What makes us curious about the world, and why is asking questions so important to science? These were some of the ideas explored during a special encounter with Dr. Gabriel León, Chilean scientist, writer, and science communicator, who visited Colegio Concepción on Wednesday, October 14th, as part of our Science and Technology Week celebrations.
Following his earlier encounter with students from the Junior Area, Dr. León participated in a second session, this time with students from the Senior Area. While the first presentation focused on his personal journey from scientist to writer, this conversation offered a different perspective, inviting older students to reflect on the role of curiosity, observation, and questioning in the development of scientific knowledge.
The activity was organised through a collaboration between the English Immersion Plan, led by Mr. Marcos Riveros, and the Sustainability Committee, led by Ms. Iowanna Maltés. Both encounters were made possible thanks to the financial support of the Parents’ Council, whose contribution reflects the important role families play in the school community and the value of working together to create meaningful educational opportunities for students.
Throughout the presentation, Dr. León explored how scientific discoveries often begin with something seemingly simple: a question. Observing an everyday phenomenon, questioning an established explanation, or trying to understand something unfamiliar can become the starting point for scientific investigation. His reflections encouraged students to recognise that science is not simply about knowing answers, but also about learning how to ask meaningful questions, examine evidence, and remain open to new ideas.
The encounter also included a space for students to ask questions and interact directly with the scientist, reinforcing the importance of dialogue and curiosity in learning. Rather than presenting scientific knowledge as something distant or reserved for specialists, the conversation invited students to see critical thinking and inquiry as skills they can develop in their own academic journeys.
As part of this special visit, books written by Gabriel León were given to participants in both sessions, allowing students to continue exploring his work beyond the talks. We are also happy to share that our school library has added several of his publications to its collection, including La ciencia pop, ¿Por qué olemos mal?, ¿Qué son las emociones? y otras preguntas raras que hago a veces, and ¿Qué son los mocos? y otras preguntas raras que hago a veces. These books are now available for students to borrow, offering new opportunities to explore science through reading and discovery.
For our Senior students, this experience was an invitation to reconsider the importance of curiosity in their own learning. Through initiatives that connect different areas of the school, the English Immersion Plan and the Sustainability Committee continue to create opportunities for students to engage with science, culture, and communication in meaningful ways.
We invite our school community to revisit the highlights of Gabriel León’s visit and continue the conversation through his books, now available in our school library. After all, the questions raised during a talk do not have to end when the presentation is over. Sometimes, they are just the beginning of something worth exploring.
