Science Mate OpenFlexure Workshops
Empowering tomorrow's scientists through hands-on open science

We're Science Mate, an Australian company based in Melbourne, passionate about making hands-on science accessible to everyone. We believe the best way to learn science is to do science—to build, experiment, and discover with your own hands. That's why we're bringing open-source scientific tools like the OpenFlexure microscope to curious minds across Australia through engaging workshops and educational programs.
Why workshops?
We know the OpenFlexure microscope has huge potential in education. At first, we thought that meant diving straight into schools. But after a few pitches, we realized that cramming an intensive build into a tight school schedule just wasn't feasible.
So, we pivoted.
Instead, we targeted spaces where curiosity thrives without time constraints—STEM-enthusiast parents, homeschooling families, inquisitive libraries, and vibrant community makerspaces. These audiences have the flexibility and eagerness to immerse themselves, experiment, and truly engage hands-on.

1. The Game Plan
We designed a three-hour power session to assemble the microscope from start to finish, fitting neatly into standard library slots. In practice, it stretched to about three and a half hours, including a short break. To streamline things and prevent mishaps with delicate components, we pre-assembled the camera and optics modules. This freed up more time for the core build—and crucially—for actually using the finished microscope.


2. Build, Demo, Repeat
We quickly discovered that bundling too many steps at once only led to frustration and fumbles. The better way? Slow, steady, and side-by-side.
We built right alongside participants—tools in hand, one step at a time. First, we demo. Then everyone follows. One tool, one task, no pressure. Before long, microscopes begin to take shape—piece by piece, coming to life in their hands.
3. Wins & Watch-Outs
✅ Wins
Participants had a blast, gained tons of knowledge, and walked away with a fresh awe for optics and practical open science. That triumphant instant when someone snaps their first image and grasps, "I built this myself," is pure magic.
⚠️ Watch-Outs
Three-plus hours is a long haul. It’s rewarding, but you can feel attention start to dip toward the end. So we’re now exploring ways to break it up—shorter sessions that combine to build the full microscope, with room to add cool extras like 3D printing or programming the microscope. Plenty of potential here, and we’re just scratching the surface. If you have any ideas, we’d love to hear them!
4. Next Steps
We’re trialing a one-hour “taste-tester” workshop using the pocket-sized Matchboxscope. It’s already resonated strongly with homeschooling families looking for a quick, fun STEM experience.

It’s a great entry point—easy to run, low lift, and a perfect way to introduce open science in a playful, bite-sized format. For those who want to go deeper, we’ll keep building out the segmented OpenFlexure workshop as the natural next step.
5. Big Picture
If you hand curious kids quality parts, clear guidance, and a splash of patience, they’ll build something incredible. Watching them realise they’ve built a research-grade microscope from scratch is truly special.

We’re excited to keep running these workshops, improving them, and seeing where they take us. If you're keen to host one—or just want to know more—get in touch. We’re always up for a fun adventure.
Michael Brown
Science Mate
michael@sciencemate.com.au
sciencemate.com.au
