We ignite the spark of discovery into the fascinating world of science. Through our scientific and educational activities, we encourage the use of imagination and the motivation of expanding one’s abilities in order to DREAM, THINK, and DISCOVER
מכון דוידסון - הזרוע החינוכית של מכון ויצמן למדע

About Us

The Davidson Institute of Science Education is a non-profit organization that serves as the educational arm of the Weizmann Institute of Science. We believe in connecting people to science, and therefore we initiate, organize and operate a wide range of educational programs. We strive to be a professional epicenter for students, parents and the general public, as well as for teachers and academics, in both government and education.

Our Vision

  • That science is for everyone

    Mathematics is not just a collection of numbers - it can be optical illusions, three-dimensional logic games or even magic. Although astronomy is a complex science, one can enjoy meteor showers, lightning or an eclipse - all it takes is using your eyes and an open heart. We believe everyone can relate to something in science, even the youngest of souls.

  • There are no limits to curiosity

    We all possess a natural desire to know and explore. We want to understand how our environment works without knowing how to formulate a research question, or wonder about the composition of materials without being experts in that field. We are drawn to unanswered questions and are thirsty for knowledge. At the Davidson Institute of Science Education we believe in this curiosity and that it must be developed.

  • Human capacity is our greatest national resource

    Israel is known as the "Start-up Nation", and rightly so: we are one of the countries with the highest rate of high-tech entrepreneurship in the world, relative to our population size. We believe in encouraging students to choose science subjects at school, to continue to raise future generations by the same values of curiosity, adventure and passion for technological advances.

  • Knowledge is an advantage

    A society that understands science, thinks science and is motivated by science is more successful, more advanced and more developed economically. We believe that understanding the scientific rationale behind all aspects of life, from consumerism to education and to health, will improve the quality of life of society as a whole, as well as each person in it.

How we do it

  • Programs for schools

    We strive to enrich the learning experience for students and teachers alike, through programs that provide scientific tools and resources in addition to those that already exist in school. Other programs invite students and teachers to break their regular routine and participate together in activities at the famous laboratories at the Weizmann Institute of Science, the Garden of Science Museum as well as practical workshops at the Davidson Institute of Science Education.

  • Excellence programs

    For gifted and talented students we have developed special programs that are both integrated as part of the existing curriculum and/or offered as a supplement. The purpose is to raise the standard of learning and develop the skills for new research and a deepened knowledge in the sciences. All of this reinforces both students and schools to value the existing educational system.

  • Teacher training

    We provide a supportive professional community that offers teachers training, guidance, counseling, and enrichment on any subject in science and technology education. We offer the most advanced and updated library facilities, database resources and education material, which contributes to the Institute being one of the major factors in the country fostering professionalism, excellence and growth in science and math teachers.

  • Empowering students

    We use science and technology as a tool for social education; to empower children and young adults through developing their skills of rational thinking. In doing so they acquire more life skills such as teamwork, exploration, learning and critical thinking. Integration through a learning framework empowers students by contributing to strengthening their confidence and self-esteem, which also highlights their achievements and personal standings.

  • Online Activities

    We want to bring science to anyone who wants it regardless of time or place. We run programs, classes and online courses that use self-paced learning, combined with training and mentorship from staff at the Davidson Institute of Science Education. Some team members also meet face to face to promote the virtual experience and integrate it into a rich social experience.

  • Competitions and Science Camps

    For several years we have hosted and mentored students in our youth village at the Weizmann Institute of Science with different competitions and camps, which last from two days to one month. These events allow participants to really delve into material, to experiment in actual research laboratories over an extended period of time, as well as participate in social activities which increase their motivation and leave them wanting more.

  • Science for the General Public

    The Davidson Institute of Science Education, whether inside or outside our laboratories – is always looking for the best platform to share with you, the public; lectures and demonstrations on the most fascinating, intriguing and relevant topics. We also actively maintain a content-rich site that includes articles, essays and videos in a variety of fields that is always accessible to everyone, anywhere and at any time.

  • Garden of Science

    At the Garden of Science Museum we invite visitors to touch, play with and explore exhibits and the scientific phenomena behind them, and thereby connect to science in the most direct and fun way, all on their own. In addition to the fixed exhibits, the Garden of Science offers changing exhibitions, science festivals and workshops for children during school holidays.

Management

Executive Board Members

  • Prof. Alon Chen: President, Weizmann Institute of Science. Chairman of the Board
  • Mr. Avraham Bigger: Managment Consultant and Chairperson of Industrial Companies
  • Mr. Ido Dissentshik: Chair Emeritus, Weizmann Institute Executive Board
  • Prof. Avishay Gal-Yam: Weizmann Institute of Science
  • Mr. Shimshon Harel: Chair, Weizmann Institute Executive Board and Chair, Israeli Friends of the Weizmann Institute of Science
  • Dr. Ronen Mir: Director, Schwartz / Reisman Science Education Centers
  • Prof. Nirit Dudovich: Weizmann Institute of Science
  • Tamir Kadishi: Weizmann Institute of Science
  • Dr. Tzipi Landau: Public representative, Member of the board of directors of the Levinsky Academic Center
  • Prof. Ron Milo: Dean of Educational Activities, Weizmann Institute of Science
  • Mr. Haim Rousso: Audit Committee
  • Prof. Maya Schuldiner: Weizmann Institute of Science
  • Dr. Shirin Natour Hafi: Ministry Of Education

Science education research

The Davidson Institute develops innovative, state-of-the-art content and models in a wide variety of aspects of STEM education, regularly published and presented in international journals and conferences. We are proud to contribute to the global professional arena of STEM education, as presented in the following list of publications.

List of studies
William “Bill” Davidson (1922-2009), a businessman and philanthropist from the USA, was a staunch supporter and promoter of Jewish education in the United States and of fostering science education in Israel. He initiated the foundation for the establishment Davidson Institute of Science Education.

Bill Davidson served as president, chairman and CEO of Guardian Industries, one of the world's largest manufacturers of architectural and automotive glass. He was also owner of several North American professional sports teams and a member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

As a businessman, philanthropist and prominent member of the Jewish community, Davidson was able to play an important leadership role in his own modest way. He believed that a commitment to quality education along with effective management are the best tools for promoting growth and prosperity – all of which was reflected in his numerous philanthropic initiatives.

In addition to the Davidson Institute of Science Education he established and supported educational institutions such as the William Davidson Institute at the University of Michigan, he gave to the American Technion Society to establish the world's first educational institution entirely dedicated to the international management of technology-based companies at the Technion. He also donated to the William Davidson Graduate School of Jewish Education at the Jewish Theological Seminary of America in New York and the Davidson Center at the Archaeology Garden in Jerusalem.

In 1997, the Council of Michigan Foundations honored Davidson for his lifelong philanthropic efforts locally, nationally and internationally. In that same year, he was listed as one of America's most generous donors in a New York Times article. After the Yom Kippur War, Bill Davidson was awarded the Prime Minister's Prize for outstanding philanthropic gestures toward Israel.

Mr Bill Davidson passed away at the age of 86. He is survived by his wife Karen and their children. Karen Davidson continues his work with his vision at the Davidson Institute of Science Education.

This website was built with the generous support of the William ‎Davidson Foundation in honor of Prof. Haim Harari, chair and founder of the Davidson Institute, former president of the Weizmann Institute of Science

Some leading scientists are afraid of a world controlled by thinking machines... I am more worried about a world controlled by people who think like machines.

Prof. Haim Harari founder of the Davidson Institute of Science Education

Support Us

The Davidson Institute of Science Education is a non-profit organization. Our endeavors are made possible thanks to the generous support from the Friends of the Institute and our partners. Your support helps us sustain our diverse educational activity profile as well as ensures a profound impact on the future generations of students, teachers and all science enthusiasts. Your support also allows us to have a greater influence in promoting public awareness of science education in Israel and beyond, providing scientific literacy for all. Our success depends on your help.

Contact Us

Location

The Davidson Institute of Science Education is divided into two campuses; South and North. Both campuses are located in the Weizmann Institute of Science in Rehovot. The Clore Garden of Science is located in the North Campus.

Development:
Design:
Ilai Ovadia