Project Resources

0. General Info

Project Guidelines & Suggestions

Projects at VDSF and GVRSF should fall under 1 of 3 categories:

  1. EXPERIMENT: An investigation that tests a scientific hypothesis using the experimental method. At least one independent variable is manipulated; other variables are controlled.

  2. INNOVATION: Development and evaluation of new devices, models, theorems, physical theories, techniques, or methods in technology, engineering, computing, natural science, or social science.

  3. STUDY: An analysis of data using accepted methodologies from the natural, social, biological, or health sciences. Includes studies involving human subjects, biology field studies, data mining, observation and pattern recognition in physical and/or sociobehavioural data.

 

 

1. Does your project follow safety guidelines?    

Youth Science Canada Safety in STEM Projects

Students are expected to follow safety guidelines whether they are working on their project at home, school, or some other facility. Do any of the following concerns apply to your project?

  • Chemical safety — Are you handling chemicals that require the use of personal protective equipment (e.g. lab coat, goggles, gloves, etc.)?
    • related Youth Science Canada policies: pesticides
  • Fire safety — Are you working with an open flame, flammable materials, or a chemical reaction that produces heat?
  • Electrical safety — Are you working with an electrical current, even something from a small battery?
  • Structural and mechanical safety — Are you building something with dangerous moving parts or something that is heavy or large enough to hurt someone?
  • Biohazards — Are you working with biohazards such as bacteria, tissue samples, blood, or blood products?
  • Other

VDSF safety checklist

Safety guidelines also apply to project displays at VDSF. Your project display must pass an inspection with a safety officer before judging can proceed.

 

 

2. Does your project require ethics approval? 

Youth Science Canada Ethics in STEM Projects 

See the Ethics Approval page for more info.

Be prepared to present your completed ethics forms during the safety check at the start of VDSF. If your project involves a survey, include your Letter of Information and blank copies of the survey  and participant permission form.

 

 

3. Does your project involve the use of generative AI? 

Youth Science Canada guidelines for using generative AI in STEM Projects

Adapted with thanks from a document developed by the Calgary Youth Science Fair Committee

The difference between generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) and traditional artificial intelligence (AI) is described here: Generative AI vs Traditional AI: Understanding the Differences and Advantages (UpGrad)

If you are using GenAI in your project, clearly state its role in your project and be prepared to demonstrate your understanding of the technology, explain its limitations, and address any questions and ethical concerns. Keep the use of GenAI within the scope and objectives of your project.

To cite the use of ChatGPT or other generative AI, refer to this resource from the APA style blog: How to cite ChatGPT

 

4. How is your project evaluated? 

Projects at VDSF and GVRSF are evaluated on 3 components: scientific thought, originality, and communication. The criteria varies slightly with the type of project. 

 

What do judges look for when listening to your presentation? Check out this clip:

 

[Last updated: August 2025]