In today's rapidly changing world, mathematics plays a crucial role in our daily lives. Using maths critically allows us to consider complex personal and socio-political issues, such as health, the economy and the environment, says Professor Kim Beswick, Director of the Gonski Institute and Head of the...
Tatachilla Lutheran College has pioneered the introduction of an iFarm, a cutting-edge initiative aimed at advancing agricultural science and STEM education. Developed by innovators Steve and Kate Mansur, the iFarm serves as a fully computerized outdoor farm research station, featuring eight automated garden beds. These...
There are plenty of wonderful books for kids that should pique their interest in things scientific! Here are just a few of the interesting ones. Backyard Buddies by Andy Geppert, pub. Hachette, Picture Book RRP$19.99 A beautifully illustrated somewhat factual introduction to the hoppy, crawly, wriggly, buzzy,...
You’re probably already encouraging STEM at home and don't realise it, writes Rebecca Kerr Children are naturally curious. They’re constantly engaging with their surroundings and observing the world around them. As a parent and role model, you may choose to lean into their exploration and encourage...
One of the advantages of a STEM focus over traditional teaching methods is the suitability of problem-based learning (PBL) as a pedagogical approach. Through PBL, processes and knowledge from science, mathematics, engineering and technology are integrated to tackle real-world problems in situations that are uncertain, not...
The educators in this study report that children learn science in nature play long before they get to school classrooms and labs. The number of preschools pursuing learning through nature play is growing fast worldwide. However, the effectiveness and impacts of this approach is largely untested,...
Laura Scholes and Sarah McDonald report on harmful gender stereotypes— and may be keeping girls away from STEM Gender stereotypes begin in early childhood. Bright pink “toys for girls” and blue “toys for boys” are sold on store shelves around the world. In the boys’ section you’ll find...
Not every student needs senior maths, but we can make maths more engaging in the earlier school years, writes John Fischetti. In late 2019, New South Wales announced it would make maths compulsory all through school. Victoria will have an additional, easier, year 12 maths subject...
Girls score the same in maths and science as boys, but higher in arts – this may be why they are less likely to pick STEM careers. Silvia Griselda and Rigissa Megalokonomou report on their research. Last month, the Australian Academy of Science published a report...
