In a bid to future-proof the industry, Engineers Australia’s Queensland Division has gathered like-minded organisations together to collaborate, communicate and establish the framework for how we ensure that students from Prep to Year 12 gain the exposure they need to develop a passion for science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects.
Roundtables have been held in both Brisbane and Townsville, with the most recent forum in Brisbane covering a wide range of topics. One such topic includes the “Advancing STEM education in Queensland State Primary Schools” initiative, which sees schools that are currently being provided with payments of $25 per student in 2018 increasing to $108 per student in 2021.
In a nutshell, this funding will allow schools to source the resources they need to teach STEM subjects from universities, industry, or external providers. In alignment with Engineers Australia’s core values, it is up to the schools to focus on sourcing sustainable resources.
It must also be noted that student-teacher professional development has been highlighted as a key area of focus.
Additionally, Engineers Australia participated locally during National Science Week in Griffith University’s Gold Coast ‘Science Pop-Up Festival’ which was attended by hundreds of STEM-inspired students.
Held on Sunday 19 August, the participants gained real-life exposure to elements of the engineering world where the youngsters designed and tested (and in many cases re-designed and re-tested) a hoop aeroplane.
And to help put wider smiles on faces? The further the entrant’s plane flew, the better the prize became.
A special mention must be made to Engineers Australia members Joshua Leach and Sonja Basson for their enthusiasm and assistance on the day, and for their help inspiring youngsters to make the link from STEM education to potential careers in engineering.
Continuing to be engaged in this space is crucial as the focus shifts towards preparations for the Department of Education’s 2018 STEM Teacher Symposium next week where the engineering flag will be flown and further roundtables are expected to be rolled out in 2019.