Issue 3, 2007
Science & Technology
Macquarie and NSW DET launch Science Partnership
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NSW DET Director-General Mr Michael Coutts-Trotter and Vice-Chancellor Professor Steven Schwartz with Peninsular Community of Schools students at the Science Partnership Launch. |
A project designed to positively influence young people's attitudes towards studying science, technology, engineering and mathematics subjects (STEM) was launched by Macquarie University and the NSW Department of Education and Training last month.
Known as the Science Partnership, this project involves the Peninsula Community of Schools - Narrabeen Sports High School, Pittwater High School, Barrenjoey High School and Cromer Public School - and Macquarie University who will work together to develop and implement innovative teaching and learning practices within STEM curriculum areas.
Some projects have already begun:
- Teachers, academics and students are developing science, engineering and technology research projects for Year 9 students
- Twenty Macquarie students have been trained to be peer tutors to these high school students
- An offer has been made to a PhD candidate to examine current attitudes of primary and secondary school students towards studying and working in STEM areas.
At the launch of the Science Partnership Macquarie University Vice-Chancellor Professor Steven Schwartz and Director-General of the NSW Department of Education and Training Mr Michael Coutts-Trotter also signed a Memorandum of Understanding to formalise the collaboration between the two organisations.
"Success in science is vital to Australia's prosperity, and a supply of scientists, engineers and technicians is critical to our country's future," said Schwartz.
"Unfortunately though, young people across the country are turning away from science at a time when we know that science and technology will play an increasing role in our lives for decades to come.
"Macquarie University, the Peninsula Community of Schools and the Department of Education and Training are taking this very seriously, and the Science Partnership is an example of how we can develop some positive initiatives to turn young people on to science."
Coutts-Trotter said the Science Partnership was a great example of academic cooperation, which would yield significant educational and professional benefits for young people at primary, secondary and tertiary levels.