About the program
Living STEM supports primary and secondary school teachers to embed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander scientific knowledges in the school learning program through hands-on inquiry projects to increase student engagement and achievement in STEM. The program is aimed at Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in Years 5 to 9 but provides authentic and engaging learning opportunities for all students.
In addition, Living STEM supports schools to build partnerships with families and communities to include local Indigenous knowledge in school learning programs and foster reconciliation and respect for local Indigenous culture. In 2023 the program will be delivered to participating schools in the Karratha network via a mix of online and face-to-face professional learning activities. Each school will identify a small team of 2 - 3 people including a teacher and AIEO (Aboriginal and Islander Education Officer) to participate in a face-to-face workshop and a series of four webinars.
Professional learning 2023
Face to face workshop: This workshop will cover the teaching of science inquiry in an Indigenous context, engaging with community, and using Living STEM resources and equipment. The workshop will feature practical examples of science inquiry activities.
Webinars: A series of four one-hour webinars in Terms 3 and 4 will complement the face-to-face workshop and support for teachers and AIEOs.
School visits: The CSIRO program facilitator will visit participating schools to provide tailored support to school leaders, teachers and AIEOs.
Online and phone support: Coaching and support will be tailored to individual school and teacher needs.
Annual showcase: The 2023 Living STEM Showcase will be held in the Pilbara in November 2023. The showcase will share and celebrate the practice of participating schools and communities.
Timetable
| Activity | Date | Time | Mode |
|---|---|---|---|
| Webinar 1 Introduction | Week 1 Tuesday July 18 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | Online |
| Workshop for school teams | Week 2 Thursday July 27 | 8:00am – 2:30pm | Face-to-face |
| Webinar 2 | Week 5 Tuesday Aug 15 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | Online |
| Webinar 3 | Week 8 Tuesday Sept 5 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | Online |
| Activity | Date | Time | Mode |
|---|---|---|---|
| Webinar 4 | Week 2 Tuesday Oct 17 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | Online |
| Annual showcase | Week 6 Thursday Nov 16 | 1 day | Face-to-face |
Note: the school visit from the program facilitator will be scheduled in Term 3 or 4 by arrangement with each school.
Download the Program Overview and Timetable PDF (199 KB).