STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Maths) programs are always a highlight at the Centre. State-of-the-art equipment, access to inspiring science professionals, and our incredible teachers, ensure these days provide rich and authentic discovery and learning experiences.
We were excited to trial a new STEM initiative with young scientists from Stretton State College. The year six and seven students with year eleven STEM ambassadors were able to attend an extended experience for two days. This enabled time for the young scientists to integrate laboratory work with field work. Laboratory work focused on the relationship between sediment particle size, turbidity and settlement time. The corresponding field work investigated seagrass distribution and abundance with respect to water depth, sediment size and whether the sediment was biogenic or lithogenic origin. Students were tasked with hypothesising to what extent the various variables were affecting seagrass growth and develop their own complex model of seagrass dynamics in Waterloo Bay. Student models were investigated out on the bay and required creative and critical thinking at high levels to evaluate their model and hypothesis. Exploration, challenge, discovery and reflections were ongoing.