THE Stage 3 students of St Joseph’s Primary School (SJPS) at Laurieton are addressing real-world problems through the STEM MAD program.
The initiative encourages students to apply Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) learnings to make a difference (MAD) in the world by acting for social justice and the common good.
Throughout Term 1 and 2 the students have participated in project-based learning opportunities, culminating in the creation of a 2.5 minute video presentation, with the potential to participate in both state and national competitions.
Armed with their completed projects the Stage 3 students hosted a STEM MAD school expo on Friday, 25 July, showcasing their innovation, creativity and collaboration to younger peers and visiting grandparents.
Among the ideas presented was the “Koala Conservation App” created by Airlie, Chloe and Laura.
This clever creation utilises programmed microbits to alert drivers when they are approaching an active koala, acting as a preventative measure similar to speed cameras but for wildlife protection.
Another project, “Coastal Flow” developed by Bob, Wil, James and Jack, features an ocean bracelet equipped with a tracker and panic button.
This device could potentially save lives by sending distress signals to designated numbers and nearby coastal rescue teams in emergency situations where drowning is a risk.
Drawing on the impact of the recent flooding of Taree, Lincoln, Willem, Harry and Gideon created “Hydro Health”, a flood safety kit.
This kit includes portable sandbags that expand upon contact with water, a water filtration system to ensure safe drinking water, and coded microbits that alert nearby emergency responders, such as SES workers, in times of crisis.
Mrs Fiona Hayward, the Leader of Inclusion at SJPS, said the program sparked curiosity, fostered collaboration, and instilled a sense of purpose in the Stage 3 students.
“This semester we have been working on entrepreneurial education and the program has been fantastic,” said Mrs Hayward.
“The children had to first identify a real world problem, linking it to the Catholic social teachings and the Global Sustainable Development Goals.
”They then had to think critically and creatively to develop a solution for that problem.
“All of the kids are engaged, they have been talking about their projects at home over the dinner table, they have been excited to come to school and the parent feedback has been great.
“Its real learning.”
By Kim AMBROSE
You can help your local paper.
Make a small once-off, or (if you can) a regular donation.
We are an independent family owned business and our newspapers are free to collect and our news stories are free online.
Help support us into the future.
