9 December 2015: A new research centre aiming to boost the teaching and learning of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) will open its doors at the University of Canberra this evening.
The STEM Education Research Centre (SERC) will focus on developing the research that will better inform policy around learning and the school curricula.
- Primary school students will be on campus tomorrow to participate in a series of activities to develop their maths and spatial comprehension, with a variety of fun educational games, as part of the launch of the centre.
SERC, will be led by University of Canberra Centenary Research Professor Tom Lowrie. Professor Lowrie and his research team are already undertaking research in Australia and internationally, including a $2.6million project to improve the quality of teaching and learning in mathematics classrooms in Indonesia.
"STEM education is central to innovation and citizen wellbeing," Professor Lowrie said. "Mathematics knowledge and technological skills are essential for every persons long term wellbeing and health. One of the best ways to promote such knowledge and skills is developing an individual's spatial reasoning.
"Spatial skills such as wayfinding and navigating appear to be less important in our technology-rich and GPS worlds. However, these skills are important for mathematical reasoning especially associated with spatial orientation.
"Activities like orienteering are not only great fun for children, but useful in developing spatial awareness, map reading and direction," he said.
Professor Lowrie added that SERC would also investigate methods of encouraging educators to invest their passion and energy into STEM subjects to increase students' engagement in these subjects.
"Engaged teachers, empowered with knowledge and enthusiasm for STEM subjects are going to benefit their students throughout their career and hopefully pass on those same skills to colleagues as well," Professor Lowrie said.
He said SERC's work is perfectly aligned with the goals of the Australian Government's Innovation Statement released earlier this week: earmarking $62 million for STEM literacy programs and to encourage women and girls into the sector.
- Professor Lowrie is available for interview. Primary school teachers will also be available for interview on the day.
WHAT: Primary students and teachers will participate in STEM education activities with SERC researchers
WHERE: INSPIRE Centre, Building 25, Pantowora St, University of Canberra (Campus Map)
WHEN: Thursday 10 December, 10.30-11.30am
Contact the University of Canberra media team:
Claudia Doman: 0408 826 362
Marcus Butler: 0438 447 810