Published Sunday, 07 December, 2008 at 02:00 PM
Minister for Education and Training and Minister for the Arts
The Honourable Rod Welford
Indigenous science course trial underway in Gladstone
An innovative course to engage Indigenous students in science could be adopted state-wide after a pilot study in Central Queensland.
In Gladstone today for the Bligh Government’s 12th Community Cabinet meeting, Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said the Akaltye Gladstone Project combined the study of science and technology with traditional Indigenous practices.
“The program was devised by Tannum Sands State High School teacher and coordinator of the Capricornia Area Science Centre of Innovation and Professional Practice, Heather Moller,” Mr Welford said.
“Students took part in a week-long camp for Indigenous students and a curriculum unit.
“The program is based on the 5E approach to primary science teaching – engage, explore, explain, elaborate and evaluate – and has embedded Indigenous perspectives in the curriculum.
“Twenty-seven Indigenous students from 11 Central Queensland schools attended the camp this year and explored the theme of energy through hands-on science activities.
“A unique feature of the camp is that students work in groups mentored by Indigenous team leaders from local industries and organisations.
“The students also investigated how Indigenous people conserved energy through their behaviours, and how they hunted and gathered food in energy-efficient ways.
“The students also created makeshift ovens and hot water systems out of everyday objects.”
The curriculum module Akaltye – Climate for Change is being piloted at Yarwun State Schools by Years 5 – 7 and at Tannum Sands State High School with Year 8 students.
Mr Welford said the course was designed on a four-year cycle covering the themes of energy, materials, earth and space and water, and covered past, present and future sustainable practices.
Media contact: Jo Crompton on 0418 758 579
In Gladstone today for the Bligh Government’s 12th Community Cabinet meeting, Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said the Akaltye Gladstone Project combined the study of science and technology with traditional Indigenous practices.
“The program was devised by Tannum Sands State High School teacher and coordinator of the Capricornia Area Science Centre of Innovation and Professional Practice, Heather Moller,” Mr Welford said.
“Students took part in a week-long camp for Indigenous students and a curriculum unit.
“The program is based on the 5E approach to primary science teaching – engage, explore, explain, elaborate and evaluate – and has embedded Indigenous perspectives in the curriculum.
“Twenty-seven Indigenous students from 11 Central Queensland schools attended the camp this year and explored the theme of energy through hands-on science activities.
“A unique feature of the camp is that students work in groups mentored by Indigenous team leaders from local industries and organisations.
“The students also investigated how Indigenous people conserved energy through their behaviours, and how they hunted and gathered food in energy-efficient ways.
“The students also created makeshift ovens and hot water systems out of everyday objects.”
The curriculum module Akaltye – Climate for Change is being piloted at Yarwun State Schools by Years 5 – 7 and at Tannum Sands State High School with Year 8 students.
Mr Welford said the course was designed on a four-year cycle covering the themes of energy, materials, earth and space and water, and covered past, present and future sustainable practices.
Media contact: Jo Crompton on 0418 758 579