Students from across the City of Gosnells had a first hand look at the wonders of science and maths at Southern River College’s STEM fair last week.
Southern River College head of maths Cheryl Andrade, who organised the fair, said it was a celebration of all things science, technology, engineering and maths.
“The purpose of the fair was to introduce students to science and maths in a fun, interesting and hands on way,” she said.
“Technology, this moving ahead at an incredible pace, is underpinned by science and maths and it is about making that connection real for our students.
“Southern River College provided a range of science and maths themed activities showcasing our students’ work and interests including robotics displays, fractals, bridge building activities, catapults, a mini beast hunt with microscopes and magnifying glasses, a model generator, a scratch programming station, Mobius strip making and more.
“The highlights included a rocket launch and a liquid nitrogen smash.”
Ms Andrade said the STEM fields were important because it pervaded all aspects of life and was particularly important for young people because it would affect their career choices.
“Education in STEM is empowering as it shifts an individual’s focus from being a consumer of technology to a creator of technology,” she said.
“The support and enthusiasm that the STEM fair received from staff across the college was incredible.
“So far the feedback received from schools has been overwhelmingly positive.”
Ms Andrade said about 300 students attended from primary schools including Gosnells, Wirrabirra, Ashburton and Huntingdale.
