June 27, 2017

Unique school camp explores STEM through Aboriginal culture

Exploring old ways in new times will be the focus of a unique student-focused program that connects Aboriginal culture to modern STEM concepts.

The Koori STEM Camp will be held at the University of Wollongong (UOW) and various Illawarra locations from Sunday 25 to Wednesday 28 June 2017. The program aims to establish stronger senses of identity, connection, pride and empowerment for participating students, engaging them with their cultural heritage through modern STEM concepts.

STEM, otherwise known as Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, currently accounts for 75 per cent of the skills and knowledge needed in the country’s fastest growing occupations, according to a recent study by the Australian Industry Group.

Twenty year 9 and 10 students will stay at the Mount Keira Scout Camp for the duration of the camp, to remain connected to Country and the major dreaming tracks of the area. Activities will take place at the UOW Wollongong campus, as well as the Innovation Campus, Sandon Point Aboriginal Tent Embassy and in the Dharrawal State Park.

Students will engage with their cultural heritage and its links to STEM through a number of workshops including Boomerangs and Wind turbines; Storytelling through Digital Media; Sustainability in the Built Environment; and Renewable Energy and the Natural Environment.

The Koori STEM camp aspires to create a strong sense of belonging for young Aboriginal students within the Illawarra to UOW.