In this online PD session recorded on 2 June 2016, Andrea Soanes from the Science Learning Hub was joined by three guest presenters – all inspirational women working in STEM – who shared their insights into the importance of STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education and explored ways to encourage young women into STEM careers.
Speakers
Andrea Soanes – project manager, the Science Learning Hub (video part 1)
Liz Cleary – lead for the Women in STEM profiles, Ministry of Education (video part 2)
Dr Victoria Metcalf – national lead for the Participatory Science Platform (PSP) (video part 3)
Melinda Stevenson – digital technologies teacher at New Plymouth Girls’ High School (video part 4)
What amazing women and projects they are involved in. I have watched a couple of these webinars now and really enjoy them and get a lot out of them, thanks.
Teacher
This session provided opportunities for participants to interact by contributing to group thinking activities about STEM skills and careers and provided participants questions to ponder.
See links above to view the videos of this professional development session (we recommend downloading the videos) and also links below to download the:
- PowerPoint presentation
- index for the PowerPoint and videos.
Nature of science
The changing character of our increasingly scientific and technologically dependent society requires a science curriculum to match – one that will adequately prepare students for life and work in the 21st century. In setting the direction for learning, the curriculum must prepare all students to be citizens who can confidently engage with science on a personal and a societal level. It must also prepare sufficient students for careers in science.
Useful links
The Hub is rich in stories on the work of women in science. This Pinterest board features some of them.
Curious Minds from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment supports activities, projects and programmes that work with communities, businesses and educators to boost engagement between science, technology and society. The Participatory Science Platform encourages communities and scientists to work together on collaborative research projects. These projects not only have scientific value but are also relevant to local concerns and provide excellent teaching and learning opportunities for those who get involved.
The New Zealand Association for Women in the Sciences encourages women to use and develop their scientific abilities and to achieve their full potential.
The Ministry for Women's website includes a directory that identifies opportunities for girls to get exposure to science, technology and engineering.
The Eureka! Sir Paul Callaghan Awards are designed to encourage and develop young leaders within the STEM subject areas. These students hold the future of New Zealand in their hands.
This website created by two year 13 students features videos from various inspiring women working in STEM in New Zealand.
