Helping young students understand real world STEM applications

STEM Together is a program designed to encourage underrepresented students into science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) by building their confidence, capability in 21st century skills, and connection with STEM.

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STEM camps covered topics such as marine biology, agricultural science, space technologies, 3D printing, genetics, robotics and climate change.

21st century skills such as curiosity, problem solving, critical thinking, creativity, innovation, teamwork, and communication, are increasingly in demand and will be essential for today’s children to progress in a digital world and prepare for the jobs of the future.  

Currently, girls, Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students, those from lower opportunity areas, and those from regional and remote areas are all underrepresented in STEM subjects and career pathways, impacting on the diversity of STEM talent. These students have fewer opportunities to engage with STEM and how it applies in the real world.  

To help build these students skillsets for the future, CSIRO developed the STEM Together program, a targeted set of initiatives created to encourage students and their supporters (think parents, teachers, elders) to discover possibilities in STEM and ignite their interest in pursuing STEM subjects and careers.  

 

Future Shapers  

The STEM Together program has a tailored initiative for children in Years 5-10 called Young Future Shapers, where participants have the opportunity to attend a multi-day STEM camp or a local learning adventure to explore their interests and discover how STEM can be applied in the community and in industry.  

The stories of Agnes, Jordan and Millie are proof that the program’s approach is helping students feel more curious, engaged and supported with STEM, and that it has the potential to be replicated for children of any age.  

Agnes' story

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Agnes fell in love with astronomy in Kenya while stargazing with her dad. She’s one of 25 students from around Australia selected to take their interest in STEM further.  

Agnes got to look through a telescope for the first time ever at a STEM Together Future Shapers camp. Agnes also met like-minded kids, explored science research and careers, and heard from experts in the field. 

Jordan's story

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Jordan wanted to dig deeper into palaeontology. The program facilitated a VIP tour for Jordan and his friends to Flinders University'sPaleo Lab.

He also wanted to understand the campus experience of Indigenous university students, which the team facilitated with a yarning circle. This traditional Indigenous Australian practice involves a respectful and open sharing of stories, knowledge, and experiences in a group setting and can build cultural safety for Indigenous students. 

Millie's story

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Millie is passionate about marine biology and ending plastic waste. Through the program, she got a personalized success plan to help her create a marine biology mini-lab. It included a GoPro and Bathyscope for underwater exploration digital microscopes to analyse the microplastic content in beach samples and various marine specimens and slides. 

STEM Together by numbers 

A comparison of pre- and post-program surveys of participants in the 2023 intake showed:  

  • 100 per cent of respondents increased their understanding of how STEM can help their communities 

  • 91 per cent increased their awareness of different areas of STEM study and career options 

  • 90 per cent increased their capability with 21st century transferable skills 

  • 80 per cent increased their level of interest in STEM 

  • 80 per cent increased their level of connection with peers to share their STEM interests with 

  • 70 per cent increased their desire to study or work in a STEM-related career