feature
chevron and CSIRO celebrate milestone achievements in living STEM program's second year
Launched officially in August 2023, Living STEM empowers primary and secondary school teachers by providing them with training and resources to integrate First Nations' scientific knowledge into STEM education, fostering a richer and more inclusive learning experience.
Living STEM's primary focus is to make STEM subjects more relatable for students, thereby enhancing engagement, improving educational outcomes, and cultivating stronger partnerships with families and communities. The program spans a diverse range of scientific disciplines, including chemical, earth, physical, and biological sciences, integrating hands-on projects developed collaboratively with local schools and communities.
Throughout 2024, Living STEM continued to gain remarkable momentum, culminating in the successful second CSIRO Living STEM Showcase event held in Dampier in November. This event served as a platform for more than 100 educators and school staff to present and showcase the various indigenous projects implemented in classrooms during the year. Attendees experienced a vibrant and culturally-rich event featuring cultural demonstrations, dances, and performances that deepened the connection to land and cultural heritage.
The showcase event featured insightful presentations by indigenous science champions, showcasing exemplary projects that bridge Western Science with Indigenous knowledge. One example of this was when Lorraine Williams and Annie Risk from Larrakia country in Northern Territory showcased how they had created an indigenous seasonal calendar. This was followed by an activity by Irene Hayes from Onslow school mapping out a seasonal calendar specific to the Onslow area.
Clinton Walker – facilitator and CEO and Founder of Ngurrangga Tours, then took the group outside for a workshop on how to make rope from spinifex. Teachers then exchanged ideas on curriculum concepts that could be transferred to the classroom from this particular exercise such as the role of friction, tensile strength and sustainability of resources.
proud to partner with CSIRO for the living STEM program
“Living STEM plays an important role in encapsulating the benefits of learning from the world’s oldest continuing living culture, fostering a deeper connection between First Nations’ people and school children across Western Australia."
CSIRO Director Education and Outreach, Ruth Carr, highlighted the program's use of Two-way Science principles developed with Aboriginal desert schools. This approach allows students to explore STEM subjects that value and connect with their cultural identity, resulting in increased engagement and enthusiasm for learning.
Living STEM is part of Chevron and CSIRO’s commitment to supporting reconciliation and fostering future skills in STEM education. By celebrating and respecting diversity and history, the program contributes to the broader goals of reconciliation and innovation as integral components of the nation's identity.
Chevron is proud to be a part of this transformative journey, and looks forward to continuing its support for the Living STEM program in 2025.
