Stem Learning

STEM at WHSC

What is STEM education?

STEM (Science, Technologies, Engineering and Mathematics) education comprises the specific knowledge, understandings and skills in each of these learning areas as well as the interrelationship between each of them. STEM education acknowledges that there are opportunities for learning to be delivered in an integrated manner that facilitates greater engagement in each of these learning areas. This approach enables skills such as critical and creative thinking, collaboration and communication to be deployed in a rich and authentic way.

STEM education in the Victorian Curriculum includes the following learning areas: Science, Design and Technologies (including Engineering principles and systems), Digital Technologies and Mathematics.

In the Victorian Curriculum, the Learning Area “Technologies” comprises two strands, “Design and Technologies” and “Digital Technologies”. The Engineering component of STEM is taught through the Design and Technologies strand and the Technology component of STEM is taught through the Digital Technologies strand. (Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority, 2017)

What will STEM education look like at Wheelers Hill Secondary College?

At Wheelers Hill Secondary College, all students will participate in STEM education at Years 7 and 8 completing Digital Technologies as well as Design and Technologies (STEM Materials). We offer electives in these areas at Years 9 to 12.

We have a partnership with the Monash Technical School with students participating in STEM programs and activities at Years 7 to 10 throughout the year.

Classes will begin to utilise our STEM centre, which is in the process of being set up with collaboration spaces and equipment such as 3D printers, laser cutters, drones and much more. We currently run STEM classes at Years 7 to 9, where programs have been developed to use the equipment.

Teachers will have STEM professional learning sessions to enhance skills and provide them with knowledge of the program and a seamless integration with their maths, digital technology, design and technology and related subjects and capabilities.

Yr 7 Digital Technologies

Yr 8 STEM Materials

Yr 9 Robotics and Coding

Kim Hewlett

Learning Specialist - STEM