Facilitating agency in learning through design thinking in STEM

Five of Carey’s Year 10 students recently participated in the 19th BrainSTEM Innovation Challenge. Mentored by Dr Nilupa Herath, Lecturer in Infrastructure Engineering at the University of Melbourne, the students enthusiastically explored ‘Options for channelling water within Central Australia.’ Over 12 weeks, they engaged in collaborative research using the five stages of design thinking: empathising, defining, ideating, prototyping and testing. Their findings were presented to a general audience, including parents, at the Royal Society of Victoria. During their presentation, they emphasised the value of embracing failures and overcoming challenges through critical thinking and teamwork, ultimately advancing scientific impact.

Additionally, 10 Year 8 Carey students participated in the BrainSTEM Schools Energy Challenge, hosted at Carey’s Kew Sports Complex. Other participating schools included Ivanhoe Grammar School and Mentone Grammar School. The challenge encouraged students to collaboratively brainstorm solutions for the sustainable use of energy worldwide, employing LEGO and scientific communication skills. Participants had the opportunity to hear from industry professionals and judges from the energy sector and were encouraged to ask questions. The event concluded with an array of LEGO prizes.

The BrainSTEM initiative has proven to be an invaluable experience, fostering a holistic approach to education that equips students to navigate future complexities.

Furthermore, eight of Carey’s Year 10 students enhanced their problem-solving, design thinking and communication skills at the Engineers Without Borders event held at the University of Melbourne.

They presented practical solutions to improving transportation for Torres Strait Islander communities living on Saibai Island, Queensland. Designs for the proposed prototypes incorporated factors such as sustainability, cost, required knowledge, technical feasibility and positive impact on community. Students were also able to interact with current university students and industry experts, gaining insights into university life, subjects and career pathways in engineering.

Pearl Fernandes
Middle and Senior School STEM Teacher