Mission possible: A day of Science, Fun and Collaboration

Abstract

Primary students in rural localities rarely have the opportunity to visit exciting investigative centres like Questacon, Science Works, Zoos, or Museums because of the city locations. Yet, we know that educational experiences of this type are crucial because they give students the chance to engage with science in very different learning environments to the normal classroom. The good news is that with a little organisation and a few helpers, it is possible to create an exciting day of 'investigative science' for the students in your own school regardless of its location. In Armidale, a northern regional community of New South Wales, approximately 160-200 Year 6 students from all the local schools annually participate in a day of scientific problem-solving and investigation. The day is organised by one of the K-12 schools with teachers at the school acting as group leaders. They are aided by a team of volunteer Bachelor of Education (primary) pre-service teachers from the local university. Collaboration is the name of the game with all participants benefiting from the experience. The cost to students is $10.00, which is used to defray the costs of the meals and resources purchased for the day.