Science and Technology

Science and Technology K–6 is an integrated discipline that fosters in students a sense of wonder and curiosity about the world around them and how it works. Science and Technology K–6 encourages students to embrace new concepts, the unexpected and to learn through trialling, testing and refining ideas.

The study of science and technology develops the building blocks of inquiry and students’ abilities to solve problems. Students are provided with opportunities to develop understanding based on evidence and reason. These skills enable students to participate responsibly in developing innovative ideas and solutions in response to questions and situations relevant to personal, social and environmental issues. The learning students experience enables them to contribute to the world as active global citizens both now and in the future.

Science and Technology are linked pedagogically through their practical application that promote genuine learning opportunities for students. The application of Working Scientifically, and Design and Production skills enables students to develop a sense of accomplishment and enhance their skills in inquiry and manipulating tools and materials to produce solutions. These skills are important in preparing students to succeed in a rapidly developing technological world.

Students studying science and technology are encouraged to question and seek solutions to problems through collaboration, investigation, critical thinking and creative problem-solving. Students are provided with opportunities to apply thinking skills and develop an appreciation of the processes they can apply as they encounter problems, unfamiliar information and new ideas. These attributes are fundamental to the development of students who use evidence to make decisions and solve problems.

Science and Technology provides students with the opportunity to make meaningful connections with the broader learning outcomes of the K–6 curriculum in English, Mathematics, History, Geography, Creative Arts, Languages and PDHPE through authentic application of relevant knowledge and acquired skills.

Science and Technology K–6 develops students’ curiosity about natural phenomena and the built environment. It provides students with the opportunity to develop a sense of achievement by using the practical application of knowledge in the development of solutions. The skills and capabilities developed through the study of science and technology provide students with opportunities for skill development and a strong foundation for learning across the K–10 curriculum.

iCentre

The iCentre "provides the school community with a large, flexible learning space based on fluid design principles to support ‘collaboration, performance, creativity, interactivity and exploration, both online and offline’ (Schibsted 2005). The layout of the iCentre can look different on a daily basis depending on the range of individual, small group, class-based, or whole grade activities it accommodates at any given time. That is, the form it takes reflects the function" (Hay 2010b).

Grades are rostered to the iCentre on a weekly basis for 90 minutes to use this contemporary space to foster collaboration within the Inquiry – based learning model.

Technology 

Technology is an integral part of the modern world and allows learning opportunities previously unavailable. At St Bernard’s our student-to-computer ratio is commendable and digital technologies are embedded into our teaching and learning programmes. Computers allow a student-centred approach to learning as students are able to explore learning opportunities and research at their own pace.

In addition, each classroom has a set of iPads which create a student-to-iPad ratio of approximately 4:1. Interactive Televisions are wall-mounted in every classroom throughout the school providing excellent, high resolution display of web-based materials. The TVs also possess the capability to display the students work on the iPad's using apple TV's and mirroring technology.

STEM - SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY ENGINEERING AND MATHS 

Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics are identified as essential areas of study for Australia to maintain a high quality of life. Future prosperity depends on students studying in and across these areas in order to foster scientific and technological developments.

STEM, drawn from the four disciplines of Science (S), Technology (T), Engineering (E), and Mathematics (M) recognises the importance of this integration and its significance for Australia’s competitive future. These four disciplines are also referred to as the 'Pillars of STEM'.

NESA aims to enhance engagement in STEM by developing practical, hands-on teaching and learning programs and resources that allow students to integrate their knowledge from the pillar subjects.

It is outcome-driven learning that fosters inquiry, problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity and innovation. It fosters 21st-century capabilities and skills.

To facilitate this at St Bernards, our students in Years K to Year 6 are provided with the opportunity to undertake coding and digital technologies lessons. The students will participate in instructional lessons to understand and use a range of coding software such as Kodable, Scratch Junior, Scratch, Tynker and Grok Learning.

This will enable students to:

  • create and communicate ideas and information
  • solve problems in order to accomplish specific goals
  • recognise, analyse, and correctly use the basic concepts and elements of computer programs
  • plan, design, develop, test and debug reasonably complicated software projects such as games and animated interactive stories.

Coding is essential to help students thrive in a future driven by technology. Being introduced to coding gives students an appreciation of what can be built with technology. Knowledge of coding assists students to understand how computers work, and imagine and design new devices and services.