Science Investigation Awards
The Science Investigation Awards are just one element in PICSE’s national program of activities designed to build relationships between school students and local scientists and employers in primary industries. The Awards were introduced into the UNE PICSE repertoire of opportunities for science teachers and students in 2009. In that year there were 27 student projects, which were judged by 6 scientists. In 2011 there were 106 projects judged by 25 scientists. UNE PICSE has been thrilled to see the level of sponsorship for this event grow in accordance with the increasing number of student projects. Sponsorship has increased from $400 in 2009, to over $4,000 in 2011. Every dollar of sponsorship is directed entirely towards the students and schools with award-winning projects. We thank the national sponsors Dow AgroSciences, the Grains Research & Development Corporation and Woolworths, along with our local sponsors Armidale Central Rotary Club, UNE Marketing & Public Affairs, Walcha Council, East West EnviroAg, and Dr Hans Graser.
Who can enter?
The Science Investigation Awards are open to Students in Years 7-10.
Why enter?
The Science Investigation Awards are a great way to do some real-life science, on your own or in a team.
You’ll gain valuable skills, solve problems, work with other students, meet new people, learn a lot and maybe even win some cash prizes!
How do I enter?
Students enter the Science Investigation Awards by completing the registration form (download from the link to the right). Only registered projects are eligible for display and prizes. Contact Science Investigation Officer, Susanna Greig on phone (02) 67732809; 0457562680 or by email susanna.greig@une.edu.au or Carissa Green on phone (02)67732894; 0437781135 or email cgreen24@une.edu.au
Investigation
Students complete their investigation in their own or school time between February August in the year of the event. Teachers are encouraged to provide support and direction and students can also enlist other people as scientific mentors.
Report and Display
A final written report and poster display is completed before the event. Display boards are provided following registration into the event. Contacting Science Investigation Officer, Susanna Greig on phone (02) 67732809; 0457562680 or by email susanna.greig@une.edu.au
Judging
Displays and reports are judged at the Science Investigation Awards by judges from industry and the community. (The event is held at the University of New England, Armidale. Students must be present to interact with judges to be eligible for prizes.
Presentation of Prizes
Prizes and awards are presented at the awards ceremony following the day’s judging. All students receive a certificate of participation and cheques and winning certificates are delivered to schools for presentation at Assembly
Students who have completed UNE PICSE activities have offered the following feedback:
- “To future students I would say just do it! The experience is worthwhile! You will meet lots of great contacts and this experience changes ones view on what vocations are available within the local agricultural science industry”
- “This PICSE experience has provoked me to think more about my university choices, my future career path and where I would like to end up”. It has also given me the motivation to do well in my school subjects this year, before I complete my HSC”.
- “Thanks for the experience I am now seriously considering an agricultural science career and this is because I can now see the range of great options”.
