Teacher Professional Learning
A number of events are offered throughout the year for teachers to experience the science that is occurring in local industries. Connections are encouraged between teachers and working scientists. Teacher feedback indicates a high level of appreciation for the science that underpins many local primary industries.
Typically PICSE staff work with individual staff members, with small groups of teachers from a science department or with whole staff groups to assist teachers to encourage students to work like real scientists.
PICSE Science Education Officers are also available to talk about science based tertiary careers and to link local industry science and scientists with teachers and students.
Year 11/12 Teacher PD
Each year PICSE USQ offers year 11/12 pre-tertiary science teachers an opportunity to come together for two days to look at some of the cutting edge science being used in the region. In 2009 the PD will be based in Toowoomba on the 29th & 30th of October. The theme for this year will be “The Science of Fine Food and Wine – Molecular Gastronomy”. This Professional Enhancement will be very relevant to student learning in subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, Physical Science, the Science of Natural Resources and Environmental Science.
Science Camp
One camp is held each year for Year 11/12 students from all Toowoomba and Regional Schools. The camps are based on practical activities and real-life experiences with professional scientists, university personnel and local science-based industries. You will be given the opportunity to see how real scientists work and to look at cutting edge scientific research in university and industry.
The year 11/12 Industry Placement Scholarship is a program for Year 11/12 students interested in Science at University. The Scholarship includes an all expenses paid 5-day camp highlighting available science careers in primary industries, followed by a 5-day placement working with industry or research scientists.
School-based Activities
Time is spent in individual schools providing support for both teachers and students. The work may involve working with groups of interested and motivated students to highlight the role of science, talking about science based pathways, facilitate practical activities and provide support for students engaged in investigations or similar projects. It may also be possible to facilitate visits to schools by guest scientists.
Science Investigation Awards
USQ Faculty of Sciences PICSE Science Investigation Awards
A regional event open to all students years 5-12 with significant prizes available. Students must display high-level skills in inquiry, planning, organisation, implementation, analysis, evaluation and presentation.