STEM

What is the subject about?

"The aim of the iSTEM course is to promote the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics through the study of technology, engineering, skills and mechanics. Students will learn to use a range of tools, techniques and processes, including relevant technologies in order to develop solutions to a wide variety of problems and challenges". (pp 11 iSTEM syllabus).

The Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) course is geared towards students who have an interest in learning about scientific and mechanical concepts, through inquiry, problem solving and project-based learning methods.  This means being able to work in teams, design experiments to test hypothesis, make mistakes and present findings to an audience are very desirable personal traits and an advantage in this course. 

What will I learn?

Students will learn to:

• solve a variety of real-world problems through investigations of technology and engineering

• learn how to formulate, test and modify hypothesis

• use hardware and software technologies to collect, organise and analyse data

• use basic coding to manipulate wireless devices in designing for space (eg Deep Space, Mars Rover, etc) 

• use research techniques to develop design ideas by testing and experimenting; develop a project proposal, a design specification or design brief in response to a real-world problem

• carry out experiments to demonstrate basic STEM principles in strength of materials, material properties, fluid mechanics, electricity & magnetism, thermodynamics, aerodynamics, electronics, motion, and surveying (including GPS) 

• build mechatronic components using a variety of electrical and mechanical componentry including making various robotic devices using pneumatic or hydraulic device

• draw in 3D using CAM/CAD applications

How will I be assessed?

Students will be assessed under the following criteria:

• Knowledge and Understanding

• Problem solving

• Research

• Skills

What should I consider before choosing this subject?

You do not have to be an excellent mathematician or scientist to study STEM, but you should enjoy studying science, mathematics and learning about technology based solutions to problems. You should ideally enjoy making things, breaking things, testing ideas and hypothesis and presenting your ideas to others.

Also, an enjoyment of working in teams to find solutions to problems using open ended methodologies such as project based and designed based learning is desirable.  

You might find yourself in a high-demand career such as (to name but a few):

• Engineering (eg aeronautical, electrical, etc) 

• Data and digital technologies, ICT and innovation

• Big Data and Analytics

• Coding and graphical design 

• Mechatronics and robotics

Ideally in the study of STEM you should always expect that "failure is always an option" (Adam Savage).