Rationale:

iSTEM is a student-centred Stage 5 elective course that delivers science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education in an interdisciplinary, innovative, and integrated fashion. It was developed in direct response to industry’s urgent demand for young people skilled in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

The course was developed in collaboration, and is supported by industry, business, government, and universities, ensuring that students develop future focused STEM skills. The course has a number of specialised topics, many of which are aligned with NSW State Government Priority Industries, identified in the Global NSW Strategy.

iSTEM develops enabling skills and knowledge that increasingly underpin many professions and trades, and the skills of a technologically enabled workforce. It provides students with learning opportunities to develop knowledge and skills to use the most up-to-date technologies including additive manufacturing (3D printing), laser cutters, augmented and virtual reality, drones, smart robotics and automation systems, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and a range of digital systems.

Students gain and apply knowledge, deepen their understanding, and develop collaborative, creative and critical thinking skills within authentic, real-world contexts. The course uses inquiry, problem and project-based learning approaches to solve problems and produce practical solutions utilising engineering-design processes.

iSTEM is aligned to the concept of ‘Industry 4.0’ which refers to a new and emerging phase in the industrial revolution that heavily focuses on interconnectivity, automation, machine learning and real-time data.

Aim:

The aim of the course is to engage and encourage student interest and skills in STEM, appreciate the scope, impact and pathways into STEM careers and learn how to work collaboratively, entrepreneurially, and innovatively to solve real-world problems.

Objectives:

Content:

Core Topics

Core topics develop fundamental understanding and skills as well as the application of engineering-design processes to problem-solving activities.

• STEM fundamentals

• Project-based learning

Elective topics

Elective topics develop a depth of understanding and skills in a number of fundamental areas of iSTEM. They have been designed to provide additional time for mastery before applying them to specialised topics.

· Computer-aided design (CAD)

· Critical thinking

· Project-based learning (extension)

Specialised topics

Specialised topics are themed around STEM priority industries. They develop knowledge and skills that underpin future focused industries.

· Advanced manufacturing

· Aeronautical engineering

· AgriTech

· Cyber security

· Design for space

· Mechatronics and robotics

· MedTech

· Surveying and geospatial engineering

· Sustainable transport