STEM x Design Thinking

In a changing world where education endeavors to contend with the technical improvements and ever-growing aspect of educational requirements for our students. We as teachers have been challenged to engage more and more in the understanding of the skills and attributes that students need to acquire to be successful active participants in a global society. As a curriculum, technologies involve experiential, practical, and applied knowledge and theoretical understanding. It requires students to be autonomous and creative problem-solvers as individuals and team members. Students combine an understanding of Design Thinking, STEM knowledge, and the application of Digital technologies, as well as the ability to consider functionality, aesthetics, social, cultural, economic, and environmental issues, and industry best practices with practical processes and skills. As they do so, they reflect on and evaluate past and present technologies, their uses, and their effects on local, regional and global societies.

In an endeavor as teachers to be best prepared to guide our students through their educational journey, realising the skill sets of old were not preparing them for the future they were destined to shape. Narangba Valley State High School's STEM staff engaged Inspired Education to deliver ‘Design Thinking’ professional development to help upskill Science, English, PE, Mathematics, Digital Solutions, alongside Design & Technology Teachers.

While many of the staff believed that the prior professional opportunities, and personal application to the development of knowledge in this area, had prepared them for what was required of them as educators. A renewed passion for education and educational opportunities that had real-world outcomes came to a realisation in these staff through these engagements.

Key Outcomes

• Re-Write Curriculum For Each Subject Area towards STEM Academy Programs
• Rich Learning Areas developed, collaboratively
• More Technology Adoption & Professional Development
• Increased Passion & Accountability By Teaching Staff
• Aligned Vision With Leadership (see videos below)
• Industry Aligned Skills & Learning Experiences For Students