STEM Education

Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)

At St Francis Xavier School students are encouraged to explore the world around them, using the General Capabilities (the Australian term for 21st century skills) that they practise and build on in their primary years. These skills include collaboration, critical thinking, creative thinking, problem-solving skills, and self-regulation skills. These skills are a set of tools that students can harness to improve and assist with their personal, interpersonal, intercultural and ethical development, in order to become the critical and creative thinkers of the future.

In STEM sessions across the school, students identify and explore a real-world scientific problem (Science), for example, 'Pollution'. They ask questions to explore the problem and use technology as part of their research or as a resource (Technology). Students then design or construct a solution to their problem (Engineering). They evaluate and interpret their data, and use reasoning to identify 'Where to next?' (Mathematics). It is also important to understand that STEM skills are integrated. 

Technology, in the hands of active and creative thinkers can be a great asset to enhance learning for all students. Technology at St Francis Xavier School plays an important role in the delivery of learning and teaching. Each classroom is equipped with a range of digital resources.

Coding

Foundation to Year 2 students have opportunities to explore Beebots (small robots), designing sequences of instructions (codes). Coding is offered to students from Year 3 to Year 6. Students learn to program sequences using block codes and binary code. Resources they use include Scratch, Makey Makey (electronic kits), Spheros, EV3s and Beebots. 

Student Use Policy

All students are expected to abide by the ICT Policy and ICT Student User Agreement, which explains students’ responsibilities when using digital tools at our school.