Gyroscopes, digital modelling axnd 3D printers will play a pivotal role in an upcoming science initiative by CQUniversity.
The program, scheduled for the school holidays, aims to empower young people in Queensland by connecting ancient Indigenous science with modern technology.
Proudly supported by the Queensland Government—Engaging Science Grants, CQU's STEM learning with artefacts of First Peoples project invites upper primary and secondary students to the Mackay Ooralea campus for fun science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) activities.
Leading the project are CQ University engineering lecturers Dr. Jay Sul and Dr. Lasi Piyathilaka, along with Campus Coordinator Leanne Williams and Industry Liaison Coordinator and proud Gudjala/Waanyi woman, Liz Santo.
They aim to attract 50 students in Years 7 to 10 from the Greater Whitsunday region with their innovative workshops.
"This project welcomes Indigenous and non-Indigenous young people, and it will help change perceptions through learning and experiencing Indigenous STEM knowledge," Dr Sul said.
"It's exciting to invite these student groups to work together, and grow understanding of Indigenous ancestors' knowledge, and how it translates into modern science and engineering."
In these workshops, participants dive into the aerodynamics of boomerangs by employing a wind tunnel, analysing aerofoil, lift, and drag.
Students will also conduct comparisons between traditional and advanced materials to enhance their design skills.
They will measure boomerang momentum by assessing torque, angular velocity, and acceleration, plus have the opportunity to create their own cutting-edge boomerangs using 3D design software and 3D printers.
Participants will journey to Mackay for a pair of workshops scheduled for September 18 and September 29.
Subsequently, there will be a family fun day where students will engage in friendly competition to evaluate the accuracy, flight times, and catchability of their boomerang designs.
In addition to recognising the best designs, all students will be presented with a participation certificate.
The CQ University organisers are collaborating with local schools to give preference to students from remote and economically disadvantaged regions, as well as those from Indigenous communities.
Ms Santo said these cohorts were less likely to aspire to STEM careers, often due to limited access to STEM teachers and resources.
"The Department of Education has reported that Indigenous students represent less than 1 per cent of enrolments in STEM-related courses in higher education, but we hope that by combining ancient and modern science, we can inspire our participants to get excited about STEM," she said.
CQU received $13,500 in funding to run the project, one of 41 recipients sharing funding in 2023 to help increase public participation in Queensland scientific research, under the Engaging Science Grants program.
