University of Newcastle showcases best practice in science and innovation teaching

Thursday 29 June 2006

Two prominent University of Newcastle initiatives have been noted for their best practice approaches in science and innovation technology teaching at a national forum in Sydney being held today and tomorrow.

Dr John Holdsworth, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, will present today on the initiative the University of Newcastle is applying in photonics to meet a serious projected skills shortage in the area.

"Photonics is about optical fibre communication which is the way of the future. All of our computer access, our phone calls, in fact all modern telecommunications will be linked through fibre optics - and that's just the tip of the iceberg in terms of potential applications," Dr Holdsworth said.

"Responding to projections indicating a shortfall in people trained to work in photonics in the next three to ten years, the University of Newcastle established photonics as a major in our Bachelor of Science degree program for 2006.

"This strategic, timely response to an emerging trend is a good example of best practice. Through advanced simulation programs and traditional instruction, the University of Newcastle is producing graduates that are ready to be employed in this growth industry."

Professor John O'Connor, School of Mathematics and Physical Sciences, will present tomorrow on the nationally recognized Science and Engineering Challenge.

Developed by the University of Newcastle's Faculty of Science and Information Technology and Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, the Challenge takes science and engineering problems to Year 10 students. The students compete in a range of challenges including building bridges, making catapults, navigating virtual mazes and decrypting codes. Also targeting a projected skills shortage, Professor O'Connor said the Challenge was designed to change misconceptions about what a career in science and engineering involved. Until participating in the Challenge, students are not usually aware that such careers rely heavily on creativity, innovation and team work.

"Last year more than 10,000 students attended the Challenge - this year it will grow to 12,000. Our approach is successfully inspiring students to continue studies in Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics beyond Year 10."

The Challenge, which won the Engineers Australia National Engineering Excellence Award in 2003 for the best engineering project in Australia, is supported by local communities through Rotary International, Engineers Australia and the Department of Education, Science and Training.

Dr Holdsworth and Professor O'Connor are presenting at the Science and Technology Forum being held at the Macquarie University in Sydney today and tomorrow.

For interviews with Dr John Holdsworth or Professor John O'Connor contact Kate Robinson on 4921 5061.