Need for increasing student engagement in science
As illustrated by the paper "Inspired by science":
"Changes in society, schooling and science itself, coupled with a lack of clarity of the purpose of science education, have produced school science programmes that are not optimally meeting the needs of any of our students – neither high achievers headed for science related careers nor the majority who need science for citizenship. Solving this problem requires a long term strategy that takes into account purposes, pedagogies, assessment practices, teacher beliefs and values, resources and the wider community." (Inspired by science, A paper commissioned by the Royal Society and the Prime Minister's Chief Science Advisor A. Bull, J. Gilbert, H. Barwick, R. Hipkins and R. Baker, New Zealand Council for Educational Research, August 2010)
By engaging students in science at any early age, we help to build a scientifically literate population essential for the future success of New Zealand industry. Identifying opportunities for student engagement in ongoing research can provide the link to draw students to a future in science.
Supporting the new 'Planet Earth and Beyond' curriculum
Earth and Space Science (ESS) is a new subject being introduced in 2012 for years 7-13, based on the Planet Earth and Beyond strand of the New Zealand curriculum. We are working with teachers to allow this expedition to be used as a "hook" to engage students in this new subject, and to develop supporting education material that can be used in subsequent years for classwork.
Learning precursor for the Mars Science Laboratory
The expedition is an excellent prequel to future learning activities to be based on the landing of the Mars Science Laboratory Rover on Mars, in August 2012.
Space education resources are not designed for a local audience
Teachers require relevant and ongoing resources and support to link student learning to the current Science Curriculum. Many of the learning materials currently used in space science classes are produced abroad, and lack a New Zealand 'flavour'.
Explore this site
Commander's Log
The commander of the expedition will keep you posted with the latest progress in the preparation of the project.