More than 70 secondary school students are set to discover why science is becoming an increasingly popular choice of study for prospective 2004 Central Queensland University students.

Students from throughout Central Queensland will explore various areas of science and technology when they take part in the Siemens Science Experience from January 20-22 at CQU Mackay and Rockhampton.

Environmental Science lecturer and event co-ordinator in Mackay Judith Wake said the Year 10 students will complete a variety of hands-on activities that should give them an insight to how the knowledge gained through texts and classroom experiments is applied in real-life situations.

“This year Environmental Science was amongst the most popular choices for students seeking places at CQU in Mackay, so the secondary students are being given a chance to explore a range of disciplines relating to environmental studies as well as other fields of science, engineering and technology,” she said.

“All the activities stem from various programs taught at CQU and allow the students to understand the requirements of various professions." Coordinator of the Siemens Science summer school in Rockhampton Sheila Jeffery said the summer school would provide valuable experiences and opportunities for the region’s young people.

“Science and technology is an integral part of our lives and the role of science is becoming increasingly more important,” Mrs Jeffery said.

“The aim of the program is to develop and foster the interest of young people in science and technology. Programs like Siemens Science Experience are important in providing inspiration and motivation for students to pursue a career in the many varied fields of science and technology.” A varied and exciting program of hands-on activities has been developed for the summer school – activities students wouldn’t normally get to do at school. Laboratory-based activities include the testing of unknown substances for the presence of various chemicals, solving an engineering problem, assessing fitness, and heart and lung function, and trying some nursing and hygiene practices.

Fieldwork will entail surveys of local mangroves and testing the campus lakes for water quality.

Students will use the latest technology to complete activities relating to digital image manipulation, animations and video. Students in Mackay will also see how technology is used at the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music.

In Rockhampton, general medical practitioner Dr Leigh South and veterinary surgeon Dr Greg Muir will be guest speakers during the event. Dr South will impart to the students the ‘The joys of being a GP’, while Dr Muir will speak about life looking after our animal friends.

Sponsors for the statewide event include Siemens, IT Skills Hub, Rotary International, Science Teachers Association of Queensland, Science Schools Foundation Incorporated, Young Scientists of Australia, Department of Education and Department of Innovation and Information Economy.