About 30 Secondary school students from across Mackay district and beyond discovered why science numbers at Central Queensland University (CQU) Mackay have increased steadily over the past 5 years.

The students participated in a hands-on and practical look into the intriguing and ever-changing world of science as they enjoyed the 2007 Siemens Science Experience at CQU Mackay last week.

This program aims to introduce new Year 10 students to aspects of science and its application in local industry, with the hope they will continue these studies in upper secondary years and at university.

“This is a fun and educational way to spend three days, meet like-minded students and do something a bit different,” said CQU lecturer and program coordinator Dr Anthony Wheeler.

“We’ve seen an increase in students enroll in science programs at CQU Mackay over the past 5 years and numbers are looking particularly healthy for 2007. This science experience gives secondary students the opportunity to discover a range of disciplines relating to environmental studies as well as multimedia, health, technology and engineering,” said Environmental Science lecturer Dr Judith Wake.

The 2007 Siemens Science Experience encompasses a range of activities that include both laboratory work and fieldwork.

“All activities stem from programs on offer at CQU and allow the students to understand the requirements of various professions before they enter Year 10 and face the challenge of subject selection for upper school,” said Dr Anthony Wheeler.

This program is organised by CQU and the Science Schools Foundation Inc., and nationally sponsored by Siemens Ltd, IT Skills Hub and Education Queensland’s Smart State Initiative Spotlight on Science. There is local support from Rotary.

Photo caption: students from Mackay district get amongst the science at CQU Mackay yesterday