Limitless Learning in Space Science

In response to a student survey about their learning, the Science Faculty is launching a new Elements course, Space Science.  Physics teacher, Scott Robertson, along with two Year 12 students who have helped shape this course, explain what students can expect. 

Mr Robertson, “There has never been a more exciting time to launch a Space Science course. With projects such as the Mission to Mars, the return to the Moon in Project Artemis and the James Webb Telescope, there is a huge amount of excitement and global awareness surrounding space exploration. With the involvement of SpaceX to service the International Space Station and the rapid progress made in developing space tourism, it is obvious that space exploration is no longer the exclusive domain of the governments. In future, it will require significant collaboration and involvement from the private sector. There is also the exciting prospect that anyone could potentially be an astronaut.” 

“The new Space Science course will allow students to come up with their own inquiry questions, which they will then be able to explore in detail by utilising skills, techniques and knowledge from each of the STEM subjects.”

“The study of space exploration forces students to ask deep and philosophical questions such as: Is life possible elsewhere in space? Could we colonise another planet? Can we predict what will happen to the universe in the future? Answering these questions requires an interdisciplinary approach, and students will be able to plan their own methodology in an attempt to answer them.”    

Joseph Lau, Year 12, Da Vinci, said “We collected student feedback, asking the younger years what they want to study and they told us they want to learn more about space. It is really exciting that this course is available in response to what we [the students] are interested in.” 

“I would love to learn about extraterrestrial life and life elsewhere in the universe and its impact on Earth. I watched an interesting Stephen Hawking documentary and I would like to know more.”

Sean Lee, Year 12 Nansen, said “I would like to know more about the colonisation of space and if it is possible and what a one way ticket to Mars costs – not just financially.”

Director of STEM, Joanna Burgon, said “Often space is taught through the lens of Physics but this new Elements course allows students to direct their learning and take a more interdisciplinary approach.” 

“Students will consider aspects of Biology, Chemistry and Physics, as well as the ethics and economic impact of space travel.”