Designed by Nature

Learn how nature can be used for design inspiration and problem-solving through STEM and biomimicry. 

Students will observe the tried and tested biological strategies and patterns of nature and design their own nature-inspired STEM ideas for a healthier planet. 

The Department of Education and Training are funding high-ability students from government schools to participate in this program at no cost through the Victorian Challenge and Enrichment Series. 

Session 1: Bio-design Introduction

Students will

• Learn examples of bio-inspired inventions and come face-to-face with the plants and systems that influenced them.

• Identify the tried and tested biological strategies of nature through guided nature observation

• Come up with their own nature-inspired ideas

Session 2: Student Design Challenge

Students will

• Become biomimics, practicing nature-inspired engineering.

• Utilise design thinking and STEM skills to apply the practice of biomimicry in a Design Challenge

Key focuses

• Hands-on learning and sharing ideas

• Adaptations

• Science and Technology

Student Experiences Include

• Distinguishing between ‘learning from’ and ‘learning about’ plants

• Exploring the function and form of plants

• Engaging in systems thinking

• Applying nature-inspired solutions to solve a student challenge (full day only)

Curriculum Links

• Level 7 - 10 Integrated STEM, Science, Mathematics, Technology, Design, and Critical and Creative Thinking