Designed by Nature

Description :

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 

Teacher Resources
 

Time Action
10:15 AM - 2:15 PM
  

Location

Melbourne Gardens
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Recommended year level

Year 7 to Year 10

Price

$33.00 Per Student

Notes

Minimum charge is 18 students per class. Maximum class size is 30 students.