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

Curriculum Links

  • Level 5 - 6 Integrated STEM, Science, Mathematics, Technology, Design & Technologies, and Critical and Creative Thinking 
Teacher Resources
 

Time Action
10:15 am - 2:15 pm
  

Location

Cranbourne Gardens
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Recommended year level

Year 3 to Year 6

Price

$33.00 Per Student

Notes

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