A national searchable database of both locally available and online science, technology, engineering and mathematics activities is up and running. STARportal is the nation’s first dedicated platform connecting students, parents and teachers with STEM events in their local community, as well as online activities.
It is a completely free service for users and STEM event providers, with more than 330 activities already listed.
“Science doesn’t start and stop at the classroom door – it’s everywhere. But if families and teachers don’t know about these programs, our students miss out,” Australia’s Chief Scientist Dr Alan Finkel said of the new site.
“STARportal aims to spark the curiosity of students and encourage deeper engagement with skills that are so vital to give humans a competitive edge in a technology-driven world.”
The Office of the Chief Scientist, working with Engineers Australia, developed STARportal with support from the BHP Billiton Foundation, the Commonwealth Bank of Australia and Telstra along with the Australian Mathematical Sciences Institute.
“STARportal is an example of successful collaboration between government and non-government organisations to the benefit of all Australian students,” said Engineers Australia CEO Peter McIntyre.
“The portal is a truly national resource for students of all ages that providers can update to showcase their latest STEM offerings.”
STARportal can be found here.
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