Minnis Journals

2019 (2)

sTeAm - A bald man in red, green and blue
The idea of this article shows how we can extend Art into the STEAM domain. I will use an example lesson from my Media class to give students a better understanding of how image manipulation software represents colours for digital portfolios. Read more

Promoting engagement and more importantly retention of girls in STEM
There are a diverse range of barriers and drivers that inhibit or enhance the engagement and retainment of girls in STEM-related pathways. The drivers often vary depending on the barriers that arise. The diversity of these barriers vary from country to country and for girls of different backgrounds. This issue deserves dedicated research to be completed within the Australian context to best identify the specific barriers that exist for girls in this country, and the key drivers for engaging Australian girls. Through the Fellowship research, observations were made around the key challenges and strategies required to engage girls. Read more

Editorial - Are we running out of STEAM?
Well, no. Obviously. I would be out of a job and all you teachers would have nothing to read. But this issue, I take nepotism to the next level and chat with the students that make up my extended family of teachers around Australia.
Only my daughter had actually heard of STEAM ... and that was because I coached her. Read more

Digital tool smashing – Learning can include more than APP smashing!
So, your class has mastered Book Creator for writing a story to share with a real audience, they rock at using Do Ink for green screen movie making and they are all over SeeSaw for recording their learning. It’s time to integrate a few quality apps to take it to the next level.
App Smashing is the process of students utilising a core of quality apps that complement and enhance each other to create inspiring and engaging ways that not only demonstrate their learning but showcases it. Read more

Nepotism Two – Spawn of Nepotism
Remember Nepotism One? (link) I talked to a number of teachers – who just happened to be current and retired teachers from Primary and Secondary across two states and in three kinds of school system. Now, be prepared for the sequel. I’m asking children from my family how much they know about STEAM. Read more

News – Activities in STEAM ahead
Tours of the Bendigo Tech School. Check out Bendigo’s newest STEAM facility, before I do a full write up on it here.
Search for the next Tech Girl Superhero. Part of the Tech Girl Movement, in the competition girls from 7–17 years in Australia and New Zealand form a team and enter the competition. They are then matched with a female tech mentor who meets weekly with them for 12 weeks. Teams identify a problem in their local community to solve, then research and document a solution. Read more

Twits – Dr Linda McIver
I have been following Dr McIver for a few years now. She is passionate about education and a huge advocate of STEM/STEAM in schools.
How long have you been on Twitter?
Nine years. I joined in 2010.
Why did you join?
Do you know, I don't even remember? I didn't use it much for a long time, but over the last few years I've ramped up my engagement to connect with people who are interested in the same things, and it's become hugely valuable to me. Read more

Creative workshops featuring Nintendo technology heading to schools nationwide
In an Australian-first, Nintendo Australia have launched a new nationwide primary school program, combining Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Labo with STEAM.
Compatible with Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Labo allows users to make DIY cardboard creations called Toy-Con, including a Fishing Rod, Piano and RC Car, as well as play games with these Toy-Con creations through a mix of physical and digital experiences. Read more