Students learn science from local Indigenous people

A new science initiative in 20 schools will connect the Western Australian Curriculum to Aboriginal knowledge.

Students will learn about science from local Aboriginal people — on country and in the classroom — following the official launch of the new initiative.

The Two-way Science Initiative will be implemented at schools in the Perth metropolitan area as well as the Kimberley and Goldfields–Esperance regions. It is expected to expand to more public schools in the future.

Staff from 20 schools will participate in professional learning featuring immersive workshops on country, which were designed with local Aboriginal communities and organisations.

Cultural and ecological knowledge is then taught by local Aboriginal people to students on country and in the classroom.

The Two-way Science Initiative will help build understanding and respect for Aboriginal histories, cultures, people, knowledge and experiences while strengthening the wellbeing and learning outcomes for Aboriginal students.

“This is a wonderful initiative and I am thrilled to see students at Western Australian public schools getting the opportunity to learn more about Aboriginal people’s in-depth understanding of Western Australia,” said Aboriginal Affairs Minister Stephen Dawson.

“As a government, we are committed to working with Aboriginal people, to help everyone better understand some of the world’s oldest cultures, and this new program is a fine example of that.

“Importantly, this initiative aligns with the state government’s commitment to Close the Gap, particularly around education and learning targets and our commitment to keep language and culture strong.”

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/sebastianbourges