A DECREASE in students studying science, technology, engineering and maths subjects has concerned a global technology powerhouse.
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Siemens identified the decline, particularly in regional areas, which was contributing to the under representation of rural students in higher education.
CEO Jeff Connolly said a 2012 Universities Australia report highlighted the level of awareness of career pathways via science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects.
“The report showed that many students who chose not to study STEM subjects did so due to a perception of uninspiring career options. They are unaware of the different career pathways and greater financial rewards available to STEM graduates,” Mr Connolly said.
“We need to use experiential learning to create more awareness of STEM career pathways for rural students.”
To encourage rural students to engage in STEM subjects, Siemens has launched a national compeititon for secondary schools.
Students can win a set of four FutuRide power generating bikes as part of the more than $100,000 in prizes on offer by creating a short creative video that answers the question – “what kind of future will you power?”
Mr Connolly said the need to stimulate interest in STEM subjects among rural students was vital for Australia.
“We know from studies that geographical circumstances significantly shape student choices in achieving a tertiary education,” he said.
“We all recognise the potential to develop more tertiary industries in rural Australia. Ideally, that’s going to require input from people with rural backgrounds who have had the appropriate STEM training.
“Now is the time we need to influence future generations of rural school children to plan for a career that transforms to a high-tech, high-value economy.”
Mr Connolly said teachers were continually looking for new ways to provide experiential learning opportunities.
“These electricity generating bikes help stimulate the student’s imagination. It helps demonstrate what they’re learning can be put into practice,” he said.
Australian cycling hero and Siemens Ambassador Cadel Evans is encouraging rural students to enter the competition.
“I remember how hard it was learning in an outback school and this is a great opportunity for rural students to win a fantastic prize for their school,” Mr Evans said.
Eighteen school have the chance to win four bikes.
The competition will run from June 23 to August 7 with winners announced during National Science Week from August 16 to 23. For more information go to www.futuride.com.au
