06 Mar 2018
Curriculum Review
Muirfield High School is conducting a curriculum review Term 1, 2018. The purpose of the review is to evaluate the curriculum and approach to whole school technology to ensure Muirfield's curriculum is rigorous and responsive. The review team will investigate whether our students' patterns of study and use of technology is meeting community expectations and rising to the challenges of the future.
The team will look at three aspects in particular:
- Subjects studied in Years 7 to 10
- STEM
- Muirfield's approach to BYOD
STEM
What is STEM?
STEM is a curriculum based on the idea of educating students in four specific disciplines — science, technology, engineering and mathematics — in an interdisciplinary and applied approach. Rather than teach the four disciplines as separate and discrete subjects, STEM integrates them into a cohesive subject based on real-world applications.
Whys is STEM so important?
"In the 21st century, scientific and technological innovations have become increasingly important as we face the benefits and challenges of both globalization and a knowledge-based economy. To succeed in this new information-based and highly technological society, students need to develop their capabilities in STEM to levels much beyond what was considered acceptable in the past." (National Science Foundation)
The Australian government want us to encourage students to study STEM subjects to help secure the nation's future in these areas of employment. They believe that starting this interest at the school level will help increase the number of students taking up STEM subjects in higher education and in their careers and help keep Australia competitive internationally in these important fields.
What is BYOD?
Student Bring Your Own Device Policy (BYOD) allows students to use personal mobile electronic devices at school, with the capability of connecting to the department's wi-fi network. Currently, Muirfield students can bring any device, however, they can also choose not to bring a device. Other approaches include families buying a specific device for their child to use at school or families purchasing any device that meets a minimum specification.
Review Process
The review team will listen to the views of students, parents and teachers through focus groups and surveys. This input is vital to the recommendations and decisions. If any recommendations for change are made, they will be for the 2019 school year or beyond.