2020 YEAR IN REVIEW Creativity in a Crisis - PDF
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
YEAR IN REVIEW 2020 Creativity in a Crisis
A better future for all Australians
through engagement with science,
technology and innovation.
Contents
Questacon Overview 1
Minister’s Introduction 3
Chairman’s Introduction 5
Director’s Update 7
Questacon Governance 9 QR Codes
Powered by Partnerships 13 Look out for QR codes
throughout this review
Educator Programs 19 to access extra videos,
sound and images.
Expanding Questacon’s National Presence 21 During the COVID-19
pandemic, we used
Inspiring Australia 29 QR codes to enable
contactless methods
Indigenous Engagement 33 of interacting with our
exhibits and to enable
The Online Experience 35 rich online experiences
at home.
Centre Activities 37
International Engagement 47 View a website
Questacon People 49 Watch a video
Questacon
Overview
Our vision is for a better future for We connect the nation’s complex STEM We missed witnessing our enthusiastic redesigned a decades-long visitor
all Australians through engagement ecosystem by working with partners, teen entrepreneurs as they experienced experience model, augmenting it
with science, technology and collaborators, supporters, communities, their ‘light bulb’ moments, realising with innovative digital engagement
innovation. As Australia’s National researchers, industry, innovators, they could play an important role in our and virtual tours. We focused on
Science and Technology Centre, educators and communicators to deliver future world. We missed setting off on building a better physical experience
Questacon plays a key role in helping programs and activities in person and the road to present shows, programs in anticipation of our visitors’
to build a foundation of science virtually to hundreds of thousands of and exhibitions to individuals, families, return, while staying true to our core
knowledge and understanding in Australians each year. As an influential students and teachers in their local principles – creativity, positivity, a
the Australian community. voice in the global science centre communities. passion for lifelong learning, but
community, we also promote awareness most importantly, curiosity.
Questacon operates as a specialist of the United Nations’ Sustainable As with similar organisations across
division of the Department of Development Goals. the world, Questacon faced challenging As we continue our road to recovery
Industry, Science, Energy and questions during 2020. How do you from 2020, we will continue to
Resources. As a critical asset In 2020 we closed Questacon’s physical run a hands-on learning model without engage, connect and inspire
of the Australian Government, doors to the public for the first time in touching anything? How do you bring Australians of all ages. We will
Questacon provides programs and our history. Our Centre lay quiet. We generations of families, friends, rebuild visitation and re-establish
activities for individuals, schools missed welcoming half a million visitors schools and communities together our national presence through
and communities focused on through the doors in Canberra and the without congregating? However, this progressive reintroduction of
science, technology, engineering chatter of excited school groups moving was a once-in-a-century opportunity to Questacon teams on the ground in
and mathematics (STEM) to through the galleries. We missed our reimagine the fundamentals of what regional Australia. We will help build
support economic development junior scientists coming through the we do, and how we do it. Like millions the STEM skills needed nationally
and science literacy. We engage, Mini Q exhibition and the rich discussions across the globe, we turned to science and improve teacher confidence,
connect and inspire Australians about machines and technology in our to understand how to respond to, and particularly for those teaching outside
with innovative learning experiences Born or Built? Our Robotic Future recover from, the COVID-19 pandemic. their discipline. We will continue to
and increased awareness of the exhibition. While at The Ian Potter adapt our programs and activities
importance of STEM skills and Foundation Technology Learning Centre, Our passion for science engagement, to meet the needs of students,
careers. In particular, we encourage we missed the delighted laughter of for curiosity and learning, and for teachers, families and communities
young Australians to participate in teachers as they built confidence and realising our vision remains as true of Australia, inspiring curiosity about
STEM disciplines to help build the new skills to inspire our future now as the day we opened our doors the diverse and exciting world of
workforce of the future. generations in their classrooms. in 1988. We created new content and science, technology and innovation.
1
Minister’s
Introduction
In our increasingly globalised and digital Questacon at Home helped a good energy literacy program that aims to Centre will provide facilities for
world, skills and knowledge in STEM are number of parents in lockdown, increase awareness and understanding businesses and researchers to control
crucial for supporting innovation and through online worksheets, activites of energy topics in the community satellite and space missions.
economic growth, and for our health and videos to promote STEM and engage young Australians in
and wellbeing. The events of 2020 learning at home. I am grateful to the conversations about energy. The Skills in STEM have never been more
emphasised the importance of STEM- Questacon staff who stepped up to program will promote awareness critical for Australia’s future. These
skilled young people to build our future meet national needs by temporarily of the United Nations’ Sustainable skills will propel us forward as we
workforce. Questacon plays a key role in transferring to Services Australia. Development Goals, particularly rebuild our economy and recover from
inspiring the next generation in STEM, SDG 7: Affordable and clean energy. the impact of COVID-19. In so many
fuelling imagination and curiosity in The gradual and safe return of visitors ways, even in the most challenging of
young people and helping improve to Questacon following the Centre’s As part of Australia’s Cyber Security years, Questacon has continued to help
STEM teacher skills and confidence. closure due to COVID-19, and the Strategy 2020, the Australian young people reach for the stars.
re-establishment of Questacon’s Government is investing $14.9 million
Problem-solving, design, innovation and national activities in line with to enable Questacon to develop and The Hon Minister Karen Andrews MP
critical thinking have been central to my physical distancing and public health deliver programs and activities to Minister for Industry, Science
career. I would like to see more young guidelines, will be a priority for 2021. support and implement STEM learning and Technology
people studying STEM subjects and The Questacon Mission to Mars guided in classrooms and to prepare primary,
pursuing the diverse opportunities that tour experience was a creative way to secondary and tertiary students for
are available. It is so important to foster blend exhibits, demonstrations and careers in cyber security.
creativity and hands-on learning in our theatrical performance allowing small
children, and spark interest in the world groups of visitors to safely have a I was delighted to launch the Australian
around them from an early age. Questacon experience as a first step Space Discovery Centre project, a
on the post COVID-19 road to recovery. partnership between the Australian
Despite being closed to the public Space Agency and Questacon. This
for several months in 2020 due Energy, cyber security and space are centre will act as a focus for a national
to bushfire smoke and COVID-19, national priorities and it is pleasing endeavour in building a strong space
Questacon continued to inspire and to see Questacon activity in these industry for Australia. It will highlight
engage communities across Australia areas. In partnerhsip with INPEX, the diverse career opportunities in
through digital offerings and activities. Questacon is developing a national the space sector. The Mission Control
3
Chairman’s
Introduction
Questacon’s operating environment The year saw a significant drop in participation of Aboriginal and Torres knowledge partners for their contributions
during 2020 was significantly different Questacon’s visitor numbers and Strait Islander peoples in Questacon’s and support throughout 2020.
to anything encountered before. With the travel restrictions curtailed outreach workforce and activities.
support of the Department of Industry, activities. Questacon fast-tracked its I would like to extend my gratitude to the
Science, Energy and Resources, digital engagement strategy, moving to While the pandemic required many Members of Council, Mr Eddie Kutner
and Questacon’s excellent advisors, online program and workshop delivery adjustments, I am greatly appreciative AM, Dr Gregory Clark AC, Professor Alan
partners and collaborators, Questacon to reach individuals and communities of Questacon’s efforts to continue to Duffy, Dr Ken Dutton-Regester, Ms Jamila
demonstrated strength, perseverance across Australia. Additionally, the offer high quality STEM programs and Gordon, Professor Elanor Huntington and
and creativity in moving through the implementation of the National activities throughout 2020. I would Ms Elizabeth Kelly PSM, for their valued
various challenges from bushfire smoke, Presence Strategy has seen locally like to thank Questacon’s Director, recommendations and support during
hailstorm damage and COVID-19 closure. relevant collaborations established, Professor Graham Durant AM, Deputy the year.
to address community STEM Directors Ms Kate Driver and Dr Bobby
I would like to acknowledge the engagement needs. Cerini, the leadership team, staff The Hon Karen Andrews MP, Minister
department’s significant advice and and volunteers for their continued for Industry, Science and Technology
support to Questacon in all areas of Communication, connection, enthusiasm and commitment to STEM is a wonderful role model and
business, legal, financial and safety inclusivity and diversity are so learning during such a challenging and advocate for gender equality in STEM.
operations. This assistance enabled important in Questacon’s work. In uncertain year. I would like to take this opportunity to
Questacon to continue offering 2020 there was a particular focus on acknowledge Minister Andrews’s
inspiring STEM activities during the developing Questacon’s Indigenous Questacon’s role in inspiring the next passion and commitment to increasing
year, including a COVID-safe return of Engagement Strategy, aligning with generation to pursue careers in science the participation of women in careers
visitors. The wider department has been the targets in the department’s and technology was highlighted in in STEM.
critical in supporting the nation through Reconciliation Action Plan. Questacon 2020, as the need for a strong
the pandemic, providing essential acknowledges the enormous value STEM-skilled workforce continued In response to COVID-19 and with so
thinking and planning to maintain of the millennia-old knowledge and to grow. I am greatly appreciative of many important science and technology
crucial manufacturing, health, social, practice of science by Aboriginal and The Q Australia Foundation Chair and issues, Questacon has never been
and technology research and industry Torres Strait Islander peoples, and Deputy Chair of the Questacon Advisory a more important national asset for
services for Australia. I would like to the work of Indigenous and non- Council, Mr Eddie Kutner AM, for his Australians, as a bridge between the
thank Questacon staff who, through Indigenous leaders and scientists to continued work to build philanthropic community and economic recovery.
secondment arrangements, supported develop two-way knowledge systems. support for Questacon through The Q
the work of Services Australia at a Questacon’s Indigenous Engagement Australia Foundation. I would also like Mr Leon Kempler AM
time of national need. Strategy will strengthen the to thank Questacon’s enabling and Chairman, Questacon Advisory Council
5
Director’s
Update
There is no doubt 2020 was a tough staff, volunteers and visitors. As we and New Zealand, making use of digital Australia’s Chief Scientist. Advice and
year for Australia and the world but were recovering from the hailstorm, technologies to build connections. support from Council throughout the
Questacon staff stood up and stood large bushfires came close to the city, These networks were invaluable, as we year has been greatly appreciated.
together to demonstrate creativity in resulting in a tense couple of weeks shared insights and knowledge to deal The valuable support from The Q
a crisis. In the end we had a good for staff and visitors alike. The arrival with the unpredictable situation we Australia Foundation and various
‘bad’ year. of COVID-19 changed everything, were all faced with. partners has enabled Questacon to
requiring pandemic planning and new scale up activities and deliver greater
Questacon was significantly impacted safety protocols. As the virus spread Even as we forged a path through outcomes. The collegiality of national
by several events. On 1 January 2020, throughout Australia, school group those extraordinary times, we began institution partners has been vital to
smoke from the devastating summer visits were cancelled, we ceased planning our road to recovery. Our navigating the complexities of such an
bushfires caused Canberra’s air quality program delivery in regional areas Questacon Mission to Mars guided unprecedented year.
to plummet, forcing the Centre’s and Questacon closed to the public tours were developed to offer a safe
closure for 5 and a half days. Since on 20 March. theatrical experience enabling the As Questacon Director, I am fortunate
opening in 1988, Questacon had only Centre to reopen to the public in to work with such a passionate,
ever closed to visitors on Christmas With schools closed and families July. By December, most galleries hard-working and diverse group of
Day. The teacher professional learning being told to stay home, we promoted had re-opened with modifications to staff with amazing abilities, skills,
experience, STEM X Academy, and new and existing digital content meet COVID safety requirements, and creativity and boundless enthusiasm.
the National Questacon Invention through Questacon at Home on the visitor numbers started to grow in Together we will continue to strongly
Convention had to be postponed. On website and replaced face-to-face line with public health restrictions. A support the development of STEM
the days we were open, free entry was activities with virtual offerings. Many national award for ‘Creativity in a Crisis’ skills for Australia’s future workforce,
offered to holidaymakers displaced by casual staff stepped up to provide acknowledged a strong response contributing to a strong economy.
the south coast bushfires, a gesture surge support for the Australian during a difficult year when Questacon We are looking forward to 2021 with
gratefully received by approximately Government’s COVID-19 response staff displayed resilience, teamwork a spirit of optimism and will bounce
1,000 visitors. teams. Staff adjusted to working from and creativity. back strongly after a protracted road
home and learned how to navigate to recovery.
On 20 January, a fierce hailstorm the new world of online meetings. We Towards the end of 2020 it was
caused extensive damage to continued to collaborate with other pleasing to note that former Questacon Professor Graham Durant AM
Questacon’s building, outdoor science centres in the Asia Pacific Advisory Council Member Dr Cathy Director, Questacon
exhibits, and cars belonging to region and museums across Australia Foley AO was appointed to the role of
7Questacon
Governance
THE QUESTACON advancement, engineering and STEM This Award recognised Jamila as
engagement. The Council supported one of Australia’s most respected
ADVISORY COUNCIL Questacon through the evolving digital digital and technology leaders.
landscape, promoting and advocating for Jamila’s expertise in ethical and
Questacon is supported by an Advisory
Questacon’s national presence through environmentally sustainable IT and
Council appointed by the Prime
new digital outreach activities. technology will support Questacon’s
Minister on advice from the Portfolio
emerging cyber program.Left to right: Mr Leon
Minister. The Council provides a
Throughout 2020, at the invitation of
crucial connection to the wider STEM
the Chair and the Questacon Director,
and industry communities, to support
the Council was also joined by advisors
and advocate Questacon’s remit, and
and observers including: Ms Elizabeth
to advise Questacon’s Director and
Kelly PSM, Deputy Secretary at the
department officers. Membership
Department of Industry, Science, Energy
is drawn from eminent scientists,
and Resources; Ms Margaret Leggett,
academics, business leaders and
Assistant Secretary at the Department
philanthropists who all share a
of Education, Skills and Employment;
passion for Questacon’s vision and
and Dr Cathy Foley AO, Chief Scientist
mission, and to serve as a source of
at CSIRO and Australia’s Chief Scientist
independent advice and to raise the
(from January 2021).
profile and brand of Questacon.
Council Member Ms Jamila Gordon
Following the declaration of the
was the recipient of the 2020 NSW
COVID-19 pandemic, the Council
Pearcey Entrepreneur of the Year. The
met virtually each month to provide
Award recognises established and
strategic advice to Questacon. In 2020
successful tech entrepreneurs, who
the Council increased Questacon’s
are top achievers in key competencies
access to, and work with, sectors
such as analysed risk taking, making
including space, data and cyber,
a powerful impact, and being an
artificial intelligence (AI), technology
inspiration to others.
Kempler AM, Ms Kate Driver, Dr Ken Dutton-Regester, Dr Cathy Foley AO, Professor Elanor Huntington, Ms Margaret Leggett,
Dr Gregory Clark AC, Ms Jamila Gordon, Professor Graham Durant AM, Mr Eddie Kutner AM, and
Dr Rod Kennett (November, 2019).
92020 REFLECTIONS Standing at the Well, almost every year.
start of 2021 and Questacon had to shut its
FROM OUR COUNCIL looking back, it’s doors and quickly pivot to
easy to forget online engagement. We too
that 2020 started have had our experiential
Venture capitalist Mr development, making sure in a haze of learning moment. We’ve
Marc Andreessen our platform was ‘ready smoke, anxiety learnt that there is great
correctly predicted for prime-time’ once the and devastation power in unlocking time
back in 2011, world reopened. As the as Australia’s ‘Black and space, and we also
that ‘software economy is now coming Summer’ entered its most were reminded that
would eat the back to life, we have ferocious phase. Destructive humans crave embodied
world’ and that seen enormous demand hailstorms and then experiences.
everything that could in AI applications, in COVID-19 quickly followed.
be digitised, would be areas ranging from It might be easy to write As we move into 2021, we
digitised. The same thing social distancing to food 2020 as a year best off need to work out how many
can be said about AI today; tracking, with that trend forgotten, but I think that online experiences to carry
everything that can have AI only set to accelerate. AI we can do better than that. forward into the future. And
algorithms applied to it, will. right now is like the start we should reflect on what
of the mobile phone trend The year also saw the seeds Questacon needs
As CEO and Founder of in 2007 when Apple first rise, or perhaps return, to lay so that Australians
Lumachain, I recognise that released the iPhone; its of the expert in Australia. continue to engage with
AI is the core mechanism to impact on the world is Questacon can claim science and technology. I’m
ensuring food products are just starting. I expect AI its share in laying the confident that Questacon
ethically produced, opening to drive global innovation foundations for that. Every and its people will continue
global markets to producers for the next decade, with year, tens of thousands to rise to the challenge.
in a developing world. With 2020 being a pivotal of young people and their
most of our customers’ moment on that journey. parents walk through the Professor Elanor Huntington
facilities closed during doors of Questacon. Every Questacon Council Member,
the COVID-19 lockdown, Ms Jamila Gordan year, they encounter the and Dean of the College of
we used the opportunity Questacon Council idea that we live in a world Engineering and Computer
to triple-down on product Member and CEO and that is understandable, Science at The Australian
Founder of Lumachain and that we gain some National University
measure of agency through
understanding it.
QUESTACON 2020 YEAR IN REVIEW 10As it was, 2020 continue producing and COVID-19 my washing machine.
was already collaborating on material has been a This DIY solution didn’t
shaping up to with the SBS. Transitioning disruption take away from the pride
be a special to remote and virtual beyond I felt in being a part
year for my working enabled me to anything I have of the celebration of
family. Then a develop my presentation experienced in science, industry, and
global pandemic and communication my life, and the professionals who
hit. Having my skills, and spend quality I know I’m have made possible an
first child just prior time engaging in STEM not alone! evidence-informed and
to a pandemic was both subjects. technologically-supported
challenging and inspiring. Although a small example, response to this pandemic.
As the months passed by, I am fortunate to receive
In March, the pandemic had the fear of the unknown frequent opportunities The isolation I felt in
just started to accelerate was replaced with feelings to speak about breaking lockdown in Melbourne was
across the country, with of awe at our society’s scientific discoveries helped by this connection
our new family excited for ability to come together, on TV, which presented to the outside world by
a trip to Tasmania. There organise, invent, adapt and a challenge early on in sustaining my public
was a sense of uneasiness overcome the external the pandemic as studios communication efforts. To
and anxiety among the threat. The welfare of the closed their doors almost all of those who watched
other passengers, as we community was put ahead immediately. The answer? these appearances (and
prepared to depart. The of individual interests. Very 2020 DIY… a lot certainly those who
world as we knew it had Best of all, I had a strong of research, and a little contacted me after!) I really
changed forever. The return sense of pride at seeing investment into a simple cannot thank you enough.
trip was difficult, as each the general public’s system for LED lighting, This year of enforced
state’s circumstances growing trust in science a lapel mic for audio, and isolation has made me
and restrictions continued and scientists. my phone as a camera, value ever more the
to evolve. Although I was which turned a corner of my interactions that my role
not working full time, Ms Lily Serna garage into my own studio. at the Royal Institution of
COVID-19 presented some Questacon Council Australia affords me.
challenges in my ability to Member, and SBS This was then used as the
Mathematician-Science backdrop as I hosted this Professor Alan Duffy
Communicator year’s Prime Minister’s Questacon Council Member,
Prizes for Science, entirely and Lead Scientist of The Royal
virtually, and with a Institute of Australia
green-screen draped over
11THE Q The Foundation recognises
Questacon’s proven record of
AUSTRALIA delivering exceptional, informal science
F O U N D AT I O N engagement programs, exhibitions
and experiences to thousands of
I have been Australians, locally, nationally and
extremely pleased internationally. As a result, we
to continue my are proud to continue supporting
work as Chair of Questacon to deliver programs that
The Q Australia will grow in value and impact.
Foundation
in 2020. The The expertise and generosity of our
Foundation has Board of Directors, and the backing of
ambitious goals our networks, ensures the Foundation
to support projects is well on its way to achieve its vision.
with purpose, with a vision In October 2020, we welcomed
of advancing science education and Questacon Director, Professor Graham
engagement in Australia. Durant and Deputy Director and
General Manager, Ms Kate Driver to
The Q Australia Foundation is unified by observe and contribute to our Board
a Board of Directors with big ambitions meeting, wherein the Board reaffirmed
to make a difference. It does this by its commitment for ongoing support
seeking and gathering philanthropic for Questacon.
support for Questacon, to create smart
and sustainable science, technology, The Q Australia Foundation is thrilled to
engineering and mathematic continue its work to build networks and
opportunities for young Australians and philanthropic support for Questacon to
the influencers in their lives, in order ensure it continues to spark creativity
to foster creativity and critical thinking and innovation in all young Australians
skills needed for the next generation. for many years into the future.
Mr Eddie Kutner AM
Chairman, The Q Australia Foundation
Top and bottom: Educators engaging in
Questacon professional learning programs.
QUESTACON 2020 YEAR IN REVIEW 12Powered by
Partnerships
Principal Partner Principal Partner
Shell is Questacon’s longest standing in more than 600 towns and 110 The Australian Defence Force and With the support of The Australian
corporate partner, having worked remote Indigenous communities Questacon entered into a partnership Defence Force as Principal Partner,
with us for 35 years to deliver the over its lifetime. As Principal to deliver a professional learning Questacon will deliver Engineering
Shell Questacon Science Circus Partner, Shell’s funding has program for primary school teachers, is Elementary workshops to
across regional and remote Australia supported the growth and Engineering is Elementary. This 1,000 primary school teachers in
with support from The Australian development of the program, as innovative program was developed approximately 500 schools across
National University. This program is well as supporting Questacon’s by EiE, a division of the Museum of Australia over 3 years from 2019
one of the world’s longest running coordination and bookings teams Science, Boston, to equip teachers to 2022. Despite the challenges
science education and learning to ensure the students are able with tools and skills to enable the of 2020, we connected with 478
programs, engaging and inspiring to travel to all metro, remote and delivery of fun, interactive and teachers from 273 schools across
young people and their communities regional areas of Australia. engaging STEM content in the every state and territory, using digital
in STEM through science shows, classroom. Australia’s future as a technologies to deliver workshops
workshops and teacher professional In 2021, Shell and Questacon will knowledge economy depends on when travel was not possible.
development opportunities. continue their partnership with emerging generations being engaged Teachers are provided with high
a new program, delivering STEM with foundation skills in STEM. By quality and accessible teaching
This partnership has allowed the engagement activities in regional creating awareness of the application resources and materials, together
Shell Questacon Science Circus to communities in the Northern of STEM to real world problems, with online support, to enable them to
flourish. The program has reached Territory and Queensland to build Engineering is Elementary aims to deliver the units in their classrooms.
more than 2.5 million Australians on local capability and capacity. inspire students to consider future
careers in a range of STEM fields.
13Principal Partner Founding Partner
The Ian Potter Foundation has been a As we approached the end of this The Australian National University, students to develop skills in
Principal Partner of Questacon since partnership, with the last activity through The Australian National Centre science communication with the
2014. The flagship offering, the being a successful final National for the Public Awareness of Science, public, the media and digital
Questacon Smart Skills Initiative, has Questacon Invention Convention is the Founding Partner of the Shell platforms, along with science
inspired and empowered thousands of in January 2021, the legacy of Questacon Science Circus, delivered communication project design
Australians through a suite of programs. this $7.8 million grant will remain. for 35 years in collaboration with and delivery.
We have reached more than 72,000 Questacon’s second facility will Questacon and Shell.
people across the nation through continue to be known as The Ian Having worked together since
exciting, hands-on challenges, projects Potter Foundation Technology While completing a Master of Science 1985, Questacon and The
and workshops. Innovation, technology, Learning Centre, in recognition of Communication Outreach, up to 16 Australian National University
engineering and design thinking are at the generous grant. This building graduate students deliver the Shell have seen 488 students graduate
the heart of the Questacon Smart Skills in Deakin, Canberra, will continue Questacon Science Circus program from this program and go on to
Initiative. The past year was no to be the hub for our education to schools and communities across contribute to the national and
exception as we adapted our program and learning activities for Australia. The practical fieldwork international capacity of science
delivery to engage young people during Australian students and teachers, component of the course allows communication professionals.
the revised virtual National Questacon along with exhibition development
Invention Convention in April, held as and production.
a digital event.
QUESTACON 2020 YEAR IN REVIEW 14Supporting Partner Supporting ARC Centres
of Excellence
In 2019, INPEX and Questacon began
a four-year partnership to engage young Questacon is a partner in 2 Australian
Australians in a conversation about Research Council (ARC) Centres
energy, how to use energy, and how of Excellence – The ARC Centre
crucial energy will be as a resource for of Excellence for Transformative
Australia in the future. Through this Meta-Optical Systems and The ARC
partnership, Questacon and INPEX aim Centre of Excellence for Innovations
to raise awareness of energy-related in Peptide and Protein Science.
topics and increase energy literacy These new partners are excited to
within Australian and Japanese work with Questacon to improve
communities. This partnership will public awareness and impact of their
deliver a suite of exciting and engaging research. Questacon staff will provide
activities including energy shows at science communication training and
Questacon, the Young Persons’ Energy support to researchers and students.
Dialogue youth forum, Questacon STEM Reciprocally, Questacon staff will
Futures teacher workshops, and a participate in cutting edge research,
Science Circus tour to Japan with new and work directly with researchers to
energy exhibits in 2022. create exciting new STEM stories.
Through these events and programs,
Questacon and INPEX will champion
the United Nations’ Sustainable
Development Goals, specifically
SDG 7: Affordable and clean energy, to
highlight the sustainable development
challenges faced by the global
community as we head towards 2030.
152020 QUESTACON 2019 delivery
NATIONAL ACTIVITIES
2020 delivery
Travelling exhibitions
National programs
Educator programs
Shell Questacon Science Circus In person delivery Virtual delivery
16AUSTRALIAN SPACE DISCOVERY
CENTRE: A COLLABORATION WITH
THE AUSTRALIAN SPACE AGENCY
In 2020, Questacon continued to The Australian Space Discovery Saber Astronautics, a careers and of operating in orbit, and learn about
collaborate with the Australian Space Centre is a joint government-funded information hub, and the Endeavour Australian innovations that take
Agency to deliver the Australian Space project through the South Australian Room. The Centre will inspire the next advantage of the opportunities space
Discovery Centre in Adelaide. As a Space Industry Centre and the South generation of the workforce with stories presents. The exhibition will also
division of the Department of Industry, Australian Government. It will be of innovation, curiosity and technology. explore how Australia’s expertise in
Science, Energy and Resources, Australia’s first interactive space remote operations will benefit the
the Australian Space Agency will centre, which will also house a The exhibition within the Centre next phase of human spaceflight and
predominantly operate from the state-of-the-art Mission Control is being developed from concept how Australia’s location and expertise
McEwin Building located in Adelaide’s Centre with a live link to the stage, through 2D and 3D design is advantageous.
innovation precinct, Lot Fourteen. It International Space Station. Visitors and construction, by Questacon.
will be supported by staff in Canberra will engage with the latest innovations Development of the exhibition was
to research, explore and inspire the in space technologies and expand based on the national civil space
Australian space sector. their understanding of Australia’s priority areas in consultation with the
role in national and global space Australian Space Agency. Knowledge
In December 2020, Dr Megan Clark AC, activities and missions. Partners from the space and science
Head of the Australian Space Agency, fields provided valuable input and
stood down from the top job to take The Centre, opening in the first expertise throughout the exhibition
up the role of Chair of the Australian quarter of 2021, will encompass development process.
Space Agency Advisory Board. In a joint space learning experiences in the
statement, Prime Minister Scott Morrison Space Gallery using interactive The exhibition will be divided into 4
MP and Minister for Industry, Science exhibits and programs. The Australian zones, each exploring a different realm
and Technology, the Hon Karen Andrews Space Discovery Centre will also of Australia’s activities in the space
MP announced that Mr Enrico Palermo house a Mission Control theatre with sector. Visitors will explore Australia’s
would become the new Head of the views into the Responsive Space work in propulsion and aerospace Opposite page:
page Development of the exhibition at
Agency from January 2021. Operational Centre operated by technologies, discover the challenges the Australian Space Discovery Centre in Adelaide.
17QUESTACON 2020 YEAR IN REVIEW 18
Educator
Programs
Throughout a year of uncertainty, of ‘learning by doing’, the program The overwhelming response from In 2021, we will continue to build on
Questacon developed and delivered takes a ‘hands-on, minds-on’ teachers across Australia has been the knowledge gained from these
professional learning experiences for approach to STEM education for extremely positive. Many teachers experiences, developing even more
teachers across Australia, including primary school teachers of all implemented Engineering is Elementary multi-disciplinary units of work, new
through the STEM X Academy program levels of experience. Teachers units of work in their classrooms programs and workshops to roll out
and Engineering is Elementary. work through practical inquiry and almost immediately, using the resource across Australia. Digital delivery
design challenges while engaging in kits provided at the end of each continues to support professional
Early in the year, the STEM X professional discussions about their workshop. Digital delivery also allowed learning for teachers in remote
Academy program, which is delivered application in the classroom. whole-school participation, furthering schools not typically serviced by
collaboratively with CSIRO and our drive to inspire whole-school professional learning providers.
the Australian Science Teachers With the support of Principal change regarding STEM and inquiry
Association, was interrupted by the Partner, The Australian Defence learning in Australian schools.
encroaching bushfires. We adapted Force, in 2020 Questacon delivered
and redeveloped the program to Engineering is Elementary to 478
Every person I know working
deliver impactful sessions virtually. educators in all states and territories
in science and industry always
The STEM X Academy program equips through 22 digital and 8 face-to-face
primary and secondary teachers with workshops. Face-to-face touring
tells the story of the teacher View Questacon’s
that was their inspiration. We Engineering
tools to plan and embed a STEM began in January with 2-day is Elementary
culture in their schools. workshops delivered in Callala Bay, need more of these teachers.
resources
Mt Isa, Townsville and Mackay. The Dr Cathy Foley AO,
Engineering is Elementary is a touring schedule was interrupted by 2021 Chief Scientist of Australia
rigorously researched teacher the COVID-19 pandemic, with digital
professional development program workshops commencing in May. Since We also delivered workshops to
that helps build teacher confidence then, we have delivered 22 digital pre-service educators from the
and capability in delivering STEM workshop programs, consisting of 3 University of Canberra, Central
education. This highly successful 90-minute sessions each, and have Queensland University and the 2021
program was developed by EiE, a influenced the STEM education of cohort of the Teach for Australia
division of the Museum of Science, thousands of young Australians. program, building their capacity to be
Boston. By implementing a philosophy transformative STEM educators.
19I loved the clear explanations about how to
do the activity and then how to apply it in a
classroom with students at different levels.
Primary teacher, Australian Capital Territory
The importance of critical thinking and collaborating
with teams to redesign and problem solve is something
that I need to implement in the classroom.
Primary teacher, New South Wales
Top left and right: Educators engaging in hands-on professional learning programs; Bottom: Engineering is Elementary
Top
partnership and program launch event (February, 2020).
QUESTACON 2020 YEAR IN REVIEW 20Expanding Questacon’s
National Presence
Despite 2020 being a year we could and learning as we strive to continue enduring impact. This will better internally and across government, and
not have planned for, it positioned us to meet the needs of the Australian position the work of our Centres and alongside other STEM organisations,
well to launch Questacon’s National people. The Strategy guides our programs in response to Australia’s to exchange knowledge, share skills
Presence Strategy 2020–30. The national activities with a focus on evolving STEM engagement landscape. and deliver activities.
new Strategy was developed with increased collaboration, connection
assistance of then Lieutenant Colonel and capacity-building. It introduces The goal is to maintain and extend The Strategy covers activities
Jen Harris of the Australian Army a sustained, place-based and our national reach while cultivating a including the Science Circus,
on an official posting at Questacon. cooperative approach to enable us network of locally led, STEM learning Questacon Invention Conventions,
The Strategy represents an evolution to make a greater contribution to ecosystems that strengthen the future workshops on AI, virtual excursions
in our 32-year approach to science STEM capability in specific regions workforce. An integrated approach to and professional learning workshops
communication, STEM engagement of identified need and help achieve delivery involves working collaboratively for educators.
Left: Former Lieutenant
Colonel Jen Harris of
the Australian Army
Right: 2020 Science
Circus presenter
delivering a virtual
excursion.
21AI DIALOGUE NATIONAL QUESTACON
WORKSHOP INVENTION CONVENTION
In 2020 we developed a novel way to Each year, the National Questacon
engage high school audiences, with a Invention Convention invites 25 young
dialogue workshop allowing students innovators to the Maker Space at
to discuss the morality and ethics The Ian Potter Foundation Technology
of a STEM-related topic. Drawing on Learning Centre, to meet some
research and provocations developed of Australia’s brightest minds and
for Questacon’s Born or Built? Our entrepreneurs, as part of a week-long
Robotic Future exhibition, we created a residential experience. Alumni from
dialogue workshop to discuss AI. A pilot previous National Invention Conventions
workshop was held with 372 students are invited back to support the
and 21 teachers from 9 secondary group as ambassadors and mentors.
schools from the Australian Capital Ambassadors also learn leadership
Territory. The aim was for students skills, which they can take back and
to share their fears, excitement or champion in their home region. When
uncertainty about AI, build critical it became clear in January 2020 that
thinking skills, and give them a space we would be unable to host the annual
to formulate their attitude and values residential program, the program was
to evaluate new information. Dialogue redesigned for a digital delivery. National Questacon Invention Convention facilitator, Ms Bec Szabadai, supporting participants virtually.
workshops allow students to engage
in uncommon topics such as AI, and
provide the opportunity to demonstrate
direct relevance to their own lives. The
discussion is driven by their interests,
I enjoyed thinking about The most important thing I gained from being
experiences and feelings, using their
something that I’d never an ambassador was the leadership skills that
own language and humour.
thought about before, and came with helping the delegates and learning
In early feedback, 93% of students listening to opinions I hadn’t about facilitation. It was also incredibly
agreed the workshop was relevant and heard of. It was very interesting valuable to learn how to be a role model and
interesting to them, and 94% said the and broadened my perspective. facilitate in unusual and unfamiliar situations.
workshop made them think about their Student feedback, Participant feedback, 2020 National Questacon
opinions in greater depth. An enhanced 2020 Dialogue Workshop Invention Convention
program for more dialogue workshops
will be launched nationally from 2021.
QUESTACON 2020 YEAR IN REVIEW 22SHELL QUESTACON Master of Science Communication reimagined what the Science Circus In 2020, we celebrated a milestone as
Outreach. Each year, successful could offer. An all-digital tour was Australia’s flagship science outreach
SCIENCE CIRCUS applicants are selected, through created and over the year, more program, the Shell Questacon Science
a rigorous process, to form than 6,200 students took part in a Circus, reached 35 continuous years
For the past 35 years, the Shell
the Science Circus to complete Science Circus virtual excursion. of operation. The end of 2020 also
Questacon Science Circus has travelled
their degree. Students gain saw a significant change for the
throughout regional and remote Australia,
skills in scientific presentation, This included the tried and tested program, with the involvement of
bringing science to local communities.
communicating science with the Foldable Flight workshop (where Shell as partner of the Science Circus
public, exhibition design, media students design paper aeroplanes) as coming to an end after 35 years.
The Science Circus inspires and engages
relations, and digital content well as new workshops designed by
individuals, families and schools
creation and delivery, and have the the presenters. As restrictions eased While the Science Circus will continue,
through dynamic science shows,
opportunity to work in regional and in the Australian Capital Territory and 2020 provided an opportunity to
interactive public exhibitions, hands-on
remote areas around Australia. New South Wales, the Science Circus examine how lessons learnt from
school workshops, and professional
returned to local schools, bringing such an unpredictable year, including
development activities for teachers.
In 2020, the program was forced to Questacon’s trademark, high-energy trialling new digital platforms and
cancel its first series of tours, one and high-impact science shows to fresh ways of working, can strengthen
This program also provides a distinct
week before departure. Thirteen over 14,500 students, in 51 schools engagement with communities across
educational experience for students
enthusiastic presenters swiftly in the region. Australia in 2021 and beyond.
of The Australian National University’s
Science communication is not limited by how far you
can travel, only how far your imagination can reach.
Jin Kato, 2020 Science Circus presenter
Left and right: 2020 Science Circus presenters delivering virtual excursions; Opposite page: 2020 Science Circus presenters (February, 2020).
23REACHING STUDENTS ZOOMING INTO A NEW ROLE:
THROUGH VIRTUAL REMOTE INDUCTIONS DURING
EXCURSIONS THE GLOBAL PANDEMIC
Since 2009, we have delivered programs and We joined We completed critical induction
activities through video conferencing to school Questacon in tasks such as setting up our
students across Australia, actively contributing April 2020 at information technology systems
to Virtual Excursions Australia, a network of a time most and completing work health and
Australian institutions delivering professional staff were safety inductions, but also
interactive video content. In 2020, the virtual working from engaging in activities designed
experience became an invaluable tool, as home. The to jumpstart our creativity. One
in-person school tours were cancelled and team was of these activities was to find
classrooms dispersed to home schooling. We faced with the household items that could be
responded to the challenge of maintaining our challenge of used to defend ourselves in a
remit and commitment to regions we could how to welcome zombie apocalypse! We have
no longer visit, while ensuring the safety of new members into a learned that this is a favourite
staff working under restricted conditions. group normally specialising in icebreaker activity to use when
Staff were upskilled across multiple delivery hands-on workshops, while connecting with school groups,
platforms with portable, professional quality, never actually stepping foot as the students start problem
pop-up studios to support facilitators to deliver into the classroom. solving and communicating in
sessions from multiple locations. an enjoyable way.
Creativity, openness, and trust
are important attributes to On reflection, this experience
engage young people in STEM. was a creative way to help us
The team encouraged us to feel welcomed and become
explore these qualities and contributing team members,
invented a digital scavenger despite the inability to meet
hunt as a creative way for us our team in person!
to complete our induction
tasks. The scavenger hunt Ms Louise Soroka and
took us on a unique journey. Ms Cat Nielsen
Questacon Science
Communicators
Students from Whitton Murrami Public School in New South Wales participating in a virtual excursion.
25IMPROVING to monitor and evaluate data and connects to rich data sources region, comprising a variety
observed and captured from each such as MySchools. This enables a of organisations, programs,
EVALUATION of our activities and programs. deeper understanding of the impact connections and opportunities.
AND PLANNING of our programs. The study will support planning and
In 2020, we worked on a Data Core collaboration, inform how Questacon
Comprehensive monitoring and project to enrich understanding of We also commenced a baseline can best contribute to the work
evaluation are essential for our visitation and attendance. Improving study in three focus regions: Darwin, and capacity of local organisations
commitment to quality assurance, our data capability, the Data Core Northern Territory; Gladstone/ to foster an enduring impact, and
continuous improvement and making offers a real-time dashboard to enable Rockhampton, Queensland; and provide a basis for measuring
a valuable impact and contribution. rapid reporting and evidence-based Tasmania. The study will establish change over time in focus regions
We engage and collaborate with planning. The dashboard features an in-depth map of the existing and beyond. The baseline report
external partners and stakeholders mapping of our geographic reach STEM learning ecosystem in each will be available in 2021.
Survey sample: Inspiring students’ STEM interests
Questacon Maker Project and Questacon Smart Skills participants were surveyed on
how the workshops influenced their interest in future STEM studies and careers.
By the end of the workshop, you are more interested in studying science/technology
22% 24% 20%
By the end of the workshop, you are more interested in a future career in science/technology
17% 18% 19%
Strongly agree Agree Somewhat agree Neither agree nor disagree Somewhat disagree Disagree Strongly disagree
Data from Questacon Maker Project 2018–19 and Questacon Smart Skills 2018; Total responses = 6,791.
QUESTACON 2020 YEAR IN REVIEW 26WORKING WITH It’s been great to have another EXHIBITIONS ON
group lead us in ways to
LIBRARIES THE ROAD
realign our key messages,
As we launched our National with activity-based methods Questacon showcases Australian
Presence Strategy, we increased and more deeply consider our science excellence, providing
our focus on capacity building for individual presentation style, to access to exhibitions that deliver
informal STEM providers, such as achieve much more engaging tailored, high-quality STEM
libraries and universities, and the presentations. I really like the offerings aimed at building
opportunity to engage with a range challenge and opportunity to science diplomacy and capacity in
of new organisations across key connect with young people.’ regional and remote areas across
‘build’ regions. While interstate the nation. We have a number
Participant feedback, CQUniversity
travel restrictions limited our Connect Program 2020 of modular travelling exhibitions
ability to provide on-the-ground varying in size and theme available During the COVID-19 pandemic, our
support, we developed a series of for hire and purchase. Our newest staff provided risk assessment and
professional learning workshops travelling exhibition, Australia in operational advice to help regional
via live video conference for local Space, is currently in production science centres open their doors
STEM networks. and will be launched in early 2021, with COVID-safe plans. We received
and then tour nationally from 2022. an incredible amount of feedback
As program delivery slowed in
and gratitude from our stakeholders
response to COVID-19, STEM In 2020, Questacon toured
for providing professional and
providers took advantage of this exhibitions to four regional centres.
reactive support.
time to invest in upskilling through Cobb+Co Museum in Toowoomba
tailored professional development hosted Science on the Move, while
activities. These successful Colour toured to the Ipswich Art The exhibition was very well
workshops were well received by Gallery and the Newcastle Museum. researched and designed and
staff from 10 library venues and A pilot of the Mars pop-up exhibition well suited for an interactive
one university in Queensland, the opened in late December 2020 at audience. The technical support
Northern Territory and Victoria. the Albury Library Museum, which was excellent and in particular
received high-definition digital files, the support during COVID
to engage local suppliers in printing was very good. There was a
and framing the displays. requirement for much more
detailed instructions and these
were provided.
Ms Pauline Gardener, Exhibitions
and Collection Manager,
Ipswich Art Gallery
27Top: Colour at Ipswich Art Gallery; Bottom: Mars pop-up exhibition at Albury Library Museum.
QUESTACON 2020 YEAR IN REVIEW 28Inspiring
Australia
The global pandemic has highlighted Inspiring Australia contributes to the virtual excursion training series. development activities to various
the value of establishing connections, Australian Government’s vision to Questacon shared knowledge audiences including library staff and
building networks and maintaining engage all Australians with science. and expertise with the Inspiring local event organisers. Our role as
communication internally and All states and territories are part Australia Managers and other STEM a coordinating body for the Inspiring
externally. We continue to connect, of this Network, which is driven by presenters to direct nationwide Australia Network has helped foster
collaborate and develop networks with Inspiring Australia Managers embedded traffic to various resources. a collaborative approach to STEM
members of the STEM ecosystem, with in their local community. They share engagement across the sector amid
a strong emphasis on the Network of information, administer grants and Our staff coordinated internal a challenging year.
Inspiring Australia Managers. support the evolution and delivery of network meetings to support and
state-based programs and events. grow knowledge sharing and
Thanks so much Inspiring
We play an integral role connecting collaboration, and to align
The level of interest in science Australia – the presentation
the Inspiring Australia Managers, communications with external
has increased with the was very informative with
facilitating and strengthening the stakeholders. This also supports
outbreak of COVID-19 and the helpful information and the
professional Network, and building our mission to build alternative
quarantine has left families engagement strategies. For example,
presenters obviously have
locally led, self-sustaining capability
confined in their houses eager we delivered portable Questacon a lot of experience in this
in the STEM sector.
for STEM interactive content. exhibits to regions in the Northern area. I look forward to the
Ms Carla Eisemberg, In 2020, the Inspiring Australia Territory when we were unable to tour next 2 sessions.
Inspired NT 2020 Managers united to focus on ensuring our regular, in-person workshops. With Participant at an online
collective impact, including co-funding the support of the Inspiring Australia presentation by the Inspiring
and developing a successful online network we delivered professional Australia Network
29NATIONAL SCIENCE National Science Week published 18
DIY science activities, which were
WEEK 2020 accessed more than 60,000 times.
Activities included backyard astronomy,
In 2020, National Science Week was
weather observations, bio-blitzes, and
launched online for the first time ever.
a rocket-themed coding playground
Minister for Industry, Science and
about building applications. The content
Technology, the Hon Karen Andrews
was developed to encourage hands-on
MP, launched the week at an event
science engagement, when physical
co-hosted by Science and Technology
events were unable to take place.
Australia (STA) and Questacon. The
Minister, Questacon’s Director, Professor
The 2020 National Science Week
Graham Durant and STA CEO, Ms Misha
ambassadors included marine science
Schubert, were joined by 5 researchers
student and test cricketer, Ms Alyssa
for ‘Science Saving Lives’, in a 60-minute
Healy, Gardening Australia’s, Mr Costa
forum looking behind the scenes of
Georgiadis, Professor Emma Johnston,
Australia’s COVID-19 response.
Dr Karl Kruszelnicki, and 3-time
space shuttle astronaut and former
National Science Week events in 2020
Administrator of the National Oceanic
were mainly registered and hosted
and Atmospheric Administration, Dr
online. Between 15 and 23 August,
Kathy Sullivan. Each volunteered their
people could participate in an event
time to film a total 48 media interviews,
from home, work, school or in their local
social media spots and radio community
neighbourhood. The National Science
service announcements.
Week organising committee was amazed
by the creative ways event owners
celebrated science this year, by hosting
virtual tours, webcasts, talks, DIY
experiments, quizzes, citizen science
and competitions.
Visit the
A total of 1,211 public and private National
events were registered. Out of 822 Science Week
website
public events, 627 were held online.
National polling indicated that more than
1.1 million people attended a National
Science Week event during the year.
QUESTACON 2020 YEAR IN REVIEW 30You can also read
