Science & Technology
A science and technology rich environment for tomorrow's world
At OIS, we recognise the power and potential of science and technology. In addition to dedicated science and computer labs, we have an exciting makerspace with state-of-the-art facilities where students can come together to explore, create, and learn through hands-on projects and activities.
Welcome to Our Innovation Space
Our Innovation Space is positioned in the heart of our school and is accessible to all OIS students for class directed and cross curricular projects.
This is a collaborative and hands-on learning environment dedicated to creative problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Here, students engage in authentic, real-world learning experiences using a rapid prototyping approach: learning by doing.
Within the Innovation Space, sudents have access to an Epilog laser cutter, Makerbot 3D printer, Arduinos, Micro:Bits, Raspberry Pis, Lego Mindstorms NXT robots, electronics components and a range of tools and materials. From Primary through to Upper Secondary, the space can be booked by classroom teachers as well as being used in Digital Skills and Computer Science lessons.
Whether you’re interested in building a robotic arm controlled by a wearable human-computer interface, or fabricating a sustainable surfboard using waste cardboard and epoxy bio-resin, the Innovation Space is a physical representation of the OIS core values.
We are positioning our students for success in an increasingly technology-driven world. The Innovation Space allows them to apply their knowledge in tangible and practical ways.
- Angus Reith, Computer Science Teacher
State-of-the-art equipment allows our students to experiment, prototype and test their ideas.
This technology hub aids learning by fostering a creative and collaborative environment for fun and safe exploration.
An Upper Secondary student working on a sustainable surfboard, made from recycled cardboard boxes and epoxy bio-resin. Just one example of the many exciting prototypes created in our Innovation Space.
Digital Skills from the Word "Go"
Digital Skills is studied as a subject in Primary, and its application is utilised across the entire range of curriculum subjects to enhance and support student learning and achievement.In developing technology skills, students learn how to think about design and production and then engage in making products to solve problems.
Topics include coding and computer programming, digital literacy, the critical consumption of information on the internet, ethical and responsible use of social media and digital safety.
Discerning Users of Technology
Our students are guided from an early age on how to become discerning users of technology. We offer access to tools that allow them to communicate, collaborate, and stay organised with ease. In Primary, we provide iPads and effective classroom management platforms, like Showbie.
In Secondary, students use our ItsLearning platform, a one-stop-shop for assignment organisation, teacher communication, and academic progress tracking.
Science...at the Heart of Our Curriculum
Science is one of the core elements of the OIS academic programme at OIS. It is embedded within the International Primary Curriculum and, at its heart are units of study themed around areas of interest as diverse as “Chocolate” and “Being Fit for Life.” Each unit is cross-curricular which means that science is not studied in isolation. Rather it is connected to history, geography, technology, the arts and literacy. Students study science in different units, gaining an understanding of the nature of science as a subject and developing their knowledge, skills and understanding of specific learning objectives. Students develop ways of finding out about the living and material world and making links between ideas. Scientific methodology is taught and practiced as students learn how to know whether an experiment is reliable and valid.
More than simply an academic study of Biology, Physics and Chemistry, these subjects require practical and investigative work in Secondary. A practical approach is an effective means of illustrating and reinforcing theoretical concepts, developing an appreciation of the essential hands-on nature of scientific work, and the benefits or limitations of scientific methodology.
Practical Skills
To further develop their practical skills, students in Years 7 and 8 participate in an annual science fair to promote their own personal investigations.
Students in Upper Secondary are involved in a 3-day long project each year in which they explore a question from the different perspectives of each of the three main disciplines.
To build a greater interest in science and to encourage an appreciation of its importance, OIS regularly invites guest speakers to give lectures on science-oriented topics or careers. Students are also invited to visit science related firms in the local community.
