Encouraging Neuromorphic Systems Education in Schools - Promoting Neuromorphic Science in the Classroom Environment
In an exciting development for the land of the long white cloud, a groundbreaking project named Kiwrious is set to revolutionize science education across the nation. The initiative, created by Associate Professor Suranga Nanayakkara and his team at the University of Auckland's Augmented Human Lab, aims to foster a national community of young scientists who recognize the potential and limitations of scientific inquiry [1].
The Kiwrious Sensors Kit, available for New Zealand schools to register their interest via the Kiwrious website, empowers students to collect real and relevant datasets. This unique opportunity enables them to analyze, interpret, and critique data, honing their critical thinking skills [2].
Kiwrious is committed to fostering scientific capabilities for all New Zealand students, regardless of ethnicity, gender, or socio-economic status. The project's mission is to create an inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive [3].
The Kiwrious Science Experience, sponsored by AWS, Cloud9, MinterEllisonRuddsandWatts law firm, Toi Foundation, COMET Auckland, and the University of Auckland, engages students in New Zealand schools by providing a cutting-edge, evidence-based learning platform. This platform integrates augmented reality and computer science to enhance scientific understanding and computational thinking skills [4].
The interactive, immersive experiences provided by Kiwrious make abstract scientific concepts feel tangible and accessible, promoting deeper engagement and enabling students to develop key scientific and computational competencies [5]. Developed as part of the Augmented Human Lab, Kiwrious emphasizes human-centered technology designed to extend cognitive and perceptual limits, thus humanizing the learning process [6].
Kiwrious has received multiple prestigious awards, including a Silver Award for Public Good and Bronze Awards for Value of Design and User Experience from the Designers Institute of New Zealand, a Good Design Award for Social Impact, and accolades as a finalist and honorable mention in global innovation competitions [1]. These honors highlight its effectiveness in transforming science education and fostering essential 21st-century skills among learners.
Moreover, Kiwrious seeks to understand what is effective and valuable in a technology-enhanced science experience and share findings with teachers and educators. The project aspires to engender teachers' confidence in evidence-based research tailored to inform practice and innovation [7].
The Kiwrious Sensors Kit was designed in collaboration with science educator Dr Dawn Garbett. The article discussing this innovative project was written by Fiona Taimana and Dawn Garbett and published by Referencing Hub media [8]. Fast Company, Best Design awards, Velocity 100k Challenge, and Good Design Australia have also awarded Kiwrious [1].
As Kiwrious continues to gain recognition, it promises to deliver a brighter future for science education in New Zealand, equipping students with the skills they need to navigate the complexities of the 21st century.
References: [1] Taimana, F., & Garbett, D. (2021). Kiwrious: Transforming Science Education in New Zealand Schools. Referencing Hub media. [2] Kiwrious. (n.d.). About Kiwrious. Retrieved from https://kiwrious.co.nz/about/ [3] Kiwrious. (n.d.). Mission. Retrieved from https://kiwrious.co.nz/mission/ [4] Kiwrious. (n.d.). The Kiwrious Science Experience. Retrieved from https://kiwrious.co.nz/science-experience/ [5] Kiwrious. (n.d.). Humanizing Learning. Retrieved from https://kiwrious.co.nz/humanizing-learning/ [6] Augmented Human Lab. (n.d.). About. Retrieved from https://augmentedhumanlab.co.nz/about/ [7] Kiwrious. (n.d.). Research. Retrieved from https://kiwrious.co.nz/research/ [8] Taimana, F., & Garbett, D. (2021). Kiwrious: Transforming Science Education in New Zealand Schools. Referencing Hub media.
The Kiwrious Sensors Kit, designed in collaboration with Dr Dawn Garbett, enables students to collect real and relevant datasets, thereby fostering their critical thinking skills and enhancing their learning in science, technology, education-and-self-development, and learning. Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, Kiwrious is committed to creating an inclusive learning environment where students of all backgrounds can thrive, boosting their potential in the 21st century.
