ASELL for Schools aims to develop laboratory learning activities (LLAs) infused with contemporary science practices, contexts, and structured to foster student engagement and to model inquiry-based learning.

The ASELL for Schools – Victorian Node team works with schools and teachers providing professional development aimed at enhancing science learning through laboratory learning activities. With the inclusion of investigations in each of the VCE sciences, students will, more than ever, need to have strong science inquiry skills at Year 11 and 12. Junior science curricula need to be structured to ensure the sequential development of these inquiry skills.

Teachers and schools were invited to join the ASELL for Schools project and work with scientists, academics, and science educators to build laboratory learning activities and develop laboratory teaching skills from 2015 to 2018. Workshops were held across Melbourne and in the regions. See the Workshops page for the list of Workshops.  You can access the workbook for each workshop (these include 2 laboratory learning activities each).  Many of the laboratory learning activities are also presented in the Laboratory Learning Activities page.

If you would like more information please contact Peta White <[email protected]>, Kieran Lim <[email protected]>, or John Long <[email protected]>.

The ASELL for Schools Team in Victoria

Associate Professor Kieran Lim (Node Leader)

Kieran Lim has been teaching chemistry for over 30 years. He is interested in developing better ways of helping students, who are weak in mathematics confidence, to learn science. For example, he explores how to make better use of spreadsheets and calculators. He is also interested in hands-on learning by doing in small groups. He has been known to dabble in forensic science. Kieran is the recipient of an Australian Award for Teaching Excellence in the Physical Sciences and Related Studies, and the Fensham Medal for Outstanding Contribution to Chemical Education.

Dr Peta White

Having enjoyed life as a science teacher and curriculum consultant, Peta is now exploring life as an academic.  Her passion is sustainability/environmental education although she now finds joy in science education.  This includes infusing contemporary pedagogy, current science research, and research practice into science education which brings a sense of mystery, problem-solving, and potential to the learning experiences of students. “Science is a great way to engage students of all ages”.  Peta has been using ReMSTEP projects to reconceptualise aspects of her science teaching – including multi-media digi-explanations, scientist connections to develop teaching and learning sequences, and engaging with local teachers about contemporary science ideas to infuse into Science Week.

Dr John Long

Dr. Long originally trained in physics at the University Of Michigan (Flint) and in materials science at the AC Spark Plug Division of General Motors Corporation. He graduated in 1987. In 1995 he completed a PhD in physics at Monash University in Melbourne. Since 1995 he has been a lecturer at Deakin University, teaching physics, materials, and electronics. He is an award-winning expert in distance education. His research interests include materials science and analysis; and engineering education.

Ian Bentley (Project Officer)

After many years as a science teacher and educational administrator in state, Catholic, and independent schools in Victoria, Ian spent 10 years at La Trobe University as a Lecturer in Science Education.   He is now an educational consultant working with a range of organisations and is also employed as a Sessional Academic in the School of Education at Deakin University. At Deakin Ian teachers a variety of teacher education units and is also the Project Officer for ASELL.