Middle Years – Science brings students together and builds community
For many students, earning a Bunsen Burner licence is an important milestone in their science education. It builds practical skills, develops confidence in the laboratory and lays the foundation for future science studies. We spoke with science teacher, Georgina Strinavic, about why providing this opportunity is such an important part of learning at VSV.
\Why is this practical experience so important, particularly for those considering further science studies?
It gives students hands-on experience with essential laboratory equipment while developing safe laboratory practices. For those considering further science studies, it builds confidence and prepares them for practical work in senior science subjects. It also supports students in transition to a physical school, where this equipment is regularly used in a classroom laboratory, making the Bunsen Burner one less thing that is new and unfamiliar to them.
Many other milestones are achieved in this same incursion, including a student making their first visit to VSV, their first time in a school laboratory for the first time, and perhaps even their first time meeting peers in real life.
How does bringing online students together in the VSV Science Lab change their learning experience compared with meeting only in online lessons?
Meeting in the lab allows students to carry out experiments they can’t replicate at home. It also strengthens collaboration, communication and their sense of belonging within the VSV community.
What skills or confidence do you see students develop once they’re working with real equipment under supervision?
Students become more confident using scientific equipment, following procedures safely, making accurate observations, and solving problems during practical investigations. The latter is especially evident during incursions, with the students creatively experimenting as a team to overcome challenges when creating bath bomb mixtures, for example.
In a recent VSV incursion, what inspired the idea of older students leading science activities for younger students?
The idea was inspired by seeing students in my Year 10 SEL group form strong relationships and share their interest in working with children. I wanted to offer them meaningful leadership opportunities while helping the younger students learning science see positive role models who share their interest in science.
How does working alongside older students help younger learners engage with science in a different way?
Younger students often feel more comfortable asking questions and are inspired by seeing older students demonstrate scientific skills, making science feel more achievable and engaging.
What have you observed that older students gain from taking on mentoring or leadership roles?
Older students develop leadership, communication, and teamwork skills while reinforcing their own scientific skills. They also gain confidence by sharing their skills and supporting others. It was a real pleasure to witness the social confidence of one of the Year 10 leaders and how it grew so much during this new opportunity and experience at VSV.
We also spoke to Science Laboratory Technician, Tania Giarratana, about what goes on behind the scenes in making participating in science experiments from home possible.
What goes into creating and sending science kits to students across Victoria?
Science classes typically combine theory with practical laboratory sessions, where students can see scientific concepts come to life. At a virtual school, access to a laboratory isn’t always possible, so our science teachers design experiments that students can safely complete at home to reinforce the theory they are learning.
The science kits vary depending on the year level and contain non-hazardous materials required for each experiment. Preparing these kits involves a great deal of planning and organisation, from sourcing the correct materials and ordering supplies to assembling, packing and distributing them to students across Victoria, Australia or overseas. Each year, we prepare and send approximately 2,000 science kits, ensuring students have everything they need to participate in hands-on science learning from home.
How do these kits help transform an online science lesson?
The science kits help students put theory into practice, reinforcing what they have learned during their online lessons. I believe they make learning more engaging and enjoyable. When students can observe changes and outcomes for themselves during an experiment, they gain a deeper understanding of how and why scientific processes occur. It makes science more meaningful and memorable.
As someone working behind the scenes, what is most rewarding about knowing your work helps students experience science wherever they are?
The most rewarding part is knowing that VSV students don’t miss out on the practical side of science, regardless of where they live. It is satisfying to know they have the opportunity to develop practical skills and experience the excitement of experimenting, just like students in a traditional classroom. Being able to help ensure they are not disadvantaged makes the work especially worthwhile.
Contributor Acknowledgement: With 17 years of teaching experience, including six years at VSV, Georgina Strinavic is passionate about inspiring curiosity and confidence in science. She particularly values helping students connect scientific concepts to the real world and discover that they can succeed in science, wherever they are learning.
