The UNE PICSE Science Investigation Awards took place in Lazenby Hall, UNE on September 11.
Primary Industries Centre for Science Education (PICSE) Science Education Officer, Susanna Greig, is proud of the success the program has had in nurturing interest in science and primary industry careers in the New England North West region. “PICSE leads the development and delivery of education programs that inspire students towards science careers and help create high-calibre science graduates who are business-ready for Australia’s primary industries,” she said.
Almost 200 students from 20 schools in the region came along and presented their projects to scientists. The scientists judged and awarded winning projects on the day.
This event has grown from its humble beginnings in 2009, with 27 students and $400 in sponsorship.
The event was sponsored to the tune of $5300, which allowed for significant cash prizes to be offered to award-winning schools and students.
Students have spent months working on their projects, which include topics such as:
What makes ice melt the fastest?
Colourful Crops! Do different coloured lights affect the growth of dwarf bean seeds?
Which gender has the quickest reflexes?
What effect does soft drink have on your heart rate and blood pressure?
Herbicide efficacy
Do different kinds of music have an effect on peoples’ moods, emotions and memories?
Dog smarts — what’s going on behind those puppy dog eyes?
Sedentary Vs Active: Does a person’s level of activity affect their reaction time?
The event’s national sponsors were: Dow AgroSciences, Grains Research & Development Corporation and Woolworths
Local sponsors were: Ian Potter Foundation, Walcha Council, Armidale Central Rotary Club, Marketing and Public affairs UNE and East West Enviroag.
