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Together, we're connecting classrooms, communities and technology.
The vibrant colours of Alcoota School in the remote community of Engawala stand out in contrast to the dry red dirt around it.
Inside, students are getting hands-on with 360-degree cameras. They're using their creativity, problem solving and critical thinking skills in a new way. It's the first time they've experienced technology-focused learning of this kind.
This is Beacon. It's the BAE Systems Australia program that introduces young people to emerging technologies. It's building their digital skills through coding, robotics, augmented reality and virtual reality.
The program is also active at the neighbouring Harts Range School, 90 kilometres down the road in the community of Atitjere.
In both remote communities in central Australia, Beacon is also helping keep the students engaged and present in the classroom.
"The best thing I have seen about the delivery of this program so far is how well the kids have engaged,” says Nicole, our Community Investment Lead.
“Students that typically disappear midway through the day and don't come back, are in fact returning while this program is being run.”
“They're hands-on and they're fully engaged. They are excited to be at school and that's the best outcome we could have expected."
Nicole - Community Investment Lead
Looking out for our neighbours
Close to the communities of Engawala and Harts Range, Jindalee Operational Radar Network (JORN) technology is helping to keep our country safe.
This technology is supported by engineers, technical specialists and other professionals here at BAE Systems Australia.
A key element of the Beacon program’s success is the ongoing support provided by our teams based nearby at the JORN Radar 3 sites.
Their involvement began long before the first workshop. They have been collaborating with school staff and community members to ensure the program will be relevant and meaningful for local students.
Engaging with and supporting Indigenous communities near our sites is built into our Reconciliation Action Plan.
Bringing our experienced STEM professionals into the classroom, it gives a valuable opportunity for students to connect the technology skills they are developing with real-world careers. It also helps them explore opportunities beyond their community.
Solving local challenges, one byte at a time
What makes the Beacon experience meaningful is the way the program connects technology to the students’ own lives.
What makes the Beacon experience meaningful is the way the program connects technology to the students’ own lives.
The students develop solutions to real sustainability issues affecting their communities. This approach encourages the students to think deeply about local challenges so they can explore how technology could be used to create positive change.
In one example, students photographed their community and used the images to create virtual reality scenes. They then deployed environmental sustainability robots throughout their community to care for those spaces, exploring how technology could help look after their local environment.
Throughout the program, students embrace the opportunity to experiment with modern technologies and collaborate with their peers.
For many students, it's their first experience using 360-degree cameras, creating an augmented reality project or stepping into a virtual reality environment.
“Watching their confidence grow over the course of the program was a powerful reminder of the importance of providing access to STEM education, regardless of location.”
Tyson - STEM Outreach Educator
Creating opportunities for young people to explore technology should not depend on where they live.
At Alcoota and Harts Range schools, Beacon is bringing those opportunities into the classroom, helping encourage stronger engagement and more consistent attendance.