Innovative Robotics Program Sparks STEM Interest Among High School Students

In an ambitious initiative aimed at fostering interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers, a new study is engaging high school students in coding and robotics. Conducted by the Australian Catholic University (ACU), the program targets Year 10 students, particularly those from low socio-economic and refugee backgrounds, to evaluate whether hands-on experience with technology can stimulate a lasting passion for STEM fields.

The study, which commenced in July 2025, includes 40 students from various schools in Western Sydney, such as Bankstown Senior College and Caroline Chisholm College, who participated in a week-long crash course on robot operation using drag-and-drop block coding on electronic tablets.

According to Dr. Walayat Hussain, Associate Professor of Information Technology at ACU and one of the study directors, "The jobs of the future will require familiarity with robotics and artificial intelligence. Without this training, young people may face diminished job prospects." This assertion aligns with findings from the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority, which reported that only 57% of Year 6 students achieved the science proficiency standard in 2023, a modest increase from 54% in 2006. Furthermore, only 54% of Year 10 students met the standard in 2023, a slight rise from 50% in 2018.

Participants, including students like Ahmad Elbashety, who fled Gaza and resumed his education in Australia, expressed that the program has provided them with a clear career path. Elbashety noted, "I didn’t know much about robotics or programming, but now I really enjoy it. In the future, I hope to become an engineer or maybe even a maths teacher to inspire other young people." His sentiments were echoed by fellow student Isabella Sukkarieh, who aspires to become an engineer, stating, "I will need to design products and use programs like the ones we’re using here to prove that the product works."

The immediate feedback from students indicates a positive shift in interest toward STEM careers. Aliyah Chilly, another participant, highlighted her newfound interest in robotics, aspiring to introduce these skills to younger generations. "I feel like it’s something important for kids to experience," she said.

As the study progresses over the next nine months, participants will be tasked with completing surveys and projects to assess the longevity of their interest in STEM fields. The federal government has supported the initiative through educational grants to fund the necessary technology, including the coding tablets and robots.

This initiative represents a crucial step in addressing the stagnant progress in STEM education outcomes in Australia. By providing engaging, hands-on experiences, educators hope to inspire a new generation of tech-savvy individuals ready to meet the challenges of an increasingly digital future.

In conclusion, the ACU's study showcases the potential impact of practical technology education on fostering interest in STEM careers among high school students. As technology continues to permeate various sectors, programs like this are essential for equipping young people with the skills needed for future employment opportunities in a rapidly evolving job market.