Design Challenge
Program Overview
Bees with Backpacks enables students to explore the relationship between bees and food security by creating a bee friendly environment.
Program Registration
Curriculum Links

Science

Technology

Engineering

Arts

Mathematics
Year Level
Year 7-12
Duration
6 Weeks
1x Tech School Day
Prework
Not Applicable
Industry Focus
Scientific and Technical
This design challenge is being run across the Tech Schools Network in conjunction with the CSIRO and includes a comprehensive learning program co-designed by Tech Schools, CSIRO’s Data61 team and local beekeepers.
Students will learn about the science of bees and bee colonies, environmental factors that affect hive health, discover CSIROs smart hive technologies, and use data from the CSIRO Bees with Backpacks project.
Unlike other design challenges, this program runs in class over the course of Term 2, with individual student teams able to book into a one day design session at the Tech School during week 9 to build their prototype. The top team submission to the Tech School will then be given the opportunity to pitch their ideas to CSIRO, Tech Schools, Beekeepers and community stakeholders.
Success Criteria
- Collaborate effectively to create
solutions to identified problems - Consider a range of tools, technologies
and specialist equipment
Capabilities
- Critical & Creative Thinking
- Personal
- Social
- Ethical
- Design Technologies
Skills Focus
- Collaboration
- Communication
- Problem Solving
- Innovation
Partners



Technology Skill Up Sessions Available

Digital Design
Using industry current software students will learn the art of illustration design. From line and shape tools, to gradients and collage creation. Illustrations can also be used to create paths for laser cutters and CNC routers.

Computer Aided Design
3D Modelling using industry current software to design virtual prototypes prior to physical production using 3D Printers or Computer Numeric Control machines

Sensor Technology
From automatic doors to step counters, sensor technology is widely used across society. The sensor technology skill up will provide the skills required to create fixed or wearable sensor devices to meet the determined design requirements.