The Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) score is given to each student after they complete their HSC or Higher School Certificate exams. This score is an average of each subject’s score and shows students how well they’ve performed. The ATAR is a ranking system developed by the University Admissions Centre, and is a number between 0.00 and 99.95, ranking students against others who have completed their HSC exams. However, what ATAR rankings do not take into account are the subjects students participate in. Instead, the score is based on the fulfilment of the 10 units given to ATAR courses.
ATAR in Universities
Due to this loophole, many students are opting for easier subjects in order to attain higher ATAR rankings to enter into universities. Many university courses are also not stating Math or Science as prerequisites for entry, even courses like engineering. One of the ATAR requirements is for students to complete 2 units of English but in this day and age, Math and Science are as fundamental to a student’s career, just as much as language. STEM subjects are important in many courses, even in those such as Architecture and Medicine.
The Importance of STEM
STEM refers to the study of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics related subjects. If universities and the school ranking system doesn’t adapt to realize the importance of STEM subjects, Australia as a whole might be left behind in comparison with the knowledge pool from around the world. Methods of teaching STEM also include inquiry-based and hands-on learning. Students learn how to form solutions based on real life situations through collaboration and activities. STEM encourages creative thinking and an analytical mind.
Encouraging STEM in Schools
Students need to be more encouraged in schools to take up these important subjects. In order to do this, people in the different industries also have to get involved and make students realize that they have to work harder to get into courses that they choose. Employers expect students to be able to become capable employees, but the school system needs to teach them that as well. Teachers and the education system also will need to up their game and set minimum requirements for standards of teaching and curriculums.
STEMmates Courses
STEMmates courses are designed to help students become interested in STEM subjects. Our courses facilitate activity-based learning and teach learners important skills that they can take with them through to their future careers.
Students learn how to link ideas and use skills learned in one subject to enhance their abilities in another. We see our courses as having a role to play to better prepare students as they progress towards HSC exams, and encourage them to choose more advanced subjects in order to get into the university courses they desire. Find out how you can get your child involved today via our Facebook and website pages.
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