Using AI to clone the teacher: Cogniti in the classroom

AI is changing the way schools teach and students learn. University of Sydney Professor Danny Liu—a molecular biologist turned educator—chats to science communicator Ceana Priest about his career path to AI, and how it led him to create Cogniti, a platform that helps teachers “clone” themselves to better support student learning. Danny Liu’s journey into […]

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DNADRV Project: Collecting bug splatters for science

Far from being just road grime, bug splatters on licence plates are unlocking clues about insect biodiversity in Aotearoa. University of Auckland geneticists Dr Aimee van der Reis and Dr Richard O’Rorke chat to science communicator Ceana Priest about DNADRV—a citizen science project demonstrating how simple car rides can lead to scientific discoveries. The idea […]

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Bodies as measuring tools: Māori and ancient civilisations

Using the body as a measuring tool

Long before rulers, tape measures and the metric system, people relied on the most accessible tool they had—their bodies. Far from being rough guesses, these systems were practical, sophisticated and often exact. In Aotearoa, Māori developed intricate inenga (measurements) to guide the carving of waka, the construction of wharenui and the artistry of tā moko. […]

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The Science of Sea-Monkeys: Survival in extreme environments

By using a simple Sea-Monkeys toy, students can unlock the secrets of cryptobiosis—the remarkable survival trick that lets tiny creatures spring back to life in extreme environments. Science communicator Ceana Priest uncovers how Sea-Monkeys can help develop scientific methods of observing and experiencing the natural world.   Sea-Monkeys are actually brine shrimp—tiny crustaceans from the […]

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Wildfire scientist | Grant Pearce

Before a wildfire even begins, the ground might already be giving off warning signs. Science communicator Ceana Priest catches up with wildfire scientist Grant Pearce to dig into the science of soil moisture and how it’s helping us better predict, prepare for, and respond to wildfires across Aotearoa. From high-tech soil sensors to the fiery […]

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Science artist | Gabby O’Connor

Helping students make sense of big ideas is more important than ever in today’s classrooms. While science and art might seem worlds apart, they’re both powered by the same skills—curiosity, creativity, careful observation and clever problem-solving. Science communicator Ceana Priest chats with artist and researcher Gabby O’Connor about how blending these subjects can help grow […]

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Lake tsunamis: Discover the science behind rare natural phenomena

Lake Taupō, one of New Zealand’s most inland spots, experienced a rare tsunami in 2022 when an earthquake sent swells across the moana. Pumice washed a few metres inland—except at one beach, where a significant chunk of shoreline and car park vanished beneath the lake’s surface. Science communicator Ceana Priest examines the causes behind waves […]

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