Agriculture is responsible for 80 percent of New Zealand’s exports and employs 143,000 people (Statistics NZ). We desperately need more people skilled in this area, and education is a key part of the solution. All schools can teach aspects of this at least to juniors, with support available. NZASE Science Communicator Mike Stone looks at […]
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In this resource, NZASE Science Communicator Mike Stone (Pākehā) and Mere Manning (Ngāti Kahungunu ki te Wairoa) explore the science and cultural perspectives of atmospheric rivers (ARs). ARs are narrow bands of concentrated moisture in the atmosphere that can lead to significant rainfall and flooding in New Zealand. The resource delves into the mechanics of ARs, their impact on the environment, and how traditional Māori knowledge and observations (tohu) are being integrated with modern scientific understanding to predict and respond to these events.
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Waka is a poignant and special subject that kaiako can explore to unpack aspects of physics with ākonga. Mike Stone, Pākehā, and Mere Manning, Ngāti Kahungunu ki te Wairoa, explain ways in which the western science of physics can be braided within Te Ao Māori knowledge of the waka.
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NZASE Science Communicator Mike Stone explains the chemistry behind a recent major chlorine explosion.
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A group of seven young women, Year 13 students at Waiuku College, reached the shortlist for an international competition to run an experiment on a particle accelerator in Europe. This is an achievement about which their school is very proud. NZASE communicator Mike Stone explains.
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NZASE Science Communicator Mike Stone explains environmental DNA, including tools schools have used with their students
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In this resource for students, NZASE Science Communicator Mike Stone summarises the many ways in which chemistry and chemists serve the community – benefiting our food, our health, our environment, criminal justice, as well as creating valuable new materials.
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Aotearoa/New Zealand has more than 80 ecosanctuaries where native species are conserved, and pests are actively managed or eliminated. There is often substantial community involvement in these projects. Ecosanctuaries aim to allow an ecosystem to recover from the ravages of humans and pests, increasing biodiversity. This helps preserve endangered species and allows the public to […]
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This resource compiles practical advice from educators who have recently undergone the process of designing and constructing new science laboratories. It highlights the challenges of aligning the visions of architects, funding bodies, and school staff, emphasising the importance of compromise and collaboration. The document also discusses the value of involving science technicians and maintenance personnel […]
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A fossil skull that recently come to light in China has scientists intrigued. The analytic methods used suggest new interpretations about the Homo lineage which scientists are currently debating. More evidence, especially from DNA, would help to resolve some of the issues. NZASE Science Communicator Mike Stone summarises the find
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