STEM Stories: Family Jobs, Future Dreams

Bringing STEM to Life Through Real Stories

What if students could discover that a scientist, engineer, programmer, healthcare worker, or environmental expert is already part of their own family or community? During National Science Week, "STEM Stories: Family Jobs, Future Dreams" will connect students with real STEM professionals through a series of short video interviews featuring parents, carers, grandparents, relatives, and community members.

By hearing authentic stories from people they know, students will gain a better understanding of how STEM shapes the world around them and explore exciting possibilities for their own futures.

Project Description

A call for volunteers will be shared through Compass and paper notices, inviting family and community members working in STEM-related fields to participate.

Each volunteer will:

• Record a short introduction explaining their role and career pathway.
• Receive a bank of student-designed questions in advance.
• Respond on camera to approximately ten questions.

Students will be actively involved in creating the interview questions, encouraging curiosity, critical thinking, and ownership of the project. Questions may include:

• What inspired you to choose your career?
• What does a typical day at work look like?
• What skills do you use most often?
• What problems do you help solve?
• What advice would you give to young people interested in STEM?

To simplify participation and consent requirements, students will not appear on camera.

The completed interviews will be edited into a "STEM Stories" video series that will be:

• Screened during National Science Week events.
• Shared during STEAM rotations or lunchtime activities.
• Used as an ongoing classroom resource, particularly within the Science as a Human Endeavour strand.
• Retained as a resource for future year levels and Science Week celebrations.

Alignment with Selection Criteria

1. Impact on Student Learning Outcomes in STEM

This project helps students understand STEM as a human endeavour by connecting classroom learning with real-world careers. Students gain insight into how STEM knowledge and skills are applied in everyday workplaces while developing inquiry and communication skills through the question-design process.

2. Contribution to Ongoing Engagement in STEM

Many students have limited exposure to STEM careers. By showcasing relatable role models from their own families and community, the project helps students see STEM pathways as achievable and relevant. Featuring a diverse range of professions increases the likelihood that students will see careers that reflect their own interests and aspirations.

3. Practicality and Scope

The project is highly achievable within the grant budget and timeframe. Family members can record responses at a time that suits them, making participation flexible and accessible. The equipment purchased will be reusable, and the completed video library will continue to support STEM learning beyond National Science Week.

4. Community and Family Involvement

Families are central to this initiative. By valuing the expertise of parents, carers, grandparents, and extended family members, the project strengthens school–community connections and encourages meaningful conversations about careers, education, and future opportunities. The project could also be expanded in future years to include neighbouring schools and community partners.

Budget

Funding will support the purchase of reusable equipment to ensure high-quality recordings, including:

• Wireless lavalier microphone: $80–$150
• LED lighting kit: $40–$70
• Tripod or recording stand: $50–$100

Additional funds may support basic video editing, promotional materials, and a screening event during Science Week.

Total estimated cost: up to $320.

Conclusion

"STEM Stories: Family Jobs, Future Dreams" is a practical, sustainable, and community-driven initiative that brings STEM to life through authentic voices. By connecting students with STEM professionals from their own families and community, the project promotes curiosity, broadens career awareness, strengthens family engagement, and creates a lasting resource that will inspire students well beyond National Science Week.