School students’ research to be celebrated
News release from the Royal Society of New Zealand
11 November 2009
School students’ research to be celebrated at national event
A remote-controlled lawn mower, a great tasting gluten-free ice cream, and the power of peppermint to increase concentration are just three of the research and technology projects developed by students chosen for the Genesis Energy Realise the Dream event being held in Wellington next month.
Thirty one school students from around New Zealand will attend the five-day event, from 6-11 December, which celebrates and rewards students who have carried out an excellent piece of science research, or a technology or engineering project.
Among the many prizes on offer are scholarships, cash prizes and international travel to destinations such as China and Europe.
The work these students produce is really innovative, says Royal Society of New Zealand organiser Debbie Woodhall.
"We’ve got a project on how the height of a building affects its stability in an earthquake and another on a device that can remove bulls from ditches without being a safety threat to the bull or the farmer.
“To be selected is a real achievement as all the entries are of a very high standard, with students completing some outstanding projects.”
She says the Realise the Dream event celebrates all aspects of science and technology and engineering.
“One student has designed a device to alleviate back pain from bad posture and another has investigated the ideal temperature and the amount of food required when transporting bees.”
During their week in Wellington the students will choose from a wide range of places to visit, including Geological and Nuclear Sciences, Industrial Research Ltd, Island Bay Marine Education Centre and Karori Wildlife Sanctuary. Massey University in Wellington has also organised a full day programme for all the participants.
The students will also participate in a full day workshop on public speaking and how to write their own news media stories. Social activities include attending a pantomime at Circa Theatre, a science quiz night and a function hosted by UNESCO. Students are also required to present an oral presentation to the judges about their research and then answer questions.
Over the next few months the students are required to share their work with their communities, before returning to Wellington for the awards dinner next year on 10 March where the award winners will be announced.
Details of the students selected and the names of their projects are listed in the attached document, in geographical order from north to south.
ENDS