SEAMS: Improving engagement in science and mathematics to aid access to higher education for Victorian secondary students

From a shared goal to increase the participation of Indigenous and low SES students in science and maths related courses at university, Monash University and the University of Melbourne produced the SEAMS project –... [ view full abstract ]

From a shared goal to increase the participation of Indigenous and low SES students in science and maths related courses at university, Monash University and the University of Melbourne produced the SEAMS project – Strengthening Engagement and Achievement in Mathematics & Science. SEAMS delivers study camps and online activities designed to improve students’ engagement with maths and science and help students explore study and career options.
The Indigenous Early Years program is open to Year 8, 9 and 10 Indigenous students in Victoria. Students attend a four-day camp, spending two days at Monash University and two days at The University of Melbourne participating in a range of hands-on activities designed to increase their involvement in maths and science learning.
The VCE program focuses on improving students’ knowledge and skills in Maths Methods, Chemistry and Physics. Three-day camps are held in January and July, with one year level attending at Monash and the other at Melbourne, with groups swapping locations for the second camp.
Camp experiences prepare VCE students for high achievement in their subjects with sessions run by leading educators who provide insight into key concepts and study skills. VCE students also have access to resources and networking through online learning throughout term-time. For both cohorts, camps promote future aspirations in mathematics and sciences.

In 2014, 61 of 63 SEAMS Year 12 participants received a university offer. Of these students, 95% of students received offers to study in maths and science related fields.
Since inception, the response from SEAMS participants has been very positive. With 92% of VCE students gaining confidence in maths and science at school and 80% of Indigenous students looking forward to further engagement with the program, SEAMS affirms the importance of collaboration on widening participation in mathematics and sciences for Indigenous and low SES young people.