The Victorian Space Science Education Centre (VSSEC) is one of three Specialist Science Centres established by the Victorian State Government. It was officially opened in 2006 by the then Victorian Treasurer, Mr John Brumby and joined Ecolinc and GTAC in offering high quality science programs. VSSEC uses the context of space to engage teachers and students in the teaching and learning of science.
VSSEC is situated in the grounds of Strathmore Secondary College and its inspiring spiral-galaxy shaped building, designed by Gregory Burgess Architects, offers a stimulating environment for hands-on learning. All areas within the Centre are supported by an integrated technology system which supports a rich learning environment.
VSSEC applies the latest educational research to develop effective programs for both students and teachers. To maintain the highest level of excellence in both pedagogy and science content VSSEC established an advisory board consisting of representatives from academia, education and the government.
VSSEC’s programs support dedicated subject and cross-curricula domains. These programs are delivered in context and highlight career and study paths. Programs predominantly support secondary school learning however VSSEC also offers a range of outreach programs for primary students and events to engage the general public.
Student Programs
VSSEC’s programs provide a sensory rich, hands-on, scenario-based science experience. All programs are embedded within the school curriculum, and follow Victorian Essential Learning Standards (VELS) and VCE guidelines.
Attention has been paid to curriculum content that addresses science literacy, reasoning in science and the application of science. VSSEC’s programs demonstrate the way science interacts with society and technology, while also including concepts of risk, questioning and ethics.
Undergraduate and Post Graduate students from a range of universities and disciplines are employed as educators in various programs to help raise awareness of study and career options.
Teacher Professional Learning
VSSEC also provides a number Professional Learning Programs for teachers. These programs are designed to build subject knowledge and instructional competency, and introduce teachers to new ways of increasing student engagement in science. All programs have a significant hands-on component and draw on the E5 Instructional Model and its application in the classroom. Each of VSSEC’s student programs is supported by a Teacher Professional Learning Program to give teachers the skills to support their in getting the maximum benefit from their visit to VSSEC. The Professional Learning Programs at VSSEC are designed for small groups of teachers to provide an intimate learning experience and access to experts in the relevant fields.
For more information please click here to visit VSSEC's website.