Magnetometers-in-Schools

Aurora Australis from southern Tasmania. Image: Will Standring

The ‘Magnetometers-in-Schools’ project will develop a pilot outreach program for secondary schools based on the deployment of magnetometers and lesson plans to boost school curriculum in areas such as Earth history and resources.

Overview

Led by Simon Williams from the University of Tasmania (UTAS), this project will aim to build and pilot magnetometers in secondary classrooms to teach students and teachers how to monitor changes in the magnetic fields associated with the Earth’s core and crust, as well as the fields generated above the Earth’s surface responsible for the well-known Aurora Australis.

“Auroras are a phenomenon that both fascinate and delight the public with their stunning displays. They also provide an accessible gateway into understanding the Earth's magnetic field, and how it modulates our relationship with the Sun. These natural light shows demonstrate how Earth's magnetic field interacts with solar particles, making abstract scientific concepts visually compelling.

By connecting this beautiful phenomenon to magnetic field monitoring, we can help the public understand the importance of these measurements while inspiring wonder about our planet's natural defences.” - Simon Williams

The Challenge

Earth science curriculum is currently in flux with an increasing reduction in government funding, despite Earth Science fields contributing to 14% of Australia’s GDP. This also includes a lessening perception of the field across school and university levels due to a lack of exposure to coursework, employability, and understanding of the discipline.

To improve educational outcomes, the Magnetometers-in-Schools program focuses on user engagement, highlighting the importance of Earth Science in Australia and altering preconceived perceptions of the subject.

Expected Outcomes

  • Procurement and delivery of functional magnetometer, including testing and calibration of equipment.

  • Delivery of pilot study in secondary schools across Tasmania, Australia.

  • Provision of lesson plans; data bundles, images, and film, including testing of plans across 12 months.

  • Generation of website, social media promotion and consolidation of material and project.

What are the benefits?

  • Enhanced Learning Outcomes: Magnetometers-in-schools will enable users to interactively learn more about Earth’s magnetic fields and their applications to industry and research.

  • Better Community Engagement: Magnetometers-in-schools not only aims to better engage students on Earth Sciences but also to serve as a precursor for subsequent programs and major Earth Science educational resources.

Who will benefit?

The Magnetometers-in-Schools program will benefit students, teachers and industry. Students and teachers will gain access to a comprehensive educational resource that enhances their understanding of Earth’s magnetic fields. Additionally, the program will make Earth Science more accessible, potentially leading to a better perception of industry and its importance in economic and environmental sustainability.

Access

  • Data Access: When available, data from the magnetometers will be available through the IMAS data portal.

  • Magnetometers Lesson Plans: This will be made available on the IMAS data portal once the pilot has concluded.

Acknowledging AuScope

This project was made possible by support from the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS) through AuScope. Acknowledging AuScope and NCRIS helps us demonstrate the value of shared research infrastructure, ensuring continued support and resources for the research community.

If you helped deliver this project or have benefited from its outputs, please credit AuScope so we can include your work in our impact reporting. For examples of acknowledgment, please visit our ‘How to Acknowledge AuScope’ page.

We’d love to see your work—please tag us on social media using:

@auscope | #AuScopeImpact | #NCRISimpact

 
 

Project Name
Magnetometers-in-Schools

Project Lead

Featured
Simon Williams
Simon Williams

Timeframe
2024 to 2026

Status
Active

Funding
AuScope Pilots 4

Host
The University of Tasmania (UTAS)

AuScope Programs

OutreachAuScopeMagnetometers, Outreach, Engagement, UTAS, STEM, Education