By Peter Douglas
AN enthusiastic group of Mater Christi students are putting their problem-solving skills to the test as they participate in the renowned Smart City Project.
The project is the creation of ITS Australia activity, which encourages students who have an interest in science and technology.
Twenty girls from Years 9 and 10 will collaborate with students nationwide to design and build a model smart city, with robotic cars autonomously negotiating traffic lights, pedestrians and buildings.
The projects will be presented to industry professionals at the 23rd Intelligent Transport Systems World Congress, held from 10 to 14 October, at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Year 10 science enthusiast, Jordan Conroy-Benson, said the project was an enjoyable activity.
“The challenge has been so much fun, so far, being able to talk with other students around Australia to solve problems and come up with new ideas has been a great experience,” Jordan said.
“I’ve learnt so much around and I am so proud of what we’ve accomplished so far.”
At the helm of the program is Roland Gesthuizen, one of Australia’s leading technology educators, who is based at Mater Christi College.
“Since the program was launched in January, students across the country, including around 20 girls from Mater Christi, have been enthusiastically giving up their free time to collaborate, research and discuss their findings and how to create the programming code to efficiently complete the challenge,” Mr Gesthuizen said.
“The students are also incredibly excited to be given the opportunity to showcase their talents to international ITS professionals, as well as other Future Innovators in October.”
Members of the public will be able to view the students’ work at the Open for Public Days on Thursday, 13 October, and Friday, 14 October.
More details at www.itsworldcongress2016.com.
