Engineering: heli launcher and rubber band racer
Description
Engineering: heli launcher and rubber band racer is designed for TAS teachers who want to build practical, classroom-ready confidence in delivering engaging engineering challenges for Technology 7–8. Before attending the workshop, participants will need to complete specified WHS workshop safety modules online through OnGuard. Access details and a list of the required modules will be provided in advance, so you arrive with an understanding of essential safety requirements and are ready to focus on practical skill development.
During the focused 6-hour practical workshop, you will construct, test and refine two accessible engineering projects: a heli launcher and a rubber band racer. Through these activities, you will explore forces, motion, simple machines, machines, energy transfer, testing, iteration, safe classroom management and purposeful project sequencing. Participants will consider how students can investigate design problems, generate ideas, prototype solutions, collect performance data, make evidence-informed improvements and communicate design decisions. Technical notes and supporting resources will be provided during the workshop to assist with the practical activities and future classroom implementation.
The workshop supports teachers to integrate engineering systems, materials, production processes, design thinking and evaluation through practical activities suited to school workshop or classroom settings. Participants will leave with completed exemplars, practical teaching strategies and adaptable project ideas that encourage student creativity, problem solving, collaboration, technical skill development and hands-on experimentation.
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Dr Matthew Christie
Dr Matthew Christie is a Lecturer in Engineering Technologies at Australian Catholic University, where he teaches and designs undergraduate and postgraduate engineering programs. With a PhD in Legged Robotics and Applied Smart Materials from the University of Wollongong, Matthew's expertise spans engineering design, automation, electronics, robotics and STEM education. His research has focused on innovative applications of smart materials, vibration control systems and robotics, while his teaching emphasises connecting engineering theory with practical, hands-on learning. Matthew is passionate about helping educators bring authentic engineering experiences into the classroom and inspiring the next generation of problem-solvers.
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