WOW! The World Of Wonder!

WOW, The World of Wonder, is an exciting and innovative project aimed at improving and increasing the number of learners participating in STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths). The WOW Project is particularly focused on Technology whilst also demonstrating in an engaging way how the other STEM subjects are relevant to all areas of modern life.

Students, teachers / educators are given first hand experience of our state of the art, industry standard technology. The aim is to encourage and inspire learners to study and really enjoy the STEM subjects, through the amazing and exciting experience of taking part in the WOW activities.

Staff attending the event have the opportunity to enhance their existing skills in the rapidly changing technologies.

The project will improve and increase the numbers of learners participating, achieving and progressing in STEM subjects (those mainly associated with ICT/Technology) at key stage 4/GCSE, and especially around the 14-19 diplomas, while also improving progression post 16 into a range of vocational and academic eductation / employment routes.

The project will deliver activities and skills to 14-19 learners and teachers / educators who provide ICT learning from the Leeds and Bradford areas.

The project has five key Creative / Digital technology themes.

Each will include the production of:

• New Learning Resources.
• CPD of teachers (and other educators, e.g. FE).
• Learning opportunities for 14-19 learners (including out of school / college learning).

The themes are as follows:

1. Virtual Reality
2. Games Technology
3. 3D Stereoscopic Technology
4. Animation
5. Motion Capturing
6. Other technologies

The aim is to increase and improve participation, achievement and progression in STEM by:

• Increasing achievement and attainment in Technology, Media and ICT subjects at GCSE / Key Stage 4.
• Increasing achievement and attainment in Technology, Media and ICT subjects at post 16 (e.g. 14-19 Diplomas, A Level and Vocational Qualifications).
• Increasing participation of 14-19 year olds in Technology, Media and ICT subjects.
• Increasing participation of teachers from Leeds & Bradford (including lecturers and teaching assistants) in Technology, Media and ICT related CPD activities.
• Raising awareness and opportunities of Technology, Media and ICT for future learning, career choices and enterprise activities, and therefore increase progression within these areas post 16 and post 19.