On Tuesday of TOKtober's Innovation Week, the QAHS Theory of Knowledge teaching team were privileged to welcome Dr Jennifer Campbell from the Griffith University School of Engineering and Built Environment to speak with the Year 10 and Year 11 cohorts. Dr Campbell is an Environmental Engineer, Ecological scientist and Educator who is passionate about engaging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives of and in Engineering. In 2022, she received the Queensland Women in Stem 'Breaking Barriers Award' for her work in promoting diversity and inclusion across Engineering.
However, the great thrill for the QAHS staff and students came from Dr Campbell's shared stories of her time as a Lego Master on the beloved TV show. Demonstrating that an infectious sense of play is possible across science and research, Dr Campbell's messages to stay curious, get messy, make mistakes and always be yourself resonated across the campus as sound advice for school and life.
Additionally, Dr Campbell's extensive experience in research across Engineering, Ecology, Resource Management and with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities meant that her visit was timely for the Year 11 cohort as they grapple with the TOK Essay Title: To what extent is the knowledge we produce determined by the methodologies we use? Dr Campbell generously extended the offer to further elaborate on her use of qualitative, quantitative and Indigenous research methodologies for our students.
Thank you, Dr Campbell for making time in your busy schedule to share some of your insight into the possibilities that come from the very best of attitudes, and scientific philosophies. We were inspired.
Julie Bertwistle
TOK Co-ordinator, Psychology teacher, English teacher