Important information
The National AI Centre (NAIC) is transitioning from CSIRO to the Department of Industry, Science, and Resources (DISR) on 1st July 2024. You can find the latest NAIC content at industry.gov.au. For any NAIC-related questions, please email NAIC@industry.gov.au.
About
Embark on a transformative learning journey with the Cultural Considerations course, designed for educators and STEM professionals dedicated to building inclusive, collaborative environments for young people in STEM. Through four engaging modules—self-awareness, living knowledges, community engagement, and know better, do better—you’ll explore key aspects of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Each module offers interactive case studies, multimedia activities, and practical insights, encouraging self-reflection and a deeper understanding of diverse cultural perspectives.
This course fosters a pathway toward cultural confidence, guiding learners to recognise and respect the unique, living knowledge systems of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Participants will reflect on personal and professional practices to better support Indigenous inclusion in learning contexts, from building sustainable community relationships to appreciating the richness of diverse cultural identities. By the end of the course, you’ll be equipped to shape more inclusive learning spaces and contribute to the growth of a respectful, connected community in STEM and beyond.
Cultural Sensitivity: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that the Cultural Considerations modules contain images, voices and names of deceased persons. In some Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, hearing recordings, seeing images or the names of deceased persons may cause sadness or distress and in some cases, offend against strongly held cultural prohibitions.
This self-paced online course will take approximately 1 hour to complete.
Available resources
Module 1: Self-awareness
This module invites you to reflect on how personal worldviews and unconscious biases shape learning experiences. By recognising these influences, you’ll gain insights into fostering more inclusive and respectful interactions in STEM environments. Self-awareness marks the beginning of a journey toward cultural transformation.
This module takes approximately 10 minutes to complete.
Open module 1 [Link will open in a new window]
Module 2: Living Knowledges
Explore Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledges as a dynamic, living system that offers valuable insights into science and sustainability. This module highlights the rich cultural practices—like language and storytelling—that have transmitted knowledge for generations, enhancing our understanding of the natural world through an Indigenous lens.
This module takes approximately 15 minutes to complete.
Open module 2 [Link will open in a new window]
Module 3: Community engagement
Community Engagement emphasises the importance of building sustainable relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Through this module, you’ll develop an appreciation for the diversity of values and beliefs within these communities and learn how to approach collaboration with cultural sensitivity and respect.
This module takes approximately 20 minutes to complete.
Open module 3 [Link will open in a new window]
Module 4: Know better, do better
The final module empowers you with the knowledge and skills to begin engaging inclusively and respectfully with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, cultures and knowledges. You'll also have the opportunity to reflect on valuable insights from others, supporting your own journey of cultural transformation. By acknowledging diverse perspectives and engaging in culturally respectful behaviours, you’ll be better equipped to contribute to a more connected and respectful STEM community.
This module takes approximately 15 minutes to complete.
