21 May 2024
An interactive mobile application designed to help with the sharing of Two-way Science initiatives in the classroom has been launched in Leonora, in WA’s Goldfields.
The free app, titled Mamutjitji Story, features animations, interactive activities, as well as music in both English and Ngalia.
Staff and the team involved in the app at the launch event at Leonora District High School.
Two-way Science helps schools work with local Aboriginal communities to create learning programs that combine the Western Australian Science Curriculum with Aboriginal knowledge.
Alongside the app, a collection of assets for the classroom has been developed that include practical activities to assist learning moving from the digital world to the physical.
Launching at Leonora District High School, with co-writer Kado Muir, students had an opportunity to be the first users of the app.
“This is the first time, an Indigenous-led technology project and app has been launched in a remote location such as Leonora,” said Mr Muir, also director of the Dilji Corporation.
“Our whole community is very proud of this launch and we hope it is one of many such new innovations – originating from the Western Deserts of Western Australia – which combine modern science and indigenous knowledge.”
Principal of Leonora District High School, Margaret Butterwood, has high hopes for the app’s use in the classroom.
“Many kids respond extremely well to schooling that features Indigenous culture and practical lessons,” said Mrs Butterwood.
“We hope more resources like these – which involve on-country Indigenous knowledge – can be developed as it will improve learning opportunities for all our kids.”
Co-writer Kado Muir with Leonora District High School students participating in a group song.
David Broun, Education Officer at Ngaparrtji Two-way Science, emphasised that the app is valuable outside of the local community.
“The Mamutjitji Story app is a wonderful education tool for students connected to Ngalia language, culture and country, and for national and international audiences to gain some insight into stories and song that underpin Ngalia cultural knowledge,” he said.
“It provides opportunities for all students to learn about the country and culture, with particular benefits for Indigenous student wellbeing, engagement and achievement.”
The app is free and can be downloaded from Google Play and the App Store.