The 2023 CEDoW Extension Science Conference

The Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong, in collaboration with the University of Wollongong, recently hosted the 2023 CEDoW Extension Science Conference. Magdalene students Alyssa McNeil, Zachary Street, Spencer Goldfinch and Cassandra Kokeck presented their progress reports in poster format (unfortunately Marcus Attard was unable to attend). Please see their posters below. 

Marcus Attard

• Stronger, Fitter, Faster? A Comparative Study of Cognitive and Physical Training for Improving Simple Reaction Time: An Evidence-Based Analysis

Spencer Goldfinch

• Get of that phone! An investigation into the Effects of Screen Time on Gait and Visual Search Behaviour

Cassandra Kokcek

• Shake Things Up: A quasi-experimental Study on Protein Timing’s Influence on DOMS

Alyssa McNeil

• Investigation of the Efficacy of Thyme and Lemon Myrtle Extracts in Inhibiting E. Coli Compared to Surface Antibacterial Spray and Ampicillin.

Zachary Street

• A Systematic Review of the Adverse Effects of Selective Serotonin Re-uptake Inhibitors (SSRI) and Serotonin Norepinephrine Re-uptake Inhibitor (SNRI): A Comparison of the Strength of Evidence

Several invited Year 11 students attended to stimulate their interest in this course and further scientific study. 

Students from Magdalene Catholic College, John Therry Catholic College, Holy Spirit College, and St John the Evangelist Catholic High School participated in the event. This Extension Science course focuses on the authentic application of scientific research skills to produce a Scientific Research Report. Students propose and develop a research question, formulate a hypothesis and develop evidence-based responses to create their Scientific Research Report which is supported by a Scientific Research Portfolio.

The Extension Science Conference allowed students from different schools to learn about the projects undertaken by their peers, fostering the exchange of ideas and cross-fertilization of knowledge. Over the years, there has been a notable increase in the number of schools and students participating in Extension Science, with the quality of projects continuously improving.

The conference began with an introduction by Associate Professor Katarina Mikac, followed by a guest speaker presentation from PhD student Jordyn Clough who spoke about his own journey towards becoming a research scientist. The Extension Science students then presented their research projects, supported by posters summarising their findings.

In addition to the Extension Science presentations, the students were also given a tour of the impressive science facilities at the University of Wollongong. The conference provided a rewarding and successful day for all participants, served as a platform to promote scientific inquiry, collaboration, and excellence in student-led scientific research within the Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong.