The MOTIS Project

In the past, maths and science may have been viewed by some as ‘dry’ subjects, not holding a great deal of appeal for many students  Project MOTIS aims to change this by using hand-held technologies (HHT) to engage all maths and science students and enhance their learning experience in the classroom. 

“We want to have a greater number of students being able to participate to a greater level,” says Wainuiomata High School Principal, Rob Mill. 

Wainuiomata is one of four schools in the greater Wellington region which are taking part in the project.

HHT includes graphic calculators and data logging applications with probe attachments. The aim is to increase student motivation and interest in these subjects by stimulating, encouraging and developing students’ naturally questioning minds through the use of technology.

HHT is interactive, visual, tactile and fun technology. The technology supports problem-solving processes but students still have to understand the fundamentals of maths and science. It’s a very inclusive technology because it caters for different learning modes and styles. It will assist in the classroom by challenging capable students and ‘capturing’ and assisting students who may ‘switch off’ or struggle with mathematical and scientific principles and concepts. 

Project MOTIS is being conducted in Years 11, 12, and 13, and three of the four schools have the advantage of being previous Digital Opportunities participants and have embraced the opportunity to do so again.  

Teachers have already been trained in the technology and will receive ongoing training throughout the project through a partnership with Texas Instruments.