STEAM students’ race to the checkered flag
- Combining the excitement of Formula One with STEAM application, the F1 in Schools initiative allows students to experience real-world challenges
- Apart from getting hands-on with engineering and technology, students also develop problem solving, critical thinking, teamwork and project management skills
FutureSkills – a training initiative developed by the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) – in December hosted the 2023 F1 in Schools Hong Kong finals. Local secondary students enjoyed the opportunity to participate in the global F1 in Schools competition, run by the prestigious Formula One Group.
“F1 in Schools combines the excitement of Formula One racing with the application of STEAM [science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics] principles, allowing students to experience the real-world challenges faced by engineers and technologists,” said Dr Lawrence Cheung, chief innovation officer of the HKPC, and CEO of the Automotive Platforms and Application Systems R&D Centre.
“By taking part in the F1 in Schools Hong Kong finals, students not only gain hands-on experience in engineering and technology but also develop important skills such as problem solving, critical thinking, teamwork and project management,” he continued. “These skills are essential for success in the 21st century workforce, where interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation are highly valued.”
He added that the competition also provided students with a platform to engage with and learn from industry professionals, mentors and experts in fields related to the competition. This helped students gain insights into potential career paths related to engineering and technology.
According to Cheung, there exists a misconception that Hong Kong students are not that interested in technical fields such as engineering. This inspired HKPC to take the lead in promoting STEAM education. The local F1 in Schools competition began as a small initiative in 2022 but rapidly grew in popularity, as the HKPC collaborated with more schools and industry experts to provide resources, training and support to participants.
The programme also includes various supporting activities and events, including STEAM education seminars, workshops and exhibitions to increase awareness and generate interest among students, parents and the wider community.
