This discussion focused on the course design to give students the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in the computing industry. It looked at the following topics, including web design, mechatronics, and game design.

Year 9

• Term 1 & 2: Designing for the modern web

• Term 3 & 4: Biomedical mechatronics

Year 10

• Term 1 & 2: Games for change

• Term 3 & 4: Presenting Data Differently

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

• Select and apply safe, secure, and responsible practices in the ethical use of data and computing technology.

• Apply iterative processes to define problems and plan, design, develop, and evaluate computing solutions.

• Manage, document, and explain individual and collaborative work practices.

• Understand how innovation, enterprise, and automation have inspired the evolution of computing technology.

• Explain how data is stored, transmitted, and secured in digital systems and how information is communicated in a range of contexts.

• Communicate ideas, processes, and solutions using appropriate media.

• Design, produce, and evaluate algorithms and implement them in a general-purpose and/or object-oriented programming language.

• Design and create user interfaces and the user experience.

Capstone Project

In the final term of Year 10, students will complete a capstone project. This project will give them the opportunity to apply their skills in web design, mechatronics, or game design to design a system that gathers and presents data in a useful and meaningful way.

This provides an overview of the key elements of the Digital Technologies program in the primary classroom discussed, as well as some of the key pedagogies that can be used to teach technology usage effectively.

Key Elements of the Program
The Digital Technologies program in the primary classroom covers the following key elements:

• Coding: This element of the program teaches students the basics of coding, including how to create simple programs using block-based coding languages.

• Robotics: This element of the program teaches students how to build and program robots.

• Digital Citizenship: This element of the program teaches students about the safe and responsible use of technology.

Key Pedagogies
There are a number of key pedagogies that can be used to teach technology usage effectively in the primary classroom. These include:

• TPACK pedagogy: This pedagogy focuses on the knowledge that teachers need to effectively integrate technology into their teaching.

• PRIMM pedagogy: This pedagogy is a highly scaffolded and modelled approach to teaching programming.

• High Possibility Classroom (HPC) pedagogy: This pedagogy focuses on using technology to create more engaging, challenging, and relevant learning experiences for students.

• Visible Thinking Routines (VTRs): These are a set of research-based pedagogical tools that help students make their thinking visible.

Resources
There are a number of resources available to help teachers teach Digital Technologies in the primary classroom. These include:

• The Digital Technologies Hub: This website provides a wealth of resources for teachers, including lesson plans, activities, and tools.

• The Australian Curriculum: This curriculum includes the Digital Technologies content standards for the primary classroom.

• The CSIRO STEM Professionals in Schools program: This program provides teachers with the opportunity to work with STEM professionals to develop their own Digital Technologies teaching skills.

On the weekend of the 29th and 30th of July, 60 of our members gathered at the ACARA offices in Sydney for the Winter Writers Workshop where we spent time analysing the new syllabus and developed scopes and units of work to deliver this content.

We would like to thank Julie King, Kim Vernon, Melanie Hughes from ACARA for hosting us. Thanks also go to Liz Rose and Peter Davies from the NSWDET and Chris Woldhuis from AISNSW for their presentations. It was a memorable event with all sectors of education represented.

At ICTENSW, we are committed to supporting ICT, STEM and Computer Science educators from all sectors and at every level in NSW. Through our professional learning program, we provide resources, networking and advocacy efforts for our members. We support the development of digital literacies, digital citizenship and the use of best practice pedagogies that build students capability to use and create with technology to solve tough problems.  

We are intentionally working to assist teachers become upskilled to teach in the hyperconnected world of AI and Machine Learning. Having the methodologies and practices to facilitate students' deep learning from early learning through to tertiary levels.

Another area of focus is supporting teachers to develop strategies for assessment, with concentrated attention being given to formative assessment and the feedback loops that enable iteration and improvement.

NSW Curriculum Reform

NESA is preparing for the next stage of consultation on the following K-6 and 7-10 Syllabuses. 

• K - 6 Creative Arts, HSIE, PDHPE, Science and Technology K–6
• 7-10 HSIE, PDHPE, Creative Arts

ICTENSW is preparing a response to the new Science and Technology K–6 syllabuses and would love to hear your feedback. If you have any comments that you would like to be included in our response or would like to hear more about the conversation, please email secretary@ictensw.org.au. 

Key Dates

• Have Your Say start date31 July
• Have Your Say end date 11 Sep 

The following link below provides a video overview of the changes.

https://youtu.be/FqBMQqPyIS4 

For more information

https://educationstandards.nsw.edu.au/wps/portal/nesa/about/news/consultations

UNESCO calls for global ban on smartphones in schools

A new UN report raised concerns on Wednesday about the excessive use of smartphones, calling for them to be banned in schools worldwide. According to the UN's education, science and culture agency UNESCO, the over-use of mobile phones impacts learning.

<https://news.un.org/en/story/2023/07/1139122>

UNESCO Urges World Governments to Ban Smartphones in Schools

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has issued a major report on the role of technology in education. Among the report’s many findings and recommendations, the UN is now urging governments worldwide to ban smartphones in schools due to their detrimental effect on learning.

<https://www.govtech.com/education/k-12/unesco-urges-world-governments-to-ban-smartphones-in-schools>

‘Put learners first’: Unesco calls for global ban on smartphones in schools

Smartphones should be banned from schools to tackle classroom disruption, improve learning and help protect children from cyberbullying, a UN report has recommended.

<https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jul/26/put-learners-first-unesco-calls-for-global-ban-on-smartphones-in-schools>

Teachers: share your experiences of students using smartphones in school

We would like to hear from teachers worldwide about their experiences of how smartphones affect school life. Are smartphones permitted among students at your school? Do you have any concerns?

<https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2023/jul/25/teachers-share-your-experiences-of-students-using-smartphones-in-school>

Digital Equity Isn't Just About Devices and Internet Access

A tech leader breaks down the four components of equitable access to digital technology.

<https://www.edweek.org/technology/digital-equity-isnt-just-about-devices-and-internet-access/2023/07>

How to Use STEM Teaching Tools in Your Classroom

You’re probably familiar with the perks that come with getting students interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) classes. It’s no secret that STEM careers are budding. Therefore, furnishing students with the much-needed experience through effective activities and tools can help foster interest in these lucrative and in-demand professions.

<https://stemeducationguide.com/use-stem-teaching-tools-classroom/>

Coding for Kids: How Long Does It Take to Learn Coding?

Well…it is not going to be overnight, but it's going to be a fun journey! That being said, it also does not have to take years – your kid does not have to have graduated college to code at least something!

<https://stemeducationguide.com/coding-for-kids/>

What Is Computer Science For Kids? How to Get Kids Started Coding

Computer science is an exciting, ever-changing field with a lot to offer. It is no surprise that people of all ages are interested in how to find out more about it, especially children.

<https://stemeducationguide.com/what-is-computer-science-for-kids/>

Meet education’s future thought leaders

Nine aspiring school leaders will now have the chance to share their groundbreaking work in education on a greater level after being selected as the recipients of Education Perfect’s (EP) inaugural Fellowship program.

<https://www.theeducatoronline.com/k12/news/meet-educations-future-thought-leaders/282791>

With STEM You Can: unlocking the code to tech entrepreneurship

A background in international relations and politics helped Tash understand complex systems and how they impact people, which led to a successful STEM career.

<https://www.csiro.au/en/news/All/Articles/2023/July/STEM-Tash-Jamieson>

RoboRebels are riding high

Narooma High School’s RoboRebels team are riding high after recent trips to Sydney and the US.

<https://education.nsw.gov.au/news/latest-news/roborebels-are-riding-high>

Simple Ideas for Introducing AI Into Your Teaching

Teachers can use emerging generative AI tools both to augment their teaching and to assist with behind-the-scenes tasks.

<https://www.edweek.org/technology/3-simple-ideas-for-introducing-ai-into-your-teaching/2023/06>

PISA’s new focus on computational thinking and coding

As technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, how we educate students should evolve accordingly — including making computer science a core subject. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) recognizes the importance of computational thinking and computer science and, in a groundbreaking move, plans to adapt its triennial Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), which evaluates education systems worldwide by testing the skills and knowledge of a sampling of 15-year-old students. In 2025, PISA will add computational thinking and block-based coding to the list of skills it evaluates.

<https://codeorg.medium.com/pisas-new-focus-on-computational-thinking-and-coding-fbe90e456c5f>

Happy campers: Behind the scenes with Future Shapers

Agnes fell in love with astronomy in Kenya when she’d go stargazing with her Dad. One day, she hopes to be an astrophysicist. Agnes got to look through a telescope for the first time ever at a STEM Together Future Shapers camp. Agnes is one of 26 students from around Australia selected to take their interest in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) further. Future Shapers are from groups we want to encourage to pursue STEM careers. This includes Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples, girls, and children from regional or lower opportunity schools.

<https://www.csiro.au/en/news/All/Articles/2023/July/STEM-future-shapers>

Urgent regulation on edtech needed – global report

Countries need to take immediate action to ensure technology never replaces in-person, teacher-led instruction, a global report urges.

<https://www.theeducatoronline.com/k12/news/urgent-regulation-on-edtech-needed--global-report/282930>

UNESCO calls for smartphone ban in schools

A major international report released today calls for smartphones to be banned in schools, pointing to concerns about data privacy, cyberbullying, wellbeing and among children themselves. Here are the key messages from the UNESCO 2023 Global Education Monitor Report on technology in education.

<https://www.teachermagazine.com/au_en/articles/unesco-calls-for-smartphone-ban-in-schools>

New courses to combat out-of-field Technology teaching

Studies show that almost half of the teachers currently teaching technology classes in public schools lack a formal qualification in these critical areas, piling additional pressure on already busy staff and reducing subject options for students.

<https://www.theeducatoronline.com/k12/news/new-courses-to-combat-outoffield-technology-teaching/282929>

Girls have overtaken boys in science participation. In workplaces, it’s a completely different story

The number of young women enrolling in science and maths in year 12 has nearly reached parity with young men, but while the battle for the minds is being won at school, jobs in these industries continue to be dominated by men.

<https://www.smh.com.au/national/girls-have-overtaken-boys-in-science-participation-in-workplaces-it-s-a-completely-different-story-20230726-p5drah.html>

If your kid is home sick from school, is unlimited screen time OK?

Not so long ago, if a child was home sick from school, the main screen-based entertainment was daytime television. The options were limited to The Price is Right or reruns of Home and Away.

<https://theconversation.com/if-your-kid-is-home-sick-from-school-is-unlimited-screen-time-ok-207922>

Female STEM participation slow to pick up - report

Female participation in Australia’s science, technology, engineering and math- (STEM-) qualified jobs has increased by 15%, or four percentage points, in the decade to 2022, the federal government revealed this week. ... For the first time, this year’s monitor includes Year 12 enrollment data, showing Year 12 enrollments of girls in all STEM subjects has increased only slightly from 45% to 47% from 2013 to 2021.

<https://www.miningweekly.com/article/female-stem-jobs-slow-going---report-2023-07-21/page:48>

The state of STEM gender equity in 2023

The monitor is a national data resource on women’s and girls’ participation in STEM. It captures the state of STEM gender equity in Australia and measures changes and trends. You can use the interactive data to explore girls’ and women’s participation in STEM through school, higher education graduation and the workforce.

<https://www.industry.gov.au/news/state-stem-gender-equity-2023>

How an old Disney movie inspired Daniya to create a medical robot

Bright, ambitious and enthusiastic – Daniya Syed and Andrew Chung are breaking new ground as Australia’s next generation of innovators. We look at how HSC courses give students the chance to develop exciting new technologies and products for market.

<https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/how-an-old-disney-movie-inspired-daniya-to-create-a-medical-robot-20230529-p5dc8r.html>

Dr Karl Kruszelnicki gives his tips for HSC Science

<https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/dr-karl-kruszelnicki-gives-his-tips-for-hsc-science-20230531-p5dcp9.html>

Artificial intelligence teaching and learning: The future of education in NSW [subscription]

Artifical intelligence is being implented in the classrooms, and most teachers have come out and said they support its rise. See how technology is reshaping education.

<https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/artificial-intelligence-teaching-and-learning-the-future-of-education-in-nsw/news-story/78c2c9af5720a4b0cd792bd114ecd38c>

How college educators are using AI in the classroom

While developers of artificial intelligence and industry leaders debate the risks and precise consequences of the technology, there’s no question that AI will greatly influence teaching and learning in the coming years.

<https://hechingerreport.org/how-educators-are-using-ai-in-the-classroom/>

Welcome to the 'Walled Garden.' Is This Education's Solution to AI's Pitfalls?

A new kind of chatbot would generate responses based only on vetted content.

<https://www.edweek.org/technology/welcome-to-the-walled-garden-is-this-educations-solution-to-ais-pitfalls/2023/07>

AI Isn't the Problem. It's How We Use It, Especially in Schools

The problem is not the technology, but the kinds of tasks we ask students to do.

<https://www.edweek.org/technology/opinion-ai-isnt-the-problem-its-how-we-use-it-especially-in-schools/2023/07>

UNESCO issues urgent call for appropriate use of technology in education

A new global UNESCO report on technology in education highlights the lack of appropriate governance and regulation. Countries are urged to set their own terms for the way technology is designed and used in education so that it never replaces in-person, teacher-led instruction, and supports the shared objective of quality education for all.

<https://www.unesco.org/gem-report/en/articles/unesco-issues-urgent-call-appropriate-use-technology-education>

ChatGPT ban in Australia’s public schools likely to be overturned

The ban on public school students using artificial intelligence tools such as ChatGPT may be reversed next year, the federal education minister says, but students will probably face changes in how they are tested and graded.

<https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2023/jul/09/chatgpt-ban-in-australias-public-schools-likely-to-be-overturned>

Why the ChatGPT ban in public schools is being reversed

On Sunday, Federal Education Minister, Jason Clare, announced that the ban on public school students using generative AI tools such as ChatGPT may be reversed next year, pending the development of a draft framework addressing concerns of plagiarism, cheating, and impacts on student learning.

<https://www.theeducatoronline.com/k12/news/why-the-chatgpt-ban-in-public-schools-is-being-reversed/282834>

‘A profoundly unethical tool’: Experts urge caution on AI in schools [subscription]

A range of experts have weighed in on what rules should govern the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in schools.

<https://educationhq.com/news/a-profoundly-unethical-tool-experts-urge-caution-on-ai-in-schools-151029/>

Evidence-informed national framework coming for AI in schools [subscription]

Consultation will soon begin on a national framework for the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in schools, and Education Minister Jason Clare has indicated that states may need to unwind existing bans on the software.

<https://educationhq.com/news/evidence-informed-national-framework-coming-for-ai-in-schools-150916/>

Explore STEM lesson plans

* Sphero slalom | Years 5–6: Students explore slalom sports and how to maximise speed when completing a course. They investigate the impact of distance and friction on time to complete a course through digital and unplugged activities. They then apply their learning to program a Sphero to complete a slalom course.

* Industrial design challenge – separating materials | Years 7–8: This lesson is a great introduction to the idea of separating mixtures and enables students to consider separation as a process that operates on macroscopic levels. It provides students with an opportunity to engage in hands-on engineering using recycled materials.

* Visualising climate change | Years 9–10: In this lesson, students explore different approaches to data representation, with the aim of engaging audiences with scientific data. They explore local temperature and rainfall datasets over time and represent trends in innovative ways.

<https://www.thegist.edu.au/educators/stem-lesson-plans/>

Education ministers to spell out kids’ privacy safeguards for AI and ChatGPT in schools [subscription]

“How do we make sure that if our children are using a generative AI technology like ChatGPT, that what they type into the system doesn’t get spat back to them as an ad on Tik Tok?’’ Why federal Education Minister Jason Clare wants controls over AI in schools.

<https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/politics/education-ministers-to-spell-out-kids-privacy-safeguards-for-ai-and-chatgpt-in-schools/news-story/13f430d56b5dfa610bf2044f716b452e>

Shaping Digital Education: Enabling Factors for Quality, Equity and Efficiency

... This report seeks to guide governments in shaping digital education. Offering a range of perspectives for governments and education stakeholders, it analyses enabling factors that can support quality, equity and efficiency in the use of digital technologies in education systems. It provides a comprehensive review of current trends and emerging policies, covering school education, vocational education and training (VET) and higher education, highlighting pathways to support a cohesive and holistic policy framework for digital education.

<https://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/education/shaping-digital-education_bac4dc9f-en>

AI likely to spell end of traditional school classroom, leading expert says

Recent advances in AI are likely to spell the end of the traditional school classroom, one of the world’s leading experts on AI has predicted. Prof Stuart Russell, a British computer scientist based at the University of California, Berkeley, said that personalised ChatGPT-style tutors have the potential to hugely enrich education and widen global access by delivering personalised tuition to every household with a smartphone. The technology could feasibly deliver “most material through to the end of high school”, he said.

<https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2023/jul/07/ai-likely-to-spell-end-of-traditional-school-classroom-leading-expert-says>

AI Is Helping Us With Our Instructional Practice. Here's How

Artificial intelligence can be a timesaver for teachers and an eye-opener for students.

<https://www.edweek.org/technology/opinion-ai-is-helping-us-with-our-instructional-practice-heres-how/2023/07>

Instead of banning AI, schools should use it to enhance learning

I am 13, so I know first-hand the efforts to combat ChatGPT, and the enormous potential of such technologies, writes Amedeo Bettauer

<https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2023/jul/09/instead-of-banning-ai-schools-should-use-it-to-enhance-learning>

How kids pay the price for ransomware attacks on education

Modern ransomware attacks are as much about stealing data and threatening to leak it as they are about encrypting data. Which means that when a school or hospital is attacked, it's often students' and patients' data that's leaked if the ransom demand isn't met.

<https://www.malwarebytes.com/blog/news/2023/07/school-documents-outed-by-ransomware-gangs-can-have-long-lasting-consequences>

Can robots replace teachers in schools

The thought of having a robot teach students in a classroom may seem absurd, but this is something that scientists and engineers have been working on for a while. Trailblazing creators are gearing up to make such human-machine interactions feasible and beneficial to create a self-sustaining educational experience.

<https://www.educationtimes.com/article/careers-offbeat/99733149/can-robots-replace-teachers-in-schools>

2023 STEMinar: Using PBL in STEM - Insights from the classroom

In celebration of National Science Week 2023, join us to hear expert teachers share insights about working with the principles of Problem Based Learning (PBL) in their STEM teaching. Learn more about what this approach meant for their practice, and how they responded to the emerging opportunities and challenges.

<https://www.monash.edu/education/research/projects/exploring-problem-based-learning-in-schools/updates/2023-steminar-using-pbl-in-stem-insights-from-the-classroom>

Forget Barbie: Meet CSIRO's real-life STEM role models

There’s a powerful woman who’s been inspiring and exciting children for over six decades: the iconic Barbie!

<https://www.csiro.au/en/news/All/Articles/2023/July/barbie-STEM-careers>

Kazakh schoolchildren win silver at robotics championship in Australia

More than 300 children from 10 countries including China, Canada, India and the U.S. participated in Asia Pacific Open Championship held at the Macquarie University in Australia, Kazinform reports citing the Ministry of Enlightenment.

<https://www.inform.kz/en/kazakh-schoolchildren-win-silver-at-robotics-championship-in-australia_a4090602>

Local school teams among winners at annual RoboRAVE robotics competition

Budding tech entrepreneurs have put their robots to the test – climbing vertical surfaces, battling in sumo arenas and navigating labyrinthine mazes – at an annual national event.

<https://www.sunshinecoastnews.com.au/2023/07/19/students-put-their-robots-to-the-test-at-national-event/>

Young minds break boundaries at RoboRAVE

Climbing vertical surfaces, battling in sumo arenas and navigating labyrinthine mazes were just some of the weird and wonderful things seen at the annual RoboRAVE Australia robotics competition at the weekend (July 15 & 16).

<https://www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/news/young-minds-break-boundaries-at-roborave>

Special robots teleport sick children into the classroom

A special robotics program aimed at teleporting sick children into the classroom needs more funding to reach more kids across Australia.

<https://9now.nine.com.au/a-current-affair/special-robots-teleport-sick-aussie-children-into-the-classroom/62884bba-2645-4b48-80a2-1366642c242c>

Immersive technology – teaching and learning the augmented way

‘[When] fully embedded and aligned with the Australian Curriculum, AR can be an extraordinary tool for learning, particularly suited to use by primary-aged students.’ Dr Susan O’Donnell and Adrian Rayner give an update on the work of the VR Learning & Design Hub, which has been exploring the benefits of Augmented Reality in the classroom.

<https://www.teachermagazine.com/au_en/articles/immersive-technology-teaching-and-learning-the-augmented-way>

How should schools navigate the use of AI in classrooms?

For those of us who were school students in the 1990s, being without the Internet or a mobile phone wouldn’t be a catastrophe. We managed just fine without them, as did every generation before us.

<https://www.theeducatoronline.com/k12/news/how-should-schools-navigate-the-use-of-ai-in-classrooms/282869>

Women and girls in STEM: Cherie Davidson

Cherie Davidson has many people’s dream job – making video games. ‘Video game development is so fascinating because it requires deep, thoughtful collaboration between people with widely different perspectives and skill sets to create a single artistic work.’ Cherie says. ‘Every game development process is different – there’s always some unknown being explored and you never know quite what you’re making until you’ve made it.’

<https://www.industry.gov.au/news/women-and-girls-stem-cherie-davidson>

Global plaudits for technology innovators

Baulkham Hills North Public’s commitment to excellence and innovation has been recognised on the international stage as the school finished runners-up at the Global EdTech Awards 2023.

<https://education.nsw.gov.au/news/latest-news/global-plaudits-for-technology-innovators>

Arkana College students build a robot to compete on the international stage

Students from Arkana College, Kingsgrove are preparing to travel to Osaka, Japan next month to represent Australia at the 2023 Universal Robotics Challenge (URC) World Final.

<https://www.theleader.com.au/story/8270913/arkana-college-students-build-a-robot-to-compete-on-the-international-stage/>

Shaping Digital Education: Enabling Factors for Quality, Equity and Efficiency

Investment in education technology has surged worldwide over the past decade and digital education technologies are now a key resource for OECD education and training systems. If used effectively, they promise to transform teaching and learning practices, to reduce learning inequalities and to create more inclusive and efficient education systems. However, countries’ experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic exposed shortcomings in the extent to which digital technologies are currently enabling high-quality teaching and learning, and underlined the need for supportive policies and conditions to make use of their potential. The rapidly improving capabilities of Artificial Intelligence (AI) also bring new focus to the role of education policy in preparing learners for an AI-driven future. This report seeks to guide governments in shaping digital education. Offering a range of perspectives for governments and education stakeholders, it analyses enabling factors that can support quality, equity and efficiency in the use of digital technologies in education systems. It provides a comprehensive review of current trends and emerging policies, covering school education, vocational education and training (VET) and higher education, highlighting pathways to support a cohesive and holistic policy framework for digital education.

<https://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/education/shaping-digital-education_bac4dc9f-en>

What Is Threads? Here’s What Educators Think About the Newest Twitter Alternative

Meta's new competitor to Twitter launched on July 5, and many educators are already using it.

<https://www.edweek.org/technology/what-is-threads-heres-what-educators-think-about-the-newest-twitter-alternative/2023/07>

ChatGPT and PISA: Ensuring Our Education Systems Keep Up

ChatGPT and the likes remind us that many of things that are easiest to teach are now also easy to digitise and automate, and that too often we educate students for our past, rather than for their future. At the OECD, we have been tracking how well systems like ChatGPT fare on tasks from the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), the global yardstick of educational success that over 80 countries use to assess the knowledge and skills of 15-year-olds. This comparison shows rapid advances in the capabilities of artificial intelligence when compared with humans. In March 2022, ChatGPT could answer 28% of a set of PISA mathematics tasks, in March 2023 GPT answered 46% of the tasks successfully. In science, the corresponding percentages were 65% and 85%.

<https://oecdedutoday.com/chatgpt-and-pisa-ensuring-our-education-systems-keep-up/>

Chatbots in the classroom: Revolutionising Career Readiness with Cutting-Edge Technology

Imagine being able to embed an AI chatbot link into every classroom whiteboard. It could allow teachers and students to quickly carry out searches, get feedback, supply study tools and even provide personalised coaching on different subject matters. The interactive learning environment could revolutionise teaching practices; by making lessons more interesting for students and, at the same time, helping teachers save time by automating repetitive processes – freeing them up to concentrate on specific needs within the classroom. It is one vision for the future. But are chatbots really that effective? And are schools and the teaching profession ready to adapt?

<https://oecdedutoday.com/chatbots-in-the-classroom-revolutionising-career-readiness-with-cutting-edge-technology/>

AI trend drives rise in students wanting to study computing

School-leavers are choosing computing courses in record numbers, according to the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).

<https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-66178247>

Yes, AI could profoundly disrupt education. But maybe that’s not a bad thing

Education strikes at the heart of what makes us human. It drives the intellectual capacity and prosperity of nations. It has developed the minds that took us to the moon and eradicated previously incurable diseases. And the special status of education is why generative AI tools such as ChatGPT are likely to profoundly disrupt this sector. This isn’t a reflection of their intelligence, but of our failure to build education systems that nurture and value our unique human intelligence.

<https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2023/jul/14/ai-artificial-intelligence-disrupt-education-creativity-critical-thinking>

More Teachers Are Embracing ChatGPT. Students? Not So Much

Only 35 percent of students said in a recent survey that ChatGPT has positively impacted their schooling experience.

<https://www.edweek.org/technology/more-teachers-are-embracing-chatgpt-students-not-so-much/2023/07>

What Educators Know About Artificial Intelligence, in 3 Charts

Most educators say they have not received any professional development on artificial intelligence.

<https://www.edweek.org/technology/what-educators-know-about-artificial-intelligence-in-3-charts/2023/07>

What Do Educators Think of New Twitter Competitor 'Threads'?

Looking for Twitter alternatives to build professional learning networks and connect with peers, some educators said they felt "inspired" by conversations on the app while others compared it to shouting into a void.

<https://www.govtech.com/education/k-12/what-do-educators-think-of-new-twitter-competitor-threads>

Could TikTok Be Teachers' New Best Friend?

Teachers are turning to TikTok for content, strategy, and community.

<https://www.edweek.org/technology/could-tiktok-be-teachers-new-best-friend/2023/07>

Lewis Hamilton supports youth in Bradford to pursue career in STEM, motorsports

A new campaign has been launched in Bradford to support young people to take up careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and motorsports, a statement said.

<https://www.gg2.net/lewis-hamilton-supports-youth-in-bradford-to-pursue-career-in-stem-motorsports/>

Microsoft MakeCode release exciting new updates

Microsoft have announced some new features and exciting developments in their newly launched update to Microsoft MakeCode.

<https://www.microbit.org/news/2023-06-20/microsoft-makecode-release-exciting-new-updates/>

Support whole class teaching with micro:bit classroom

Run whole class MakeCode or Python coding lessons, share code with students and save their progress with our new online tool - micro:bit classroom.

<https://www.microbit.org/news/2023-07-19/support-whole-class-teaching-with-microbit-classroom/>

Girls want coding funds: the push to keep women in tech [AAP]

From teaching digital frogs to 'floss' to creating artificially intelligent chatbots, girls are cracking computer code these school holidays.

<https://au.news.yahoo.com/girls-want-coding-funds-push-053000669.html>

Infographic: How teachers feel about AI

A new report from McCrindle outlines 7 disruptors impacting the future of education, informed by survey data. One identified disruptor is artificial intelligence and technological change. In this infographic, we share some of the survey results for questions on artificial intelligence and technological change.

<https://www.teachermagazine.com/au_en/articles/infographic-how-teachers-feel-about-ai>

The virtual classroom

In the age of big data, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality, technology is advancing at an unprecedented rate. Education Matters reports on what educational technology means for students, teachers, and the classroom of the future –and how these emerging technologies are changing the way we think about learning.

<https://www.educationmattersmag.com.au/the-virtual-classroom/>

Class War investigation: Schoolkids uploading vicious school fight videos on social media

Vicious schoolyard bashings are being recorded and posted to Instagram profiles dedicated to inciting a growing school fight club craze across Australia.

<https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/parenting/school-life/class-war-investigation-schoolkids-uploading-vicious-school-fight-videos-on-social-media/news-story/27f44244262d4db74adf45f577ec4db1>

Shock number of ChatGPT school cheats revealed [subscription]

High schoolers and university students are fessing up to using artificial intelligence to cheat on assignments, though experts say they’re the “overwhelming minority”. See the survey stats.

<https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/new-south-wales-education/overwhelming-minority-new-report-reveals-one-in-ten-gen-zs-use-ai-to-cheat/news-story/51972c5d3be0ac61cbea67903db7ec01>

How a Narooma school became a global robotics competitor

Narooma on the NSW far south coast is a popular tourist destination, famous for its oysters and dairy. But students there have put the town on the global map for something entirely different: Robotics.

<https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/drive/how-a-narooma-school-became-a-global-robotics-competitor-/102516116>

Hong Kong rolls out first AI curriculum for junior secondary students, including lessons on ChatGPT, with ‘lives definitely affected by artificial intelligence’

Hong Kong has rolled out the first curriculum in the city on artificial intelligence for junior secondary students, including on the use of ChatGPT as well as ethics and social impacts of the technology.

<https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/education/article/3224954/hong-kong-rolls-out-first-ai-curriculum-junior-secondary-students-including-chatgpt-lives-definitely>

TikTok Teacher Prep: Preservice Teachers Are Getting Inspiration From the Platform

Some preservice teachers find TikTok videos more helpful than formal professional development, one researcher found.

<https://www.edweek.org/technology/tiktok-teacher-prep-preservice-teachers-are-getting-inspiration-from-the-platform/2023/06>

ISTELive 23: Using Student Data to Improve Equity for K-12

Sam Callahan, a third grade teacher and data consultant, says schools can use self-assessments and better systems of organizing and analyzing data to help teachers address racial disparities.

<https://www.govtech.com/education/k-12/istelive-23-using-student-data-to-improve-equity-for-k-12>

ISTELive 23: AI + Web3 Revolution Coming to a School Near You

Former educators Nate McClennen and Vriti Saraf shared their vision of future schools powered by emerging technologies, namely artificial intelligence, blockchain and the metaverse, at ISTELive 23 on Monday.

<https://www.govtech.com/education/k-12/istelive-23-ai-web3-revolution-coming-to-a-school-near-you>

New Google for Education tools for how you teach, learn and manage

At Google for Education, we're constantly working to develop new products and tools that help students learn more effectively, and help educators teach more efficiently, no matter where they are or how they teach. Part of that commitment is making sure every student and educator has access to tools that create more personal, collaborative, accessible and safe teaching and learning experiences.

<https://blog.google/outreach-initiatives/education/google-for-education-iste-2023/>

New education apps and accessible content for Chromebooks

In recent years, we’ve seen more and more schools assign Chromebooks to each student. And now, as more educators turn to Chromebook, we’re making sure we build features like Screencast and cast moderator to help make teaching and learning more personal, collaborative, accessible — and as always, safer and sustainable.

<https://blog.google/outreach-initiatives/education/chromebook-iste-2023/>

New teaching and learning features in Google Workspace for Education

Every day, students and teachers around the world rely on Google Workspace for Education to plan lessons, get their homework done and more. Today, we’re sharing updates that make these tools even more accessible, collaborative, engaging and secure.

<https://blog.google/outreach-initiatives/education/workspace-edu-updates-2023/>

ow Can STEM Education Shape the Future

Think of the great inventors and geniuses from the past: Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, and Albert Einstein. Did you know that each of these men had traditional schooling, with some not even finishing? Even though they were born, natural thinkers and innovators think:

<https://stemeducationguide.com/how-can-stem-education-shape-the-future/>

What Are The Characteristics of a STEM Classroom

STEM Education is a rising fast curriculum. It first began to gain even more notoriety in the early 2000s, receiving several federal grants as a research-based curriculum and is now frequently included in teacher training and development.

<https://stemeducationguide.com/characteristics-of-stem-classroom/>

Coding made easy with a micro:bit and the MakeCode platform

The thought of teaching coding can be daunting for some, but thankfully it’s easy to get started with the micro:bit using the Microsoft MakeCode platform – and there are plenty of training resources available if you do get stuck

<https://www.bbc.co.uk/teach/microbit/coding-made-easy-microbit-makecode/zysnb7h>

Year 4 reading outcomes steady despite Covid disruptions – major study

Australian year 4 students' literacy levels have remained steady during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to an international study.

<https://www.theeducatoronline.com/k12/news/year-4-reading-outcomes-steady-despite-covid-disruptions--major-study/282482>

‘Not good for Australia’: Education costs rise faster than most household bills

... Association of Heads of Independent Schools of Australia chief executive Christopher Duncan said education price rises were driven by increases in teacher pay and the cost of running small classes. He said steep additions in compliance and technology costs, plus investments in student wellbeing and disability support were other contributors. 

<https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/not-good-for-australia-education-costs-escalate-faster-than-most-other-household-bills-20230502-p5d4xy.html>

Girls in Tech fostering the next generation of women in STEM

Hundreds of high school students learned about the vital ideas and perspectives women bring to STEM fields at an annual event presented by CommBank and Telstra.

<https://www.commbank.com.au/articles/newsroom/2023/05/girls-in-tech-stem-career.html>

From seed to screen: Indigenous garden goes digital

Students engage in virtual tours and learn about plants, recipes, and STEM education in a captivating Indigenous garden.

<https://www.csiro.au/en/news/All/Articles/2023/May/Indigenous-garden>

PBL in STEM – enhancing learning and teaching

In the second of 3 articles about research into Problem Based Learning in schools, teachers involved in the project discuss how it has enabled them to reconsider their classroom practice and the conditions necessary for meaningful STEM learning.

<https://www.teachermagazine.com/au_en/articles/pbl-in-stem-enhancing-learning-and-teaching>

Review seeks to increase diversity in the nation's STEM studies and jobs

An independent review has been established to find ways to increase diversity in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education, careers and industries.

<https://www.sbs.com.au/language/punjabi/en/podcast-episode/diversity-in-stem-review-sharing-experiences-to-encourage-the-participation-of-diverse-people-in-stem/tht9bxyfx>

Grok Academy on how schools can embrace AI and new technology

The advancement of technology such as AI and ChatGPT is a hot topic in the education sector, with much debate about the potential value or threat posed by these tools.

<https://www.educationmattersmag.com.au/how-schools-can-embrace-ai-and-new-technology/>

New report explores Australia’s ed-tech landscape in 2023

Half of Australia’s secondary schools are now dual learning, using a mix of both print and digital learning resources in their classrooms, a new report shows. And the digital creep in Australia’s schools only looks set to grow, with nearly 40% looking to accelerate their technology strategy and become highly tech enabled in the short to medium term.

<https://www.theeducatoronline.com/k12/news/new-report-explores-australias-edtech-landscape-in-2023/282491>

Bees and their importance to cropping and the environment is the focus of a new online education hub

Classrooms across Australia could be abuzz with bee knowledge, thanks to a new online education hub dedicated to help children understand the vital role bees and other insects play in the environment and food production.

<https://www.abc.net.au/radio/programs/vic-statewide-mornings/bee-school-teacher/102356918>

Welcome, to Outback Musical

Every two years, outback kids across an area twice the size of Victoria come together to perform a most unlikely musical. Whether they’re bull riders, dancers or lawn bowlers, they’re all discovering themselves in isolation.

<https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-05-13/kids-rehearse-for-a-year-online-to-perform-outback-musical/102120636>

eSafety Commissioner creates special resources for children 5-8 years to be safe online

The eSafety Commissioner has created a package of resources for educators, parents and carers to help children develop their online safety skills in the early to middle primary school years (typically aged between five and eight years).

<https://thesector.com.au/2023/05/16/esafety-commissioner-creates-special-resources-for-children-5-8-years-to-be-safe-online/>

New eSafety tools prepare primary aged children for life online

The eSafety Commissioner has created a package of resources for educators, parents and carers to help children develop their online safety skills in the early to middle primary school years.

<https://www.educationmattersmag.com.au/esafety-tools-prepare-primary-aged-children-for-life-online/>

New tools to help prepare 5-8s for life online

The eSafety Commissioner has created a package of resources for educators, parents and carers to help children develop their online safety skills in the early to middle primary school years.

<https://www.esafety.gov.au/newsroom/media-releases/new-tools-to-help-prepare-5-8s-for-life-online>

Let's Talk Teaching Podcast

Join Dr Rebecca Cooper, former teacher turned education academic, as she invites teachers and Monash University Alumni with different educational backgrounds, experiences and learnings to share their insights on a number of topics that teachers in Australian classrooms are facing today.

<https://www.monash.edu/education/teachspace/articles/lets-talk-teaching-podcast>

Hundreds of students return to remote learning and masks amid COVID outbreaks

Almost a dozen public schools have returned to remote learning this week amid COVID-19 outbreaks that have also prompted one Sydney campus to reinstate a temporary mask mandate.

<https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/hundreds-of-students-return-to-remote-learning-and-masks-amid-covid-outbreaks-20230518-p5d9fs.html>

Low-orbit satellites boost internet for remote school kids

Unreliable internet is a struggle for school kids in remote areas. The Territory government is hoping new funding for low-orbit satellites will help.

<https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-05-16/satellites-boost-internet-for-remote-school-kids/102350288>

Robots, a barbershop and bagpipes: a Sydney school reinvents its tough past and what it means to love learning

The principal at Granville Boys high school is sick of talking about its one-time reputation for being a difficult, violent school. Noel Dixon, who has been principal at the western Sydney school for just over four years, instead wants to talk about the success of their robotics team, their barbershop program or their bagpipe band.

<https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/may/14/robots-a-barbershop-and-bagpipes-a-sydney-school-reinvents-its-tough-past-and-what-it-means-to-love-learning>

Upgrading for security at Newington College

Education has changed significantly in the last handful of years. The disruptions that forced students into remote learning catalysed most schools to perform a digital transformation. Today, these changes persist, particularly in hybrid classes that function largely online. Schools are seeing expanded use of education applications, with new ways of organising and distributing information, and various channels and methods for communicating with students and guardians alike.

<https://edublog.microsoft.com/en-au/2023/05/upgrading-for-security-at-newington-college/>