Digital Technologies Program

Investing in Digital Technology capability in Geelong region schools

Designed to build the capability of Digital Technology teaching in the Geelong region and promote increased student attainment in Digital Technology related STEM career pathways.

There are two elements to the program:

1. Student Program – Internet of Things (IOT) and Gaming with Python programs

Year 9 and 10 students from the Geelong region have a choice of exploring the Internet of Things through the application of coding to computer and robotics technology and/or Gaming with Python; a highly sought after programing language.  

For more information see Building Digital Technology capability in Geelong region schools, IoT Flyer, Application Form and/or Gaming with Python flyer and GwP Application Form.

2. Teacher Program – D-Tech Teachers’ Learning Community

The D-Tech Teachers’ Learning Community is for teachers in primary and secondary schools to support their mastery of new content and teaching practices to increase student engagement and attainment in digital technology and STEM related education, training and career pathways.

For more information see Building digital technology capability in Geelong region schools 

Fast Facts:

• The IoT Program and Gaming with Python programs are delivered by The Gordon ICT Department

• The D-Tech Teachers’ Learning Community is hosted by The Gordon ICT Department and provides a professional learning program for digital technology teachers from the Geelong region including:

• Network meetings

• Full and half-day seminars and workshops with funding support from Skilling the Bay

• VCAA Specialist Digital Technology Teachers facilitation and leadership

• An average of 38 staff from 16 schools attended each seminar in 2016

• Matthew Flinders Girls SC Year 10 Digital Technology class piloted the IoT program in 2016

• 156 Year 9 & 10 students from across the Geelong region completed the IoT and/or Gaming with Python program over 2016-2017

• 100% IoT Program students placed a higher level of importance on completing a STEM qualification following completion of the IoT program

• 100% of IoT  and 83% of GwP students have a better understanding of the importance of digital technologies for a wide range of career pathways

Highlights

All secondary schools in the Geelong region including Lorne / Airey’s Inlet and Lavers Hill were represented in one or more of the Digital Technology teachers seminars.  The collaboration between The Gordon, Deakin STEM educators and VCAA Digital Technology Specialist Teachers provided targeted and expert guidance for teachers seeking to build their respective school’s digital technology capacity in line with the newly mandated Victorian Digital Technologies Curriculum.

The success of the program enabled its scope to be expanded to include primary sector schools for 2017 which was very strongly supported with 109 teachers from over 40 schools represented.

Year 9 and 10 IoT and GwP student participant survey data and anecdotal feedback from teachers and parents rated the programs very highly as adding value to school programs and enhancing students’ digital technology learning experiences.
 

To register your interest or stay informed about the program, please enter your details here:

Please contact Chris Goy cgoy@gordontafe.edu.au for more information.