Director’s welcome

Have you fully explored the power of a microcontroller like a micro:bit, or had time to experiment with some of the newer resources that Minecraft Education offers? In this issue, we show you some of the latest features of these favourite tech tools from the classroom. If you are yet to bring this type of technology into your classroom, rest assured you don’t need all the answers - learn with your students - the resources are here to support you all!’

Linda Lazenby Director, Digital Teaching and Learning

Teacher feature

Kate Jones

Digital Learning Advisor

What’s your role?

My current role is Digital Learning Advisor with the Rural Access Gap program and this year I am specifically supporting schools affected by floods in order to further develop their digital resiliency in the aftermath of natural disasters. I love this role as I get to work closely with schools and contextualise support to what they need in terms of digital uplift.

Give us an insight into your teaching journey...

I kicked off my teaching career in Madrid, Spain where I taught in a bilingual high school in a variety of subjects. It was an incredible experience as I was able to travel, learn Spanish, eat delicious food and teach high schoolers which was very new for me! Back in Australia, I taught across many grades and took on the job of computer coordinator in my school which is what ignited my passion for technology. I was fortunate to present at EduTech, the Younger Creators Conference and a few Teach Meets. I became an Assistant Principal and strengthened my love of collaborating with teachers especially when integrating technology meaningfully into teaching and learning programs.

What do you wish you’d known about tech in the DoE in the beginning?

I wish I had known what was available to us as DoE teachers in terms of professional learning and existing licenses of products, not to mention the fabulous templates, as this would have saved me a heap of time!

Give us an example of how you successfully integrate technology into your teaching and learning programs.

My favourite tech integration lesson is using a coding program to engage students to demonstrate their understanding of particular KLAs. This is when they move from being the consumer of technology to being the creators. For example, we used Scratch Jnr with ES1 students to code a game where students had to show their understanding of equal groups. We were able to differentiate the activity for all the learners in the room by changing the group sizes, plus add accessibility features in. It was such a great learning experience...and incredibly fun!

Do you have a favourite tech tool?

I love the Sphero indi! The little car is so cute and the coloured tiles are durable and versatile. Having this type of tech now available in the stem.T4L kits means that even our youngest learners can engage in coding. I also love how easy it is for teachers and students alike who are new to it. I recommend having a go with Sphero indi to anyone.