In recent years, my experience working closely with Primary School teachers has highlighted a common challenge many face: grappling with the implementation of the Digital Technologies Curriculum. This new workshop aims to demystify this important subject and offer a solution that even those without a programming background can embrace with confidence.

This new workshop I’m excited to introduce encompasses several vital aspects:

1. Unpacking the Digital Technologies Curriculum: Sometimes the educational jargon within the curriculum can feel overwhelming, and this workshop takes the time to break down the Digital Technologies Curriculum into simple, easy-to-understand terminology. I believe in making the complex seem less daunting, ensuring that you and your fellow educators leave with a clear grasp of what’s required.   What is an ‘algorithm’?  Why should I care about ‘branching’ and ‘iteration’? What’s the deal with the new ‘Privacy and Security’ strand?

2. Digital Technologies vs Digital Literacy: Do you know the difference?  At it’s core, Digital Literacy (ICT as a general capability in 8.4) encompasses the knowledge of digital systems, data and information, and how they can be used across multiple parts of the curriculum whereas Digital Technologies uses computational thinking to create digital solutions.  We’ll look at what that means at a classroom level.

3. Free and Low-Cost Resources: We recognise the budget constraints that many schools face, but covering the Digital Technologies curriculum doesn’t have to break the bank. Our workshop equips you with a toolbox of free and low-cost resources that are not only readily accessible but also quick and easy to implement in your classroom.  Do you have a cupboard of Tech that is just gathering dust?  We’ll look at ways to incorporate what valuable resources you might already have at school.

Don’t have a chance to make it to a workshop?  Here are just some of the resources that are covered during this workshop that you can explore in your own time!

• Scratch Programming – https://scratch.mit.edu/
• MicroBits – https://microbit.org/
• Digital Technologies Hub – https://www.digitaltechnologieshub.edu.au/
• Grok Academy – https://grokacademy.org/
• CS Unplugged – https://www.csunplugged.org/en/

Workshop Options

Individual Teachers – I run these workshops in a variety of locations thoroughout Queensland.   Check out the Workshop schedule for upcoming sessions

Schools – If your school is keen on upskilling a number of staff, I can come and visit you and tailor sessions to best suit.  Options include:

• Full day (9am – 3pm weekdays or weekends)
• 2 half day session (any 3hr period during normal school hours)
• 4 x twilight session (3:00pm – 4:30pm weekdays)
• Other?   I’m flexible! Let me know what might work for you.

Would you like more information, please get in touch!