Insights from our 3rd Mel-Based Professional Learning Day for theSTEMproblem

#theSTEMproblem is a research project funded by an ARC Linkage Grant, and involves researchers, teachers, and support staff from Monash University, the University of Queensland (UQ), Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS) and Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) working together to refine and implement a framework for Problem Based Learning (PBL) in primary and secondary school STEM education.

<https://www.monash.edu/education/research/projects/exploring-problem-based-learning-in-schools/updates/insights-from-our-3rd-mel-based-professional-learning-day-for-thestemproblem>

The role of technology in addressing teacher shortages

Teachers are leaving the profession in record numbers and without a comprehensive long-term approach that focuses on attracting and retaining quality teachers, this problem will continue to worsen over the coming years. Andrew Smith, CEO of Education Services Australia, discusses how technology could help.

<https://www.educationmattersmag.com.au/the-role-of-technology-in-addressing-teacher-shortages/>

1 million students get eSafety guidance from a trusted source

The eSafety Commissioner has congratulated participants in its Trusted eSafety Provider program on delivering education programs to a quarter of all Australian school students last financial year.

<https://www.educationmattersmag.com.au/1-million-students-get-esafety-guidance-from-a-trusted-source/>

Behaviour Management Episode 13: Professor Ken Rigby on bullying in schools

Our guest for this episode of our Behaviour Management podcast series is Professor Ken Rigby – Adjunct Professor at the University of South Australia and a leading international researcher in the area of bullying in schools.

<https://www.teachermagazine.com/au_en/articles/behaviour-management-episode-13-professor-ken-rigby-on-bullying-in-schools>

Robo-marking in Australian schools: no school left behind

Automated grading technologies could soon be rolled out in Australian schools but without robust national guidelines and an independent advisory body, some schools could be left behind.

<https://www.sydney.edu.au/news-opinion/news/2022/11/16/robo-marking-australian-schools-artificial-intelligence-education-expert.html>

How do Australian teachers feel about their work in 2022?

New Monash research offers insights into how Australian teachers are feeling, and what needs to change.

<https://www.monash.edu/education/teachspace/articles/how-do-australian-teachers-feel-about-their-work-in-2022>

Recent study of detrimental online habits which is affecting learning ‘is a real concern’

The Australian’s media writer Sophie Elsworth says the recent study showing online habits for Australian kids is having a detrimental effect on their learning “is a real concern”. “There also some duties on parents as well at home to control the use of their kids on these devices,” she told Sky News host Peta Credlin.

<https://www.news.com.au/national/recent-study-of-detrimental-online-habits-which-is-affecting-learning-is-a-real-concern/video/3ced663dd1a5887f9302e6f98fb0cd1c>

Science challenge helping students discover a love of STEM for over 20 years

... The Science and Engineering Challenge is an outreach program founded by the University of Newcastle in the year 2000. Since then, it has grown to involve over 120 Rotary clubs and 30 Universities, reaching over 1,000 schools and around 30,000 students each year, in every state and territory in Australia.

<https://www.newcastle.edu.au/newsroom/college-of-engineering-science-and-environment/science-challenge-helping-students-discover-a-love-of-stem-for-over-20-years>

Designing playable video games with primary students

Year 5 and 6 students from MidCoast Christian College in regional New South Wales were tasked with designing their own video games. We speak with educator Melissa Tindall about the process of designing the games from scratch, and how it allowed students to explore the 21st Century skills of critical thinking, creativity, collaboration and communication.

<https://www.teachermagazine.com/au_en/articles/designing-playable-video-games-with-primary-students>

Video Games Could Actually Be Good for Kids’ Brains, Study Finds

A new scientific study suggests that video gaming may be associated with better cognitive performance in children.

<https://www.edweek.org/technology/video-games-could-actually-be-good-for-kids-brains-study-finds/2022/11>

Google Play streamlines policies around kids’ apps as regulations tighten

Google Play today announced a series of changes to its programs and policies around apps designed for children. The company is describing the update as an expansion of its previously launched “Teacher Approved” program, which includes a review process where teachers and experts vetted apps not just for safety and security elements, but for educational quality and other factors. The newly revamped policies will now impact how apps qualify for this program, which allows apps to gain entry to the Play Store’s “Kids” tab.

<https://techcrunch.com/2022/11/16/google-play-streamlines-policies-around-kids-apps-as-regulations-tighten/>

Empowering student learning with Math Assistant

Math teachers, what if there was a way to help students who say “I’m not a math person” or “I’m just not good at math”? When a student lacks math confidence, every challenge along the way simply confirms their self-doubt. These challenges only intensify as students move through their K-12 school experience and their needs and the course content continue to evolve. The good news is that Math Assistant, found in Microsoft OneNote, helps students find their math confidence and gain important math skills through inclusive, individualized features.

<https://educationblog.microsoft.com/en-us/2022/11/empowering-student-learning-with-math-assistant>

5 Microsoft Education tools for an inclusive classroom

An inclusive classroom is made up of many different learners with unique needs and abilities, that want to feel they belong regardless of their identity, learning preferences, or skills.

<https://educationblog.microsoft.com/en-us/2022/10/5-microsoft-education-tools-for-an-inclusive-classroom>

Keeping students safer with cybersecurity awareness

A common misconception is that young people, many of whom grew up using tablets or touchscreen phones from an early age, are inherently tech savvy. For many, digital safety is a glaring area of growth. K-12 education faces a staggering number of security threats and receives over 80% of workplace malware attacks. By pairing focused, consistent digital safety instruction with Microsoft’s security tools like Defender and Intune for Education, students can safely navigate their digital lives.

<https://educationblog.microsoft.com/en-us/2022/10/keeping-students-safer-with-cybersecurity-awareness>

Developing interest in computer science with Microsoft MakeCode

As part of Microsoft’s mission to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more, our work in computer science education is critical to ensuring that all students have the opportunity to learn foundational computing skills. The mission of Microsoft MakeCode is to empower the next generation of technology creators through fun projects, immediate results, and both block and text editors for learners at different experience and grade levels.

<https://educationblog.microsoft.com/en-us/2022/11/developing-interest-in-computer-science-with-microsoft-makecode>

Developing interest in computer science with Microsoft MakeCode

As part of Microsoft’s mission to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more, our work in computer science education is critical to ensuring that all students have the opportunity to learn foundational computing skills. The mission of Microsoft MakeCode is to empower the next generation of technology creators through fun projects, immediate results, and both block and text editors for learners at different experience and grade levels.

<https://educationblog.microsoft.com/en-us/2022/11/developing-interest-in-computer-science-with-microsoft-makecode>

Hour of Code micro:bit activities

The Micro:bit Educational Foundation have added three activities to code.org's Hour of Code website

<https://www.microbit.org/news/2022-11-10/hour-of-code-microbit-activities/>

Quantum computing for high school students

The Grok Academy Ltd has announced a new Science and Digital Technologies Challenge for Australia’s students. It is teaming up with Telstra, Commonwealth Bank and Silicon Quantum Computing to come up with an Introduction to Quantum Computing (login required). Karsten, Dominic, Penny, Owen from The Grok Academy tell us all about it.

<https://www.educationmattersmag.com.au/quantum-computing-for-high-school-students/>

First scholarships for $41m women in STEM program

The first 50 recipients of the government's $41 million program to increase participation of women in science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) were announced at Parliament House on Wednesday.

<https://ia.acs.org.au/article/2022/first-scholarships-for--41m-women-in-stem-program-.html>

Diversity in STEM expert panel announced

The Albanese Government today announced the independent expert review panel for the Pathway to Diversity in STEM Review as well as the terms of reference. The review is part of the Government’s commitment to boost diversity and increase the participation of women in Australia’s science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) sectors.

<https://www.minister.industry.gov.au/ministers/husic/media-releases/diversity-stem-expert-panel-announced>

Science and tech superstars to support diversity

A computer scientist monitoring space debris and a hydroclimatologist investigating how floods and droughts begin are just some of the 60 outstanding women and non-binary people in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) who have been named the latest Superstars of STEM.

<https://www.minister.industry.gov.au/ministers/husic/media-releases/science-and-tech-superstars-support-diversity>

Diversity ‘more than just women’, says STEM review chief

Sally-Ann Williams’ journey to becoming a deep-tech investor might have been by “accident and hard work” and a generous dash of talent, but her mission as head of a new federal taskforce to instigate more diversity in science and technology is to ensure others have a “visible pathway”.

<https://www.afr.com/work-and-careers/careers/diversity-more-than-just-women-says-stem-review-chief-20221123-p5c0lx>

Sally-Ann Williams to lead STEM diversity panel

Chief Executive Officer of technology incubator Cicada Innovations Sally-Ann Williams will chair an independent expert review panel for the Pathway to Diversity in STEM Review announced today by the federal government.

<https://www.aumanufacturing.com.au/sally-ann-williams-to-lead-stem-diversity-panel>

Science teachers named winners of Prime Minister’s prize

The 2022 winners of the Prime Minister’s Prizes for Excellence in Science Teaching have just been announced. In this article, we share the contributions the primary and secondary school teachers are making to Science education.

<https://www.teachermagazine.com/au_en/articles/science-teachers-named-winners-of-prime-ministers-prize>

Meet Australia’s newest Superstars of STEM

Australia’s newest Superstars of STEM – 60 diverse brilliant scientists, technologists, engineers and mathematicians who want to step into the media spotlight as science experts – will be officially announced today by the Minister for Industry and Science, Ed Husic MP.

<https://scienceandtechnologyaustralia.org.au/meet-australias-newest-superstars-of-stem-2/>

Superstars of STEM 2023 announcement by Minister for Industry & Science Ed Husic MP

Thanks everyone, and I do want to recognise we are on Darug Land and pay respect to Elders, past and present. It’s great to have Andrew [Charlton] here as the Federal Member for Parramatta and someone who I quoted his work so often, I was expecting him to invoice me and now he’s a Federal Member, I can’t get those invoices!

<https://scienceandtechnologyaustralia.org.au/superstars-of-stem-2023-announcement-by-minister-for-industry-science-ed-husic-mp/>

Personalised learning is billed as the ‘future’ of schooling: what is it and could it work?

It is not uncommon for kids to complain about school, but studies show significant numbers of Australian students are actually disengaged with their education.

<https://theconversation.com/personalised-learning-is-billed-as-the-future-of-schooling-what-is-it-and-could-it-work-194630>

The boy who loves buses: A tale of online safety

Julie Inman Grant, eSafety Commissioner, tells a tale of online safety about a boy named Ben, and highlights how to seek support and guidance regarding online safety of children.

<https://www.educationmattersmag.com.au/the-boy-who-loves-buses-a-tale-of-online-safety/>

Cyberbullying intervention – practical considerations for teachers

In this year’s Teacher survey, lots of you wanted more information on how best to support students targeted by cyberbullying. Dr Roberta Thompson is a Research Fellow at the Griffith Institute for Educational Research. Here, she discusses strategies to help teachers feel more confident in dealing with cyberbullying, related research findings, and helpful resources.

<https://www.teachermagazine.com/au_en/articles/cyberbullying-intervention-practical-considerations-for-teachers>

New syllabus for students to thrive in a digital world

Creating the next generation of tech leaders, entrepreneurs and experts is at the heart of the new Computing Technologies curriculum released today.

<https://www.nsw.gov.au/media-releases/new-syllabus-for-students-to-thrive-a-digital-world-0>

New cyber security course rolling out to NSW schools

NSW secondary students will be taught the skills of the future with an Australian-first cyber security course developed collaboratively by the NSW Department of Education, industry and Cyber Security NSW.

<https://education.nsw.gov.au/news/latest-news/new-cyber-security-course-rolling-out-to-nsw-schools>

Students prepare for cyber future

Students across NSW are to be prepared for jobs in a fast-changing digital world following the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) launching a new Computing Technologies curriculum.

<https://psnews.com.au/2022/11/22/students-prepare-for-cyber-future/>

NSW adds cyber education to school curriculum

Hands-on cyber security education will become widespread in NSW classrooms next year as the state government kicks off a new curriculum unit based on ‘smart city sandbox’ networks that will be installed in secondary school classrooms across the state.

<https://ia.acs.org.au/article/2022/nsw-adds-cyber-education-to-school-curriculum.html>

NSW govt to add coding, cybersecurity to secondary school curriculum

Secondary school students across New South Wales will start to study coding, cyber security and business information systems in 2024 as part of an updated curriculum.

<https://www.crn.com.au/news/nsw-govt-to-add-coding-cybersecurity-to-secondary-school-curriculum-588049>

New cyber security course rolling out to NSW schools

An Australian first will see NSW students being taught the skills needed to become future cyber security experts.

<https://www.educationmattersmag.com.au/new-cyber-security-course-rolling-out-to-nsw-schools/>

Why NSW kids will learn to code from age 12 [subscription]

Children are set to become experts at coding under a new plan to overhaul the state’s computer syllabus for NSW high school students.

<https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/new-south-wales-education/children-to-learn-to-code-from-12-years-old-under-new-nsw-plan/news-story/ccdab3ced8e48c11766a7e6929ec8d1c>

Narooma High School robotics team two-time Australian champions [subscription]

Imagine designing a robot that can shoot balls into a goal, or climb monkey bars.

<https://www.begadistrictnews.com.au/story/7987508/narooma-high-champion-robotics-students-get-shout-out-in-federal-parliament/>

NSW Labor wants to ban phones in schools [AAP]

Mobile phones will be banned in NSW high schools if the Labor Party wins next year's state election.

<https://au.news.yahoo.com/nsw-labor-wants-ban-phones-214227774.html>

NSW Labor to limit smartphones in public high schools under ‘bell to bell’ ban

Students’ access to mobile phones will be restricted in NSW public schools if a Labor government is elected next year.

<https://7news.com.au/news/education/nsw-labor-to-limit-smartphones-in-public-high-schools-under-bell-to-bell-ban-c-8128011>

In 2020, universities shifted to online learning – three lessons from students’ experiences

For young people who were in university at the height of the COVID pandemic, the university experience was suddenly radically different to what they had expected.

<https://theconversation.com/in-2020-universities-shifted-to-online-learning-three-lessons-from-students-experiences-193175>

How your school can make students’ screentime safer

When schools went into lockdown at the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, the protracted period of remote learning that followed caused children’s’ screentime to rise to unprecedented levels.

<https://www.theeducatoronline.com/k12/news/how-your-school-can-make-students-screentime-safer/281199>

The NBN and mobile connectivity: Boosting the NBN and connecting regional and rural Australia

Fast and reliable internet and mobile coverage is essential to remain connected, access services and support businesses. Connectivity helps regions to thrive and be resilient to natural disasters. A $2.4 billion investment in NBN Co will extend fibre access to 1.5 million more premises, including over 660,000 homes in regional Australia. A year of free broadband for up to 30,000 unconnected families will help students access learning materials from home.

<https://budget.gov.au/2022-23-october/content/stronger-economy.htm#nbn>

Building home-grown STEM talent a focus in 2022 budget

Science and future students will be major winners under the new 2022 budget, as the government focuses on building Australia’s future STEM and manufacturing capabilities, however, support for research has fallen short.

<https://www.aumanufacturing.com.au/building-home-grown-stem-talent-a-focus-in-2022-budget>

New report sets out pathways for students' future STEM careers

Australia needs to urgently rethink its approach to encouraging careers in STEM in order to tackle the growing national skills crisis, a new report shows.

<https://www.theeducatoronline.com/k12/news/new-report-sets-out-pathways-for-students-future-stem-careers/281294>

Lockheed Martin Australia and STEM Punks launch space education program

Lockheed Martin Australia and STEM Punks have launched a space-focused educational program to educate and upskill Australia’s future space workforce.

<https://www.ferret.com.au/news/lockheed-martin-stem-punks-launch-education-program/>

STEM industry leaders gather to tackle skills gap

release concrete recommendations for helping an “unprepared” Australia claw its way out of the STEM skills crisis, as hundreds of government, academic, and industry leaders meet in Sydney to brainstorm solutions.

<https://ia.acs.org.au/article/2022/stem-industry-leaders-gather-to-tackle-skills-gap.html>

Federal Budget to allow for three years of e-safety student learning

Digital safety programs will be rolled out to every Australian school through a $6 million federal government investment to better protect children from harms in the online world.

<https://www.kidsnews.com.au/technology/federal-budget-to-allow-for-three-years-of-esafety-student-learning/news-story/ae3398545b949440822b76c8b1b5ed44>

Pandemic review says ‘schools should have stayed open’

One of the most contentious decisions taken by state governments during the COVID-19 crisis – the mass closure of schools – was avoidable and should not be repeated unless strong health advice outweighs the cost of closures, an independent review of Australia’s pandemic response has found.

<https://www.theage.com.au/national/pandemic-review-says-schools-should-have-stayed-open-20221019-p5br0y.html>  

Palo Alto Networks CyberFit Nation Education Program in Australia

Education and awareness of our digital safety and security have never been more important, which is why the CyberFit Nation education program has been expanded to address the unique cyber security learning needs of everyone in Australia. ... CyberFit Nation is a comprehensive education portfolio that aims to make cyber security education accessible to all. It features master classes and clinics for a range of audiences, from Kindy through to the boardroom.

<https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/2022/10/cyberfit-nation-education-program-in-australia/>

How your school can make students’ screentime safer

When schools went into lockdown at the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, the protracted period of remote learning that followed caused children’s’ screentime to rise to unprecedented levels.

<https://www.theeducatoronline.com/k12/news/how-your-school-can-make-students-screentime-safer/281199>

What does ‘preparing students for the future’ really mean?

From a quick glance at Australia’s education landscape, it’s clear to most that the days of teaching young people to work in factories, clock-in and clock-out, are long gone.

<https://www.theeducatoronline.com/k12/news/what-does-preparing-students-for-the-future-really-mean/281304>

Cyberbullying at an all-time high: report [subscription]

Australian kids are experiencing more abuse online than ever with revenge porn rife among teens.

<https://educationhq.com/news/cyberbullying-at-an-all-time-high-report-132561/>

New science syllabus designed for future leaders in STEM

Creating the next generation of leaders in STEM is the focus of the proposed new Science and Technology syllabuses unveiled today for consultation.

<https://www.nsw.gov.au/media-releases/science-syllabus>

New science syllabus designed for future leaders in STEM

Tangible learning experiences and real-world challenges are at the core of a new science syllabus. Creating the next generation of leaders in STEM is the focus of the proposed new Science and Technology syllabuses unveiled for consultation by the NSW government as part of the ongoing delivery of the most comprehensive Curriculum Reform in a generation.

<https://www.educationmattersmag.com.au/new-science-syllabus-designed-for-future-leaders-in-stem/>

New STEM syllabus to hit NSW schools

The NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) is proposing three new syllabuses for students in Years 7 to 10 covering Science, Technology and Drama.

<https://psnews.com.au/2022/10/25/new-stem-syllabus-to-hit-nsw-schools/>

Remote learning to cost NSW kids $16.1b [AAP]

Shutting down face-to-face learning, particularly in western Sydney, will cost NSW students more than $16 billion in future lifetime earnings, a new report has found.

<https://au.news.yahoo.com/remote-learning-cost-nsw-kids-041500516.html>

International day against violence and bullying at school including cyberbullying

School violence and bullying including cyberbullying is widespread and affects a significant number of children and adolescents.

<https://www.unesco.org/en/days/against-school-violence-and-bullying>

Bringing digital technology education to every school in Australia

As the CEO of Grok Academy, Dr James Curran’s mission is simple: to bring quality, accessible digital technology education to every student and teacher in Australia.

<https://premium.theeducatoronline.com/k12-au-leaderprofile-bringing-digital-technology-education-to-every-school-in-australia/p/1>

Data and device poverty driving digital divide

A QUT-led project has found some families are investing in technology to ensure their children are not disadvantaged but cost-of-living pressures mean they are cutting out other essentials to do so.

<https://www.theeducatoronline.com/k12/news/data-and-device-poverty-driving-digital-divide/281350>

Student video game designers scale the challenges

Students entering the 2021 Australian STEM Video Game Challenge have been commended for persevering throughout an often challenging school year.

<https://www.acer.org/au/discover/article/student-video-game-designers-scale-the-challenges>

October 2022 : Algorithms

In our final edition of the DT Hub newsletter for 2022, we’re looking at algorithms! Did you know that algorithms can be found everywhere in our daily lives?

<https://news.digitaltechnologieshub.edu.au/pub/pubType/EO/pubID/zzzz6343cc6417838784/interface.html>

First Nations women take a step into STEM at CDU

First Nations students from across the Northern Territory are getting a taste of STEM subjects and career pathways as part of a pre-STEM program held at Charles Darwin University (CDU) this week.

<https://www.cdu.edu.au/news/first-nations-women-take-step-stem-cdu>

Have your say on new STEM syllabuses

Proposed new Science and Technology syllabuses for NSW high school students have been unveiled for public consultation, with Central Coast parents and teachers encouraged to have their say.

<https://coastcommunitynews.com.au/central-coast/news/2022/10/have-your-say-on-new-stem-syllabuses/>

What does the ‘metaverse’ mean for education?

Sometime in the past year or two, you’ve likely heard the word “metaverse.” It’s the future, the next big frontier of the internet, if you ask technology CEOs or researchers.

<https://hechingerreport.org/what-does-the-metaverse-mean-for-education/>

Key lessons driving the future of education in Asia Pacific

Zoom recently hosted its first APAC Education Summit focusing on transforming the future of education in the region. Through customer panels, keynote speakers, and a technology showcase, the event invited the APAC education community to get inspired about utilising technology to improve accessibility and equity and reshape educational models to create a more cohesive and collaborative environment for students, educators, and administrators.

<https://www.educationmattersmag.com.au/key-lessons-driving-the-future-of-education-in-asia-pacific/>

Hour of Code 2022: Explore, play, create! $1 million in awards and more is what’s in store for the 10th Hour of Code!

What if students around the world were inspired to try computer science… even if just for an hour? That’s the mission behind Hour of Code, the global campaign that has engaged more than 100 million students across more than 180 countries.

<https://codeorg.medium.com/hour-of-code-2022-explore-play-create-4d16df85e400>

Oodles of oobleck excites students about STEM in schools

Volunteers from our STEM Professionals in Schools program recently engaged students with an experience right out of a Dr Seuss book. They cooked up a non-Newtonian fluid before a live audience.

<https://blog.csiro.au/stem-schools-program/>

The school that makes technology best practice look easy

On August 12, the best of what Australia’s education system has to offer was duly celebrated at the Australian Education Awards 2022 where the nation’s top educators were recognised across 28 award categories spanning Australian School of the Year, Australian Principal of the Year, Best Professional Learning Program, and Best Student Wellbeing Program.

<https://www.theeducatoronline.com/k12/news/the-school-that-makes-technology-best-practice-look-easy/281225>

Data and device poverty driving digital divide

It’s ‘Get Online Week’ but one in four Australians are digitally excluded. A QUT-led project has found some families are investing in technology to ensure their children are not disadvantaged but cost-of-living pressures mean they are cutting out other essentials to do so.

<https://www.qut.edu.au/news?id=183720>

Expand the pipeline of STEM talent by Ed Husic, Minister for Industry and Science

As Industry and Science Minister, I often speak about the importance of science and technology for developing our industries. Central to that is an adequate supply of workers with education and skills in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

<https://www.industryupdate.com.au/article/expand-pipeline-stem-talent>

WiseTech Global contributes 1% of pre-tax profits to tech education

WiseTech Global ... has pledged 1% of its annual pre-tax profit to enable tech education initiatives that develop technology skills and passion for creatively solving real-world problems in school-age children. Partnering with Grok Academy for an initial 5 year period, the funds will enable all Australian K-12 students to enhance their Digital Technologies experience encouraging more students into IT careers and helping Australia produce its own tech workers.

<https://www.educationmattersmag.com.au/wisetech-global-contributes-1-of-pre-tax-profits-to-tech-education/>

Classroom resources: Know Your Drone

You can use our classroom resources aligned with the Australian Curriculum to support students learning about drone safety. Build their confidence and test their knowledge of the drone safety rules using the interactive board game, lesson plans, worksheets and animated videos.

<https://www.casa.gov.au/knowyourdrone/classroom-resources>

Solving Australia’s tech talent shortage

Jobs in technology are among the most productive in Australia, says the Tech Council of Australia (TCA), with productivity growing at four times the rate of the market sector in the decade to December 2021. They are also among the most well-paid, stable and flexible jobs in the economy.

<https://www.commbank.com.au/articles/business/foresight/boosting-australias-tech-talent.html>

The new Australian curriculum

The revised Australian curriculum will be available to teach in schools from 2023. What are the next steps of the implementation and what do these changes mean for teachers and education professionals at a time when staff are already struggling with heavy workloads? Education Matters finds out.

<https://www.educationmattersmag.com.au/the-new-australian-curriculum/>

Innovation for Impact and Lifelong Learning – Accelerating Baulkham Hills North Public School’s Digital Transformation

In todays’ rapidly transforming world, how can schools and educators prepare students for the jobs, challenges, and opportunities of the future?

<https://edublog.microsoft.com/en-au/2022/10/innovation-for-impact-and-lifelong-learning-accelerating-baulkham-hills-north-public-schools-digital-transformation/>

Camden Haven High School robotics teams take on Robocup National Championships [subscription]

<https://www.camdencourier.com.au/story/7940811/high-school-robotics-teams-place-in-top-four-at-robocup-national-championships/>

How to leverage technology to support teachers: Lessons from the pandemic and beyond

Teachers are crucial to improving learning and now, more than ever, they must be supported. The Successful Teachers, Successful Students report highlights the potential for using technology to support teachers and students, but emphasizes the need to use technology wisely and not as an isolated solution.

<https://blogs.worldbank.org/education/how-leverage-technology-support-teachers-lessons-pandemic-and-beyond>

Thank you teachers for inspiring us

For those who think being an educator is just about teaching, what you do in your classrooms goes beyond the curriculum. Many valuable things you do every day go unnoticed. It’s hard for you to manage not only your classrooms, but sometimes your well-being, as you face more challenges than ever before.

<https://educationblog.microsoft.com/en-us/2022/10/thank-you-teachers-for-inspiring-us>

Girls Who Code: Encouraging Girls towards STEM Careers

Girls Who Code – While enrolment in computing science and engineering degrees has largely evened out among men and women, the professional participation of women in the technology sphere continues to lag behind

<https://www.openaccessgovernment.org/article/girls-who-code-encouraging-girls-towards-stem-careers/145706/>

Researcher using maths to help Antarctica recognised in Young Tall Poppy STEM awards

A mathematician who codes models of Antarctica and the Great Barrier Reef to better understand how to protect vulnerable ecosystems is one of 12 young Queensland scientists to receive a state award.

<https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-08-31/qld-tall-poppy-award-winner-combines-maths-antarctica-stem/101390348> 

Teenagers prove you’re never too young to have a bright idea

The University of Sydney hosted the 2022 Biotech Futures Challenge, an annual competition which sees high school students from across Australia and New Zealand engineer solutions to address current problems in healthcare and the environment.

<https://www.sydney.edu.au/engineering/news-and-events/unpublished/teenagers-prove-you-re-never-too-young-to-have-a-bright-idea.html>

Surfing the edtech wave: the future is online education

Never in the history of education has online learning been so important. But there’s a big difference between teaching online, and providing quality online education, say researchers at the University of South Australia.

<https://www.theeducatoronline.com/k12/news/surfing-the-edtech-wave-the-future-is-online-education/280912>

How technology is empowering teachers, and keeping them in the classroom

A recent Grattan Institute report found teacher workloads have blown out in recent decades – an issue that has exacerbated staff shortages across Australia.

<https://www.theeducatoronline.com/k12/news/how-technology-is-empowering-teachers-and-keeping-them-in-the-classroom/280886>

TPACK leveraged: A redesigned online educational technology course for STEM preservice teachers

Abstract: Integration of computational thinking and programming into science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) classes is needed to promote students’ learning of twenty-first century skills. Yet, teachers are not equipped to achieve this integration successfully as teacher education curricula do not generally align with this need. With the Covid-19 outbreak, curricula also need to be adapted for online environments. This qualitative study presents the redesign of an educational technology course that introduces programming and computational thinking to STEM preservice teachers for online settings, and explores learning experiences of preservice teachers, in terms of how they combine technological knowledge with pedagogy and content.

<https://ajet.org.au/index.php/AJET/article/view/4773>

A flexible solution for hybrid learning

Over the past few years, getting digital devices into the hands of students has dramatically changed in line with the shift to working and learning from home.

<https://www.theeducatoronline.com/k12/news/a-flexible-solution-for-hybrid-learning/280899>

What is the future of education looking like in Asia Pacific?

The concept of traditional education has drastically changed over the last several years, and even more so during the pandemic, shedding light on what the long-term future of education may include. Being physically present in a classroom is no longer necessary to learn thanks to the growth of the internet and innovative technologies like video conferencing systems and smart whiteboards.

<https://techwireasia.com/2022/08/what-is-the-future-of-education-looking-like-in-asia-pacific/>

Google Classroom: Beyond the Traditional Setting [Problems of Education in the 21st Century][2021]

Abstract: This research explored the participants’ use of Google Classroom and evaluated its acceptability using the Technology Acceptability Model (TAM). The respondents were limited to 56 teachers enrolled in the research methodology class in a graduate school of a certain university in Bulacan during the first semester of the school year 2019-2020. The study utilized a mixed-method design. Triangulated were the result of the TAM survey, the analysis of the open-ended survey, and the record of the submission frequency of the respondents through Google Classroom.

<https://scientiasocialis.lt/pec/node/1436>

Phone bans should be a matter of principals, not governments by Daisy Turnbull

Every Sunday morning, my phone will get a screentime notification of how much (usually too much) time I’ve spent on my phone in the past week. I use my phone a lot. I am writing this on my phone. I also know when not to use my phone, when to have it on silent, and when it is using me more than I am using it. I have learned how to do this because sometimes that screen time notification is a bit too high.

<https://www.smh.com.au/education/phone-bans-should-be-a-matter-of-principals-not-governments-20220908-p5bgkt.html>

Uptick of women in STEM jobs welcomed: But still more work to be done to achieve parity with men.

... Professor Yolande Strengers from Monash University's Department of Human Centred Computing said it was important for learning institutions to build programs that encourage greater diversity among their students. “Creative programs that build technical skills whilst simultaneously demonstrating how emerging fields like AI need contributions from all disciplines and perspectives to address issues of social responsibility, equality and ethics are a great way to encourage young girls to experience STEM,” she said.

<https://ia.acs.org.au/article/2022/uptick-of-women-in-stem-jobs-welcomed.html>

The state of STEM gender equity in 2022

We’ve updated the STEM Equity Monitor for 2022. The monitor is a national data resource on women’s and girls’ participation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. It captures the state of STEM gender equity in Australia and measures changes and trends. You can use it to explore girls’ and women’s pathways of participation in STEM through school, higher education, graduation and the workforce.

<https://www.industry.gov.au/news/state-stem-gender-equity-2022>

I spy playful STEM learning at school

‘One class was a notable illustration of everything we know about quality in play-based learning.’ In this article, ACER Senior Research Fellow Rachel Parker shares the details of a playful STEM class she witnessed in the United States, where students were engaged in a crime scene investigation activity.

<https://www.teachermagazine.com/au_en/articles/i-spy-playful-stem-learning-at-school>

Students march into the future with smaller (carbon) footprints

Through STEM Professionals in Schools, a school teacher teamed up with an environmental scientist to help students identify ways to reduce their impact on the climate.

<https://blog.csiro.au/students-reduce-carbon-footprints/>

Happy campers: Young Indigenous Women’s STEM Academy

The Young Indigenous Women’s STEM Academy provides students with the tools and support to succeed in an exciting science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) career.

<https://blog.csiro.au/young-indigenous-womens-stem-academy-camp/>

Supporting the next science rock stars

Students from the Pia Wadjarri Remote Community School visited us in Perth, Western Australia, for a day of astronomy fun. We welcomed the students as part of our joint science camp with Curtin University (Curtin). Pia Wadjarri’s STEM Professionals in Schools representative and geology researcher from Curtin, Dr Luc Doucet, organised the camp.

<https://blog.csiro.au/pia-wadjarri/>

NSW government to appoint chief behaviour adviser to boost respect at schools

A chief behaviour adviser tasked with improving behaviour in NSW's public and private schools will be appointed by the state government after an "inappropriate" group chat run by students at one of Sydney's most exclusive schools was uncovered.

<https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-09-26/nsw-to-appoint-chief-behaviour-adviser-lift-respect-at-schools/101472388>

Premier’s plea to parents to set better example in social media ‘cesspit’

NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet has urged parents to set better examples for children when engaging on social media, deploring the “cesspit” of disrespectful engagement led by adults on online platforms.

<https://www.smh.com.au/politics/nsw/premier-s-plea-to-parents-to-set-better-example-in-social-media-cesspit-20220926-p5bl3a.html>

Remote learning tools can support mental health

New research examines innovative ways to support the mental health of children in low- and middle- income countries and emergency contexts.

<https://www.acer.org/au/discover/article/remote-learning-tools-can-support-mental-health>

Broadband Commission highlights role of digital technology in globe’s future: Commissioners address pandemic-driven realities and review next steps for meaningful universal connectivity

​​​​​Digital technologies should form the foundation of education and skills-building as communities continue to adapt to the realities brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the Broadband Commission for Sustainable Development, which met on Sunday at its annual fall meeting. ... Technology's role in education: During the meeting, convened ahead of the U.N.'s Transforming Education Summit at the opening of the 77th Session of the U.N. General Assembly, the Commission called for universal, inclusive and affordable connectivity for the digital transformation of education.

<https://www.itu.int/en/mediacentre/Pages/PR-2022-09-18-digital-technology-in-future.aspx>

The power of ICT for education

The Transforming Education Summit has been an opportunity for countries to make commitments to provide high-quality digital learning for all. Today’s session organized by ITU, UNESCO and UNICEF was no exception.

<https://www.itu.int/hub/2022/09/transforming-education-digital-learning-houlin-zhao/>

EdTech Research Update: What Schools Need to Know

New findings from the EdWeek Research Center will help you identify the most impactful edtech tools and how they can help students succeed.

<https://www.edweek.org/events/webinar/edtech-research-update-what-schools-need-to-know>

Virtual Reality Looks Cool, But Can It Actually Help Schools Teach Maths?

A VR company founded in 2019 to offer a learning solution for maths now serves over 20,000 students.

<https://www.edweek.org/technology/opinion-virtual-reality-looks-cool-but-can-it-actually-help-schools-teach-math/2022/09>

The Role of STEM Education in Improving the Quality of Education: A Bibliometric Study [International Journal of Technology and Design Education]

Abstract: The United Nations (UN) has launched several initiatives to promote the role of education in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and set Goal 4 for quality education among other SDGs. The integrated Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) approach is a promising educational framework for sustainable development that improves education quality. In this study, a bibliometric analysis was conducted to evaluate the scientific results of the role of integrated STEM education specifically in improving the quality of education (SDG 4). A hundred and fifty publications, with an increasing trend in the number of documents each year, out of the total number of 74,879 documents related to “education quality” and 5,430 documents related to “STEM education” were chosen from the SCOPUS database. The study analyzes the growth and development of research activities in the area of “STEM education” and “Quality education” as reflected in the publications output in the time span of 27 years from 1993 to 2020. The publication and citation trends, the most frequently used keywords, the most influential authors and journals, and the research hotspots were investigated using VoSviewer and Bibliometrix software. Accordingly, the United States happened to be the most productive country in this field owning two-thirds of the number of publications. The “Science Education” journal is ranked at the top of the highly cited journals. The findings show that topics such as “early childhood education”, “computing education”, and “environmental education” are the main hotspots in the research area of STEM and quality of education. The results of this study will help enhance the understanding of integrated STEM education in improving the quality of education and will support future works in this area.

<https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4191297>

Another school has banned mobile phones but research shows bans don’t stop bullying or improve student grades

This week, one Sydney high school made headlines for banning mobile phones during school hours. Phones can come to school but must stay in locked pouches allowing teachers to “focus on educating students”.

<https://theconversation.com/another-school-has-banned-mobile-phones-but-research-shows-bans-dont-stop-bullying-or-improve-student-grades-188435>

Why is tech giant Apple trying to teach our teachers?

Apple products are already a central part of our lives in so many ways. We use them to work, socialise, monitor our heart rates, pay for things and watch TV. But did you know they are also involved in teaching school teachers?

<https://theconversation.com/why-is-tech-giant-apple-trying-to-teach-our-teachers-186752>

Surfing the edtech wave: the future is online education

Edtech Never in the history of education has online learning been so important. But there’s a big difference between teaching online, and providing quality online education, say researchers at the University of South Australia.

<https://www.unisa.edu.au/media-centre/Releases/2022/surfing-the-edtech-wave-the-future-is-online-education/>

Recycling robo-bin among innovations to solve circular economy gap

Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, is unveiling the latest innovations in recycling this National Science Week to inspire the next generation of leaders who will lead our circular economy-focused future.

<https://www.csiro.au/en/news/News-releases/2022/Recycling-robo-bin-among-innovations-to-solve-circular-economy-gap>

CSIRO unveils circular economy innovations

Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, unveiled the latest innovations in recycling for National Science Week to inspire the next generation of leaders who will lead the country’s circular economy-focused future.

<https://www.packagingnews.com.au/sustainability/csiro-unveils-circular-economy-innovations>

What makes an award-winning STEM program

The most recent TIMSS report shows that Australia has climbed into top 10 in Year 8 maths and science, and Year 4 science – progress the government hopes to maintain through a raft of changes to the Australian Curriculum.

<https://www.theeducatoronline.com/k12/news/what-makes-an-awardwinning-stem-program/280860>

Young Academics launches STEAM workshops during Science Week

Children attending Young Academics centres will soon benefit from weekly science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics (S.T.E.A.M) workshops with dedicated educators employed to deliver the program from Term Four.

<https://thesector.com.au/2022/08/23/young-academics-launches-steam-workshops-during-science-week/>

CSIRO Robot Olympics prize money reinvested in future Aussie scientists [university]

Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, will fund a $1.2 million scholarship program at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) to train the next generation of aspiring Australian roboticists.

<https://www.csiro.au/en/news/News-releases/2022/CSIRO-Robot-Olympics-prize-money-reinvested-in-future-Aussie-scientists>

Parents and screen time: are you a ‘contract maker’ or an ‘access denier’ with your child?

Screen time was a battle for parents before COVID and it continues to be a battle, long after lockdowns have ended. The Royal Children’s Hospital March 2021 child health poll found too much screen time was parents’ number-one health concern about their kids, with more than 90% of surveyed parents saying it’s a problem.

<https://theconversation.com/parents-and-screen-time-are-you-a-contract-maker-or-an-access-denier-with-your-child-188977>

‘Screen time’ for kids is an outdated concept, so let’s ditch it and focus on quality instead

It is school holidays in Australia and, in many parts of the country, it’s also raining and bitterly cold. This means many children are stuck indoors and many parents will be grappling with how much “screen time” their kids are having.

<https://theconversation.com/screen-time-for-kids-is-an-outdated-concept-so-lets-ditch-it-and-focus-on-quality-instead-186462>

Reimagining assessment to promote learning

At Research Conference 2022, ACER CEO Professor Geoff Masters AO presented an alternative to traditional assessment models, highlighting ways to monitor learning and broaden student skills and attributes. This model will help establish and understand where learners are in their long-term learning progress; evaluate growth over time; and provide teachers, students, parents, school leaders, system managers and governments with quality information to promote further learning.

<https://www.acer.org/au/discover/article/reimagining-assessment-to-promote-learning>

Q&A: Meeting learner needs by reimagining classroom assessment and feedback

ACER’s Research Conference 2022 has kicked off today, and this afternoon delegates who attended Dr Fabienne van der Kleij’s presentation, ‘Reimagining classroom assessment and feedback to meet learner needs’, learned about the advantages of a student-centred approach to classroom assessment and feedback.

<https://www.teachermagazine.com/au_en/articles/q-a-meeting-learner-needs-by-reimagining-classroom-assessment-and-feedback>

Connecting, collaborating, and creating in the modern classroom

The JB Hi-Fi Education BYOD program at Eltham High School is equipping students and educators with excellent devices for teaching and learning while making the process – from purchasing to repairing – straightforward and seamless for everyone.

<https://www.educationmattersmag.com.au/connecting-collaborating-creating-for-the-modern-classroom/>

Melbourne edtech raises $3.3 million to help schools improve student performance and wellbeing

Melbourne data analytics startup Intellischool has raised $3.3 million as it looks to go global with its edutech platform.

<https://www.startupdaily.net/topic/funding/melbourne-edtech-raises-a3-3-million-to-help-schools-improve-student-performance-and-wellbeing/>

Maitland students share their tech-spertise

Maitland Grossmann High School students have been sharing their expertise in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) with East Maitland Public school students.

<https://education.nsw.gov.au/news/latest-news/maitland-students-share-their-tech-spertise>

Dungog High School students have won the Hunter Robocup Junior competition

A pair of year eight students at Dungog High School have won first place in the Hunter Robocup Junior competition.

<https://www.dungogchronicle.com.au/story/7864184/dungog-students-toy-with-technique-to-take-home-robocup-title/>

When should you talk to kids about online safety?

Parenting today involves raising kids who are surrounded by technology and smartphones. As a mother of two young kids, making sure they understand online safety is a top priority of mine. Children are spending more time than ever looking at screens, and at younger ages. Finding that balance of online and offline, setting boundaries, and having those conversations are critical for creating a healthy and safer experience online.

<https://blog.google/technology/families/when-should-you-talk-to-kids-about-online-safety/> 

New Teams features help improve your classroom’s well-being

Listening to and empathizing with students through ongoing dialogue is vital to their current and future success. And with the right tools educators can foster an environment where students feel heard and help keep a pulse on their emotional well-being.

<https://educationblog.microsoft.com/en-us/2022/08/new-teams-features-help-improve-your-classrooms-well-being>

Smith Family trials digital delivery of educational programs to reach more students in need

Like many parents, Tammy (not her real name) is happy to see the back of remote learning experienced by families during the COVID lockdowns.

<https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/7851512/trialling-digital-delivery-of-educational-programs-to-reach-more-students-in-need/>

Digital skills challenge sets kids up for tech careers

Over the last two years, the pandemic has seen technology thrust to the forefront of teaching and learning, not to mention the new Australian Curriculum, which will see a greater focus on improving young people’s digital literacy.

<https://www.theeducatoronline.com/k12/news/digital-skills-challenge-sets-kids-up-for-tech-careers/280765>

Grok school program to hone digital skills [AAP]

A digital skills challenge will be free to schools across Australia to plug a critical gap in teaching, and attract thousands of students needed as future technology professionals.

<https://michaelwest.com.au/grok-school-program-to-hone-digital-skills/>

<https://www.cessnockadvertiser.com.au/story/7854742/grok-school-program-to-hone-digital-skills/>

<https://www.portnews.com.au/story/7854742/grok-school-program-to-hone-digital-skills/>

Making sense of the digital education landscape

The consortium for school network has released its driving K-12 innovation report, Education Services Australia CEO, Andrew Smith discusses.

<https://www.educationmattersmag.com.au/making-sense-of-the-digital-education-landscape/>

ESA News 

This edition of ESA News features engaging lesson plans from the Digital Technologies Hub, upcoming professional learning sessions and a 20-year milestone with myfuture. Read about where we'll be at EduTECH and find details for our live session on AI classroom lessons.

<http://edservaus.createsend.com/t/ViewEmailArchive/r/A6F113F3745BDE8B2540EF23F30FEDED/C67FD2F38AC4859C/>

Tech revolution essential to help stop technology-facilitated abuse

As new research reveals 1 in 2 Australians have experienced technology-facilitated abuse at some point in their lifetime, the eSafety Commissioner is calling for a radical shift in technology design and use to help end online abuse.

<https://www.esafety.gov.au/newsroom/media-releases/tech-revolution-essential-help-stop-technology-facilitated-abuse>

Parents urged to watch out for signs of cyberbullying

As Term 3 gets underway, parents are urged to be alert to changes in their children’s behaviour that might suggest they are a target of cyberbullying.

<https://www.esafety.gov.au/newsroom/media-releases/parents-urged-watch-out-for-signs-cyberbullying>

AFL and eSafety commit to #PlayitFairOnline

The AFL has signed a new agreement with Australia’s eSafety Commissioner to help improve online safety for AFL players, fans and the broader community and raise awareness of the steps Australians can take to #PlayItFairOnline.

<https://www.esafety.gov.au/newsroom/media-releases/afl-and-esafety-commit-playitfaironline>

Federal Education Minister Jason Clare supports Spelling Bee competition

The new Federal Education Minister Jason Clare has thrown his weight behind a campaign to improve children’s spelling. He said the skill was critical for setting children up for their future. He said it was important to choose the right kind of book in an era where screens are the preferred choice of entertainment for kids today.

<https://www.news.com.au/national/federal-education-minister-jason-clare-supports-spelling-bee-competition/news-story/0c466fc4aa4a6de6c52fc3c3844f3ff4>

Powering the next generation of teaching and learning by ASUS

Educators, students and parents nowadays are confronting more barriers than ever to streamline education systems and enhance teaching communications.

<https://educationhq.com/news/powering-the-next-generation-of-teaching-and-learning-125716/>

Australia spends $5 billion a year on teaching assistants in schools but we don’t know what they do [not technology: DG]

This Friday, state and federal education ministers will meet for the first time since the federal election.

<https://theconversation.com/australia-spends-5-billion-a-year-on-teaching-assistants-in-schools-but-we-dont-know-what-they-do-187918>

EduTECH 2022: Moves to assess students' critical and creative thinking, resilience [subscription]

Is there a better way of assessing the vital skills and capabilities that students will need to thrive in their lives beyond school?

<https://educationhq.com/news/edutech-2022-moves-to-assess-students-critical-and-creative-thinking-resilience-126144/>

Train teachers to spot signs of radicalisation in classrooms: expert [subscription]

Teachers should receive training in semiotics to better detect signs of right-wing radicalisation in classrooms, a former FBI agent and cyber intelligence expert has said.

<https://educationhq.com/news/train-teachers-to-spot-signs-of-radicalisation-in-classrooms-expert-125832/>

Investing in a Testbed…for Schools and Institutions

There are unique benefits for education partners in a testbed trial program. These schools and institutions can be brought into the education innovation ecosystem, market themselves at the cutting edge of digital learning, and more.

<https://edugrowth.org.au/2022/07/09/gveia-investing-in-a-testbed-for-schools-institutions/>

A Sydney high school banned mobile phones. It had dramatic results

A Sydney high school has seen a dramatic decrease in behavioural issues and a boost in physical activity and students talking to each other just two months after it tightened restrictions on mobile phone usage.

<https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/a-sydney-high-school-banned-mobile-phones-it-had-dramatic-results-20220803-p5b6zf.html>

Wollongong cycling race road closures force students back to online learning

Thousands of Wollongong students face a week of online learning as roads close to cars for the UCI Road World Championships in September.

<https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-08-10/wollongong-cycling-race-road-closures-students-online-learning/101318246>

Wollongong schools forced into remote learning during UCI bike race

Seven Wollongong public schools will be forced into remote learning for the last week of this term due to road closures for the UCI bike race.

<https://www.illawarramercury.com.au/story/7853852/wollongong-schools-forced-into-remote-learning-during-uci-bike-race/>

Google's 'Read Along' Learning Tool Now Available on the Web

Google is rolling out its Read Along learning tool for the web. The app, which is supposed to help children learn how to read, has been exclusive to Android since it was released in India in 2019. (It was called Bolo at the time; Google changed the name for its global launch in 2020.) Now it'll finally be available to kids without Android devices.

<https://au.pcmag.com/education-1/95548/googles-read-along-learning-tool-now-available-on-the-web>

Help kids learn to read with Read Along, now available on the web

Over the past three years, more than 30 million kids have read more than 120 million stories on Read Along. The app, which was first released as Bolo in India in 2019 and released globally as Read Along the following year, helps kids learn to read independently with the help of a reading assistant, Diya.

<https://www.blog.google/outreach-initiatives/education/read-along-web/>

What we are learning | What we are reading: Recommended reading for people who demand evidence in EdTech (1 of 6)

This is Part 1 of a six-part blog series inspired by discussions with partners working in the EdTech space who recognize they do not have the information they need to make informed decisions and recommendations. With that in mind, we put together a series summarising what we have learned so far in each of our focus areas: Data for Decisions, Digital Personalised Learning (DPL), Girls’ Education & Technology, Participation & Messaging, and Teacher Continuous Professional Development. In each blog, we provide some key lessons, an outline of our ongoing work, and additional resources (written by us and by our partners) for readers who want to delve deeper. This first blog focuses on the general EdTech Hub space.

<https://edtechhub.org/2022/07/29/what-we-are-learning-what-we-are-reading-recommended-reading-for-people-who-demand-evidence-in-edtech-1-of-6/>

What we are learning | What we are reading: Data for Decisions – Can technology be used to improve data collection, analysis, and planning to improve learning outcomes?

This is Part 2 of a six-part blog series inspired by discussions with partners working in the EdTech space who recognize they do not have the information they need to make informed decisions and recommendations. So, we put together a series summarising what we have learned so far in each of our focus areas: Data for Decisions, Digital Personalised Learning (DPL), Girls’ Education & Technology, Participation & Messaging, and Teacher Continuous Professional Development. We provide some key lessons, an outline of our ongoing work, and some additional resources (written by us and by our partners) for readers who want to delve deeper. This blog focuses on Data for Decisions.

<https://edtechhub.org/2022/08/09/what-we-are-learning-what-we-are-reading-data-for-decisions-can-technology-be-used-to-improve-data-collection-analysis-and-planning-to-improve-learning-outcomes/>

Top Aussie kids picked to compete at world science and maths games

Thirty-one of Australia’s brightest high school scientists and mathematicians have won selection to represent Australia at the UNESCO-sanctioned International Science, Informatics and Mathematical Olympiads – the world’s toughest maths and science competitions for teenagers. They will compete against more than 2,000 of the world’s brightest students.

<https://www.asi.edu.au/media_releases/top-aussie-kids-picked-to-compete-at-world-science-and-maths-games/> 

Bridging the digital divide in Australia's schools

The advent of COVID-19 has forever changed modes of learning delivery with education and training providers now requiring students to have access to online learning environments.

<https://www.theeducatoronline.com/k12/news/bridging-the-digital-divide-in-australias-schools/280727>

Why is tech giant Apple trying to teach our teachers?

Apple products are already a central part of our lives in so many ways. We use them to work, socialise, monitor our heart rates, pay for things and watch TV. But did you know they are also involved in teaching school teachers?

<https://theconversation.com/why-is-tech-giant-apple-trying-to-teach-our-teachers-186752>

Bridging the digital divide in Australia's schools

The advent of COVID-19 has forever changed modes of learning delivery with education and training providers now requiring students to have access to online learning environments.

<https://www.theeducatoronline.com/k12/news/bridging-the-digital-divide-in-australias-schools/280727> 

Prolonged screen time leaving a generation of short-sighted kids at risk

Children are at increased risk of developing myopia due to increased screen time during the pandemic and delayed vision checks, optometrists say.

<https://educationhq.com/news/prolonged-screen-time-leaving-a-generation-of-short-sighted-kids-at-risk-125022/>

Challenging students beyond the curriculum in Mathematics, Reading and Science

ACER’s Global Academic Challenge was held for the first time this year and offers higher-performing students in Years 4, 6 and 8 the opportunity to attempt the kinds of questions sat by students in international schools around the world. ACER Senior Research Fellow Frances Eveleigh, who led the development of the challenge, shares some of the insights in this article.

<https://www.teachermagazine.com/au_en/articles/challenging-students-beyond-the-curriculum-in-mathematics-reading-and-science>

Growing skills and STEM careers this National Science Week

The Australian Government is celebrating the work of our scientists this National Science Week, working to close the gender gap and inspire the next generation to be part of the highly skilled STEM sector.

<https://www.minister.industry.gov.au/ministers/husic/media-releases/growing-skills-and-stem-careers-national-science-week> 

New scholarships to support women in STEM careers

A program to support women in STEM careers has opened, with up to 500 undergraduate and postgraduate scholarships available across the science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields over the next six years.

<https://ia.acs.org.au/article/2022/new-scholarships-to-support-women-in-stem-careers.html>

Embracing Indigenous Knowledges in STEM the focus of NAIDOC Week webinar

The Australian Academy of Science celebrated NAIDOC Week recently by hosting a virtual webinar on 7 July. In a Q&A format, four Indigenous STEM professionals shared their journeys in STEM and discussed their experience embracing Indigenous Knowledges in STEM and the ways in which they foster a more inclusive and diverse STEM sector.

<https://www.science.org.au/news-and-events/news-and-media-releases/embracing-indigenous-knowledges-stem-focus-naidoc-week>

STEM Sisters that empowers women of colour wins 2022 TechDiversity Business Award

Non-profit organisation STEM Sisters has won the Business Award at TechDiversity Awards 2022.

<https://www.theaustraliatoday.com.au/stem-sisters-that-empowers-women-of-colour-wins-2022-techdiversity-business-award/>

No wonder no one wants to be a teacher: world-first study looks at 65,000 news articles about Australian teachers [not technology, but maybe of interest: DG]

Remember when former Morrison government minister Stuart Robert lashed out at “dud” teachers? In March, the then acting education minister said the “bottom 10%” of teachers “can’t read and write” and blamed them for declining academic results.

<https://theconversation.com/no-wonder-no-one-wants-to-be-a-teacher-world-first-study-looks-at-65-000-news-articles-about-australian-teachers-186210>

Why biomimicry is the perfect lens for STEM learning [subscription]

Could nature hold clues to solving complex problems and tick the box for engaging students in STEM?

<https://educationhq.com/news/why-biomimicry-is-the-perfect-lens-for-stem-learning-125173/>

Could more online learning help fix Australia’s teacher shortage?

... One option that could free up teacher time, and ensure students are getting the education they need, is “blended” learning, in which some learning is done online and some face-to-face. We know this can work in other settings – at the university level, I have three decades of expertise in remote and blended learning, with many thousands of students across several subjects at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

<https://theconversation.com/could-more-online-learning-help-fix-australias-teacher-shortage-185877>

Exploring thinking about i-STEM education at the Victorian Academy of Teaching and Leadership

#theSTEMproblem project is funded by an Australian Research Council (ARC) Linkage grant, and involves researchers from Monash University and the University of Queensland partnering with staff and teachers from Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS) and Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) schools to explore the connection and possibilities of Problem Based Learning (PBL) in STEM education.

<https://www.monash.edu/education/research/projects/exploring-problem-based-learning-in-schools/updates/exploring-thinking-about-i-stem-education-at-the-victorian-academy-of-teaching-and-leadership>

Inspiring the next generation of female scientists and engineers

The world has changed a lot over the last few years. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the essential role that science plays to respond to some of our biggest challenges says Misha Schubert, CEO of Science & Technology Australia – the nations peak body for science and technology representing more than 90,000 members.

<https://www.educationmattersmag.com.au/inspiring-the-next-generation-of-female-scientists-and-engineers/>

International Conference on Change and Complexity in Learning

At the University of South Australia’s first International Conference on Change and Complexity in Learning, educators will learn how educational technologies (EdTech) can maximise outcomes for both students and teachers, paving the way for improved understanding and application of EdTech in class.

<https://www.educationmattersmag.com.au/embrace-technology-and-boost-education-outcomes/>

The new normal in classrooms as the 2022 academic year unfolds

January 2022 marked the time the time the National Cabinet agreed to a national framework to promote a statewide consistent approach to the ongoing delivery of high-quality education with a commitment to keeping schools open as the pandemic continued into its third year. Education Matters takes a look at what the new normal might look like across classrooms as the academic year unfolds.

<https://www.educationmattersmag.com.au/the-new-normal/>

Reinventing Learning in a Globally Connected World: Strategies for Success: Jul 21

Education is at a pivotal moment. Explore essential strategies for reinventing learning with dynamic district and organization thought leaders as they share ideas for implementing various learning formats, redefining teacher roles, revamping grading practices, and more.

<https://www.edweek.org/events/webinar/reinventing-learning-in-a-globally-connected-world-strategies-for-success>

Game on for collaborative learning

Holding a conversation, working in a group, giving constructive feedback and dealing with conflict are vital interpersonal skills that contribute to an empowered and connected life.

<https://educationhq.com/news/game-on-for-collaborative-learning-123332/>

Researching the potential of teaching digital writing in secondary school

With the rapid growth in digital technologies, digital writing skills are becoming more and more relevant for students. A new research project from Deakin University will look at the potential to complement traditional writing tasks in schools with contemporary forms of digital writing.

<https://www.teachermagazine.com/au_en/articles/researching-the-potential-of-teaching-digital-writing-in-secondary-school>

Schools prime targets for ransomware attacks – study

Schools are among the prime targets for ransomware attackers due to their lack of strong cybersecurity defences and the goldmine of personal data they hold, a new global survey has found.

<https://www.theeducatoronline.com/k12/news/schools-prime-targets-for-ransomware-attacks--study/280594>

Microsoft School Transformation Program 2022 – Semester 2 registrations open now

Registrations are now open for the 2022 Microsoft School Transformation Program.

<https://edublog.microsoft.com/en-au/2022/06/microsoft-school-transformation-program-2022-semester-2-registrations-open-now/>

Education recovery after COVID-19: Better, stronger & collaborative

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, so do the risks we face. The Covid-19 pandemic has not stopped at national borders, and it has affected people regardless of nationality, gender or level of education or income. But that has not been true for its consequences, which have hit the most vulnerable hardest, whether that is individuals or countries. And, together with high inflation, disrupted supply chains, and military conflicts, the pandemic is dangerously diminishing governments’, families’ and donors’ capacity to support education.

<https://oecdedutoday.com/education-recovery-after-covid/>

Primary-age children’s screen time went up by 83 minutes a day during pandemic – study

Screen time during the Covid pandemic increased the most among primary schoolchildren, by an extra hour and 20 minutes a day on average, according to the first global review of research.

<https://www.theguardian.com/society/2022/jun/24/primary-age-children-screen-time-went-up-83-minutes-day-pandemic>

For Blind Internet Users, the Fix Can Be Worse Than the Flaws [not education, but could be relevant]

Patrick Perdue, a radio enthusiast who is blind, regularly shopped for equipment through the website of Ham Radio Outlet. The website’s code allowed him to easily move through the sections of each page with his keyboard, his screen reader speaking the text.

<https://www.nytimes.com/2022/07/13/technology/ai-web-accessibility.html>

Lessons from Remote Learning, Part 1: Ed Tech’s Successes

In the first of a two-part series, career school technologist Kipp Bentley examines some important ways that ed tech helped schools navigate the move to remote learning. Part two will focus on new and ongoing challenges.

<https://www.govtech.com/education/k-12/lessons-from-remote-learning-part-1-ed-techs-successes>

Lessons from Remote Learning, Part 2: Post-Pandemic Challenges

In the second of a two-part series, career school technologist Kipp Bentley considers challenges that lie ahead for ed tech, including the need to manage screen time, make change equitable and teach media literacy.

<https://www.govtech.com/education/k-12/lessons-from-remote-learning-part-2-post-pandemic-challenges>

How Parents Can Get Kids Exercising Again After 2 Years of Remote Learning

It took a great deal of collective effort to shut down everyday life for children when COVID-19 first struck in early 2020. And now, more than two years later, it may take just as much effort to return children to pre-pandemic levels of physical activity.

<https://www.healthline.com/health-news/how-parents-can-get-kids-exercising-again-after-2-years-of-remote-learning>

Big Tech bosses call for computer science to be taught in all US schools

The CEOs of Google, Amazon, Apple, Meta, Microsoft, and more signed a letter urging for governors and education leaders to introduce computer science lessons to all K-12 students – those aged five to 18, typically – across the country. Children should be given the opportunity to learn how to code as early as elementary school and all the way through to high school, according to Code.org's CEO Hadi Partovi, who is leading the effort.

<https://www.theregister.com/2022/07/13/big_tech_leaders_sign_letter/>

A who’s who of CEOs is begging every school to teach computer science

More than 500 notable people in business, education, and the nonprofit sector are calling for governors and education leaders to update K-12 curriculums to allow “every student in every school to have the opportunity to learn computer science,” according to a new letter posted publicly at ceosforcs.com. The list of signatories includes many prominent figures in technology, including Apple CEO Tim Cook, Amazon founder and executive chair Jeff Bezos, Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai, Microsoft cofounder Bill Gates, and Meta founder, chairman, and CEO Mark Zuckerberg.

<https://www.theverge.com/2022/7/12/23205907/tech-leaders-ceos-for-cs-apple-amazon-meta-microsoft>

Embracing Indigenous knowledges in STEM the focus of NAIDOC Week webinar

The Australian Academy of Science celebrated NAIDOC Week recently by hosting a virtual webinar on 7 July. In a Q&A format, four Indigenous STEM professionals shared their journeys in STEM and discussed their experience embracing Indigenous knowledges in STEM and the ways in which they foster a more inclusive and diverse STEM sector.

<https://www.science.org.au/news-and-events/news-and-media-releases/embracing-indigenous-knowledges-stem-focus-naidoc-week>

STEM Hub for girls receives funding boost

An innovative online hub that encourages girls to participate in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) opportunities has received $1.2m in funding from The Invergowrie Foundation.

<https://www.theeducatoronline.com/k12/news/stem-hub-for-girls-receives-funding-boost/280640>

Inspiring the next generation of female scientists and engineers

The world has changed a lot over the last few years. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the essential role that science plays to respond to some of our biggest challenges says Misha Schubert, CEO of Science & Technology Australia – the nations peak body for science and technology representing more than 90,000 members.

<https://www.educationmattersmag.com.au/inspiring-the-next-generation-of-female-scientists-and-engineers/>

Bush kinders supporting early years STEM learning

‘When you’re in a bush kinder, there are no gendered materials. Everything that’s there is for anybody to play with.’ Recent findings from a Deakin University study reveal that bush kinders can build children’s early confidence and skill development in STEM, especially for young girls.

<https://www.teachermagazine.com/au_en/articles/bush-kinders-supporting-early-years-stem-learning>

Effective use of virtual reality to improve student outcomes in Science

New research has shown that while the use of immersive virtual reality (IVR) increases student enjoyment and presence in a task, when used on its own it does not improve procedural or declarative knowledge when compared to the more traditional learning activity of watching a video.

<https://www.teachermagazine.com/au_en/articles/effective-use-of-virtual-reality-to-improve-student-outcomes-in-science>

Girls’ schools buck decline in maths participation

Girls’ participation in maths – and indeed all STEM subjects – has long been a topic of global concern. In particular, schools, educators and parents have sought out strategies to keep girls engaged and participating in advanced maths and science in secondary school.

<https://www.smh.com.au/education/girls-schools-buck-decline-in-maths-participation-20220714-p5b1ll.html>

Problem gaming leading to aggression, school refusal and self-harm

Tens of thousands of Australian teenagers are gaming at pathological levels, which in extreme cases is leading to prolonged school refusal, threats of self-harm and aggression towards family members.

<https://www.theage.com.au/technology/video-games/problem-gaming-leading-to-aggression-school-refusal-and-self-harm-20220714-p5b1l2.html>

The new normal in classrooms as the 2022 academic year unfolds

January 2022 marked the time the time the National Cabinet agreed to a national framework to promote a statewide consistent approach to the ongoing delivery of high-quality education with a commitment to keeping schools open as the pandemic continued into its third year. Education Matters takes a look at what the new normal might look like across classrooms as the academic year unfolds. ... “My son who is now in Year 2 hasn’t really had school for two years. He hasn’t really experienced what school life is like. There is a curriculum, and we can deliver that but all the other amazing experiences of being involved with each other, with other year levels, is the one thing we really craved at the end of remote learning,” Korber says. Research published in January by The Murdoch Children’s Research Institute shows that child and adolescent mental health difficulties, and physical health problems have increased across the 2020-2021 lockdown period in Victoria and that the potential impacts on health and development are likely to be long lasting.

<https://www.educationmattersmag.com.au/the-new-normal/>

The influence of ed-tech in Australia’s schools, before and after the Covid-19 pandemic

Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic and its lockdowns, schools everywhere have been forced to think outside the box with regards to how they use technology for the continuity of teaching and learning.

<https://www.theeducatoronline.com/k12/news/the-influence-of-edtech-in-australias-schools-before-and-after-the-covid19-pandemic/280634>

7 ways to reduce the learning loss caused by the pandemic

School closures and the shift to online learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic have resulted in learning loss in developed and developing countries. Learning loss is generally defined as any specific or general loss of knowledge and skills or reversals in academic progress when students are not in school.

<https://theconversation.com/7-ways-to-reduce-the-learning-loss-caused-by-the-pandemic-180591>

Bridging education’s digital divide

The COVID-19 pandemic presented a learning moment for the global education system like no other. Now, as we return to something akin to a pre-pandemic world, we need to ask what lessons have we really learned?

<https://www.themandarin.com.au/193209-bridging-educations-digital-divide/>

Why we must take the pulse of education research in Australia now

Australian education research is at a key turning point in a pandemic world where the dramatic effects of climate change demand our urgent attention. This blog piece explores the current challenges facing Australian Education research and the contemporary opportunities to create a future radical agenda for inclusive and compassionate education research. This piece has been adapted from the Community of Associate Deans of Education Research (cADRE) address* that I presented on 29 June at the recent AARE/cADRE Education Research Leaders’ Summit hosted by Professor Anna Sullivan on Kaurna Land at the University of South Australia.

<https://www.aare.edu.au/blog/?p=13652>

Internet now lightning fast for regional schools

Thousands of students are now benefitting from faster, more reliable internet thanks to a $328 million investment by the NSW Government to connect every public school in regional NSW to fibre internet.

<https://education.nsw.gov.au/news/latest-news/internet-now-lightning-fast-for-regional-schools>

Remote public schools get internet upgrade [subscription]

Remote public schools struggling with slow satellite internet have had an upgrade under the final round of a state government scheme.

<https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/remote-public-schools-with-slow-satellite-net-have-had-an-upgrade-under-state-government-scheme/news-story/0011bbd86a712db949926234506a7eed>

Women in science: 15-year-old's quest to change the world

Cadence Taylor may only be 15 years old — but the young Queenslander already has her mind set on changing the world with science. Tackling climate change and its impact on the Great Barrier Reef is a driving passion for the Bundaberg high school student, as is making sure the under-representation of women's voices in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) is addressed.

<https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-07-17/women-in-science-mentoring-program/101236984>

Aboriginal teen uses drone technology to preserve heritage [tertiary, but maybe of interest: DG]

An Aboriginal teenager from Far North Queensland is using the power of drone technology to preserve the history of the Wallara clan of the Koko-Muluridji people.

<https://www.theeducatoronline.com/k12/news/aboriginal-teen-uses-drone-technology-to-preserve-heritage/280618>

Large Melbourne school cancels classes, warns remote learning may be needed

A teacher shortage, exacerbated by illness and a flood of resignations, has forced the principal of one of Melbourne’s biggest schools to cancel or merge senior students’ classes and consider a return to remote learning.

>https://www.smh.com.au/national/victoria/large-melbourne-school-cancels-classes-warns-remote-learning-may-be-needed-20220714-p5b1q9.html>

Mobile phones can enable learning during school disruptions. Here’s how

The COVID-19 pandemic placed enormous pressure on education systems worldwide. At the peak of the crisis, school closures forced over 1.6 billion learners out of classrooms. This exacerbated a learning crisis that existed before the pandemic, with many children in school but learning very little.

<https://theconversation.com/mobile-phones-can-enable-learning-during-school-disruptions-heres-how-186006>

Accelerating learning for students with limited internet access

Millions of students have limited access to the internet at home, leaving them struggling to access interactive online lessons and forcing them to find offline workarounds on devices lacking storage for video and other resources.

<https://educationblog.microsoft.com/en-us/2022/07/accelerating-learning-for-students-with-limited-internet-access>

ISTE 2022: Partners empowering our communities and educators

With the world changing faster than ever, the connections between students, educators, and other learning communities that support them have never been more essential.

<https://educationblog.microsoft.com/en-us/2022/06/iste-2022-partners-empowering-our-communities-and-educators>

Explore Teams updates to enhance teaching strategies

Every day, we work to adapt our tools so that each student has the support and resources needed to thrive in the classroom and beyond it, too. One big part of this is Microsoft Teams, the education platform where we’re always innovating to support students and teachers alike.

<https://educationblog.microsoft.com/en-us/2022/07/explore-teams-updates-to-enhance-teaching-strategies>

Grow Professionally with the Microsoft Learn Educator Center

Investing in teachers’ growth to help them be more effective is key to improving student learning. The reason: teacher quality has more impact on students than any school education program or policy does, and in fact, teacher effectiveness is the largest factor influencing student outcomes, outside of family background.

<https://educationblog.microsoft.com/en-us/2022/06/grow-professionally-with-the-microsoft-learn-educator-center>