Networked schools – Using New Technologies to Connect & Collaborate

20 August 2009

At this event Gary Schultz discussed his current work in the Horsham Regional Office on the Wimmera Virtual School project. This pilot project encompasses eleven secondary colleges around the Wimmera area in the North West of Victoria. He looked at how the project is attempting to address disadvantage in rural and remote schools by developing a blended learning model of provision. Currently there are eight VCE subjects being provided that include the use of video conferencing, online content, digital recorded content and also face-to-face teaching.

Adrian Camm shared his experience in creating a VCE Physics Unit 3&4 Virtual Learning Community that links students across Victoria to experienced educators and textbook authors. He focused on how the initiative created opportunities for students to interact with each other, educators and knowledgeable adults in authentic learning experiences.

About the presenters

Adrian Camm is the Head of Mathematics at McGuire College and has responsibility for senior Mathematics and Physics. He is now taking a leadership role in promoting effective use of emerging technologies across all faculty areas. Adrian is also a member of the Powerful Learning Practice International Cohort where he engages with international educators on 21st century learning.

Gary Schultz has been a teacher for 25 years. With a career path through Physical Education, Science, Information Technology and Work Education, to developing Dimboola Memorial Secondary College teachers integration of ICT into classroom practice. Gary was awarded the 2008 Most Outstanding Secondary Teacher of the year for his work in changing the ICT culture of the college.

Recording of the online session