2012 Teachers' Visit Day
Schedule
| 8.30am | Registration | Hunter Griffith Duncan Theatre Foyer |
| 9.00am | Welcome and overview | Hunter Griffith Duncan Theatre |
| 9.30am – 11.00am | Session 1 | Various |
| 11.00am – 11.30am | Morning tea | Hunter Building Concourse |
| 11.30am – 1.00pm | Session 2 | Various |
| 1.00pm – 1.45pm | Lunch | Hunter Building Concourse |
| 1.45pm – 3.15pm | Session 3 | Various |
| 3.15pm – 4.30pm | Closing remarks and refreshments | University Gallery |
Program
This is the program of sessions for our 2012 event. Please click on an individual session to find out more about the presentation.
Session 1
9:30am - 11:00am
Register Now > 1 x 80 minute session
Engaging families and the local community Read more > < Read less
Topics: Other
Research shows that strong partnerships between schools, parents, businesses and the local community organisations can make a significant difference to educational and social outcomes for students. Community engagement is a two way process that involves more active participation than simply inviting parents to the school. Drawing on the work of the Family Action Centre and the experience of participants, this interactive workshop will explore practical strategies for engaging families and the local community in your school. We will investigate some of the challenges and potential benefits of active community engagement, ways of identifying and mobilising family and community resources, as well as examples of successful community partnerships and potential funding sources.
Exploring pedagogy for early childhood practice Read more > < Read less
Topics: Education
The way in which pedagogy is defined in the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) encompasses a large part of the educational and caring work of early childhood educators and therefore it requires special attention. However, when we attempt to talk about how we do ‘pedagogy’ in our everyday work, we end up in a momentary pause. During this session participants will engage in theoretical and practical explorations of what pedagogy means for early childhood educators’ work, especially in relation to the EYLF.
How to develop Innovative Teaching & Learning (ITL) Activities Read more > < Read less
Topics: English, Geography, History, HSIE, ICT, Librarians, Science
This workshop will develop a deeper understanding of Innovative Teaching and Learning (ITL) practices, which can provide students with transformative educational opportunities in schools through the integration of technology across a range of disciplines. In this session the presenters will take a hands-on approach to investigating ITL through introducing the different dimensions of 21st century skills involved in developing effective learning activities for students both in school and for homework projects. The session will also provide an opportunity for teachers to analyse Learning Activities using these dimensions. There will be an emphasis on the middle years of schooling, in the disciplines of Humanities and the Sciences.
I'm not Autistic! Read more > < Read less
Topics: Drama, ICT, Music, Special Education, Visual Arts
Looking at diverse learners in the classroom who have suspected Autism or diagnosed as such but seem to not match the symptoms fully, this session looks at meeting those students needs Applicable to Early Childhood and Primary teachers, teaching with technology and teachers interested in using creative arts as a methodology. Practical activities, funding issues, using Arts learning to support and also applying iPad/tablet usage in the classroom. Session matches with NSW and Australian Curriculum requirements.
Rock and Water Program Read more > < Read less
Topics: Aboriginal, Counsellors, PDHPE, Special Education
Rock and Water is a program that has been taught to over 15,000 educators, youth workers and health professionals in Australia. The program is so popular because it engages boys and girls particularly well through physical activities, whilst challenging their beliefs about violence. Many young people, when faced with anxiety, fear or doubt, default to anger and aggression. The physicality of young children and adolescents and the practical nature of the program are weaved together to uncover `diamonds of wisdom' inside each of the participants. In Rock and Water the participants learns to find alternatives to anger or withdrawal, by developing self-confidence, improving self esteem and learning to reflect on their experiences. The program uses physical exercises, self defence components and romping exercises to promote communication, self- reflection and mental integrity. Rock and Water is taught in both primary and secondary schools, youth and support service organisations. This workshop will provide an overview of the Rock and Water Program including the latest developments in the specific focus areas: Primary School, Focus on Girls/Women and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Teachers will participate in some of the Rock and Water exercises, such as standing strong, understanding boundaries, negotiation skills using Rock and Water principles and avoiding conflict with dignity. The language of Rock and Water will be explored, and the ways in which a whole school/organisational approach can be adopted, with several case studies for consideration.
"Simply Surreal and Absolutely Abstracted" - Confidence Building exercises (for both teacher and student) in K - 6 Visual Arts Read more > < Read less
Topics: Special Education
- Multi-part session: Session 1 (room CE11) (this session) and Session 2 Group A (room CE11)
Visual Art in Creative Arts K-6 is one of six learning area syllabuses for Primary Curriculum. The Education Act (1990) sets out a minimum requirement for this syllabus as in the other five areas. Although the syllabus is designed to be used by the classroom, not all teachers feel confident about its implementation. Some students also feel apprehensive about their own ability which can have a negative impact on their performance. The practical demonstrations in this session provides the teacher with a number of tasks that when used in the classroom have the dual advantage of creating confidence in both the teacher and student. The tasks also explore new ways of using materials and techniques (Visual Arts Syllabus)and can be adapted to suit any stage. Hopefully this session will also be the starting point of a greater interest in developing tasks to stimulate students, and make their learning experiences rewarding and meaningful.
Session 1 Group ARegister Now > 1 x 40 minute session
A non-traditional approach to teaching Read more > < Read less
Topics: Business Studies, Careers, Counsellors, Economics
Traditionally we teach 'to' books. For example in a traditional accounting class it is mere rules, standards, formats without much scope for students to 'relate' to concepts and think for themselves, sharpen their judgement and be interested to explore further. I would share my non-traditional approach that engages students in an interactive manner. My presentation would be of use to any teacher but more specifically to teachers in business studies in the NSW Board of Studies syllabus.
Incorporating Global Education in Teacher Education Read more > < Read less
Topics: Education
In an era of international multimedia exposure and global economy, there is no question that global education (GE) must be part of the school curriculum. Effective delivery of GE is reliant on adequate teacher preparation. A group of teacher educators at the University of Newcastle are seeking to raise the profile of GE with pre-service early childhood, primary and secondary teachers through the integration of global perspectives in various courses. They are also conducting research into student attitudes towards and learning about GE. In this presentation they will discuss pre-service teacher perceptions of the importance of GE, the students' learning as a result of this emphasis, and what students would like to learn more about in GE. Students' preferred learning directions are not always what we might expect or hope, but with exposure over a number of semesters, student understandings develop, creating better prepared teachers of GE. The researchers will also discuss their own reflections of implementing global education as a new facet in their teaching. Conflicting perspectives in global education and the challenges posed by implementing such a focus in a teacher education program are identified. Relevant resources will also be presented.
Supporting pre-service and beginning teacher learning: The importance of the staffroom Read more > < Read less
Topics: Education
Supporting pre-service and beginning teachers in their professional development, learning and transition is an important responsibility of all schools. The staffroom context, which occupies the majority of teachers non-teaching time at school, presents as an under researched and unconsidered site within schools, where learning is often unintentional and unplanned. Drawing on stories from the field, this interactive session will explore pre-service and beginning teacher experiences, development and learning in the staffroom context. Participants will be invited to share their experiences of staffrooms, and engage in conversation around how best to support pre-service and beginning teacher learning in this context. This session will be of interest not only to those school administrators and teachers who provide supervision and mentoring support for pre-service and beginning teachers, but also to those teachers who occupy and share staffrooms where pre-service and beginning teachers visit and transition.
What is Industrial Design? Read more > < Read less
Topics: Business Studies, Design & Technology, Economics, Engineering, Visual Arts
To inform the teachers about Industrial Design and it's opportunities to students. It will also highlight it's importance to business objectives.
Session 1 Group BRegister Now > 1 x 40 minute session
Early Literacy Engagement For Families and Children: A Funds of Knowledge Approach Read more > < Read less
Topics: Education
In this session, Linda Newman will share some findings from a project in which she is currently engaged that is situated in Northern Chile. Working with educators, families and children in extremely poor communities, the project team have successfully taken part in the co-construction of a learning community with a focus on early literacy and pedagogical and community leadership. The impact of the pilot project has indicated significantly increased child attendance, family engagement and literacy and numeracy outcomes. The success of the project has led to it's scaling up in a wider region. The pedagogical and learning documentation approaches adopted by the teachers will be discussed. The concept of "funds of knowledge" has proven particularly powerful as a facilitator of literacy engagement. Examples of this concept in action will be shared. This session will be of interest to early childhood teachers working in centres or schools, particularly those with "hard to reach" families. Approaches used in this project are particularly useful to teachers working with the Early Years Learning Framework.
Indigenous Education - What works! Read more > < Read less
Topics: Aboriginal
Current strategic directions and proven programs that work will be discussed with two leading Indigenous educators exploring the area of Indigenous engagement. Evidence from recent research will explore the foundations of why Aboriginal kids switch off school and what do we need to do to switch them back onto schooling.
Invisible Masks: Linguistic Identities in Multicultural Classrooms Read more > < Read less
Topics: Other
In Australian schools, the importance of understanding linguistic and cultural diversity has drawn increasing attention from teachers who are facing challenges of quality teaching and learning in multicultural classrooms. This section will present new development and some research findings in the field of intercultural communication thus reveal the inseparable connections between language and culture. In particular, students' linguistic identities depending on their cultural values will be explored in depth. The participants from various disciplines will be given an opportunity to share their views on what roles of teachers should play in order to promote positive interaction and communication in multicultural classrooms.
Physical Fitness for Children (practical session) Read more > < Read less
Topics: Education, PDHPE
Recent studies indicate that high levels of physical fitness among children have been linked to a decreased risk of developing chronic illnesses, better mental health, and improved academic performance. This session will provide teachers with simple and enjoyable teaching strategies that can be used with primary school children to develop health-related physical fitness. Fitness education is an important component of the Active Lifestyle content strand in the NSW K-6 PDHPE syllabus and contributes to the development of valuable knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary for the maintenance and adoption of an active lifestyle. Participants will be provided with information regarding fitness education in primary schools and will participate in a variety of physical activities and challenges specifically targeting health-related fitness. This is predominantly a practical sessions so participants are asked to wear suitable attire (sports shoes / clothing).
The role of Visual Literacies 3-8 years of age Read more > < Read less
Topics: Education
Children and teachers are increasingly bombarded with texts that privilege visual communication such as; advertisements, technologically mediated information, exploring the internet for information as well as entertainment. With this proliferation of highly complex communication using visual images and designs young children's viewing and consuming of these texts has and will continue to evolve. Therefore, teaching practices require educators to continuously explore and update their understanding of these multi-modal texts. Further, educators questioning and critiquing the concept of 'what does it means to be literate in the 21st century and what are societal expectations?'.
Session 2
11:30am- 1:00pm
Register Now > 1 x 80 minute session
Boy's education: theories and practice Read more > < Read less
Topics: Aboriginal, Counsellors
How we might best reach and teach boys who are disengaging from schools has been a vexed question for the past 15 years (if not for the entire history of formal education). Teachers from all sectors: preschool, primary, middle and secondary will benefit from this informative and interactive session where participants will explore: - the discourses that inform our work with boys (including reflecting on their own views) - the identity, relationship and learning issues involved in boys' education (including strategies that have clearly worked for boys in some situations) - a critical appraisal of participant's own current school and community situation that will enable or inhibit them to more effectively reach and teach the real live boys that they are concerned about.
Found Poetry Read more > < Read less
Topics: English
Found Poetry is a form of analysis and creative writing that enables students to discover the power of words in everyday texts. Found poems take existing texts and refashion them. Omissions and decisions of form, such as where to break a line, are left to the student. The literary equivalent of a collage, found poetry is often made from newspaper articles, street signs, graffiti, speeches, letters, or even other poems. The advantage of found poems is that "you don't start from scratch. All you have to do is find some good language and ‘improve' it". Participants will be given an overview of the concept and practice the theory using a range of texts. The session will include how to integrate ICT into the classroom using Found Poetry. After the session participants will be able to utilise their knowledge in their very next lesson. Please note that this is an expansion of the popular session from 2011. As such it will include some of the work covered last year.
Intentional teaching - EYLF Read more > < Read less
Topics: Education
• Intentional teaching does not happen by chance; it is planful, thoughtful, and purposeful, Epstein, 2007. This workshop will discuss what it means to be an intentional teacher as well as explore the notion of intentionality. Early childhood educators will have an opportunity to discuss together their interpretations of intentional teaching and how this has been demonstrated through their practice. The workshop will explore further ways to incorporate intentional teaching within the EYLF while acknowledging the children as intentional learners and co-contributors to the learning process. Planning formats will be tabled for educators to explore possibilities for the identification and inclusion of intentional teaching practices
Philosophy for Kids (and Teachers) Read more > < Read less
Topics: Education, Other
The ancient Greeks believed that philosophy begins with wonder. Philosophy for Kids’ is intended to foster that sense of wonder in students of all ages and provide students the opportunity to think for themselves about ideas and concepts they find interesting and worthwhile. This session hopes to introduce teachers to the intellectual processes involved in understanding philosophical concepts and positions and how these can be used to enhance students’ ability to think critically. Teachers will be introduced to the art and science of correct and incorrect reasoning, often referred to as critical thinking. ‘Philosophy for Kids’ hopes to open the door to the exciting way philosophers wonder about the world through a format combining the precision of philosophical thought with a bit of fun as we try and answer some of life’s big questions like `What would a fair society be like?’ and `What counts as a good reason for doing something?’.
Screen Literacy Read more > < Read less
Topics: Education, Computing Studies, Drama, Design & Technology, History, ICT, Visual Arts
- Repeated: Session 3 (room HC47)
During this workshop, participants will be guided theoretically through the process of using film-making in the classroom. Participants will be exposed to ideas about film grammar, shot composition, and dynamic use of the three act plot structure, and explore actual examples of pre-service teachers' filmmaking artefacts. By the completion of the workshop, participants can expect to have a good understanding of screen literacy and technology-mediated project based learning. This workshop is relevant to primary and secondary teachers across the curriculum, but will be of special interest to those who teach English, HSIE, Visual Art, and Design &Technology.
Session 2 Group ARegister Now > 1 x 40 minute session
Global Childhoods: Becoming Multi-Literate in the 21st Century Read more > < Read less
Topics: Education
Drawing from a collaborative cross-cultural research project with six locations in Asia (Hong Kong, Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, Thailand, and Malaysia), this presentation looks at the complexities of young children’s multi-literacy learning from a socio-cultural perspective. By looking at literacy pedagogical practices in early years, this session offers opportunities for teachers to rethink issues concerning multi-literacies, curriculum planning, and assessment. We will also make connection with the Early Year Learning Framework in Australian context to explore dimensions of early literacy teaching and learning from a critical perspective in order to (re)conceptualize notions of developmentally appropriate practices in early childhood classrooms.
Contemporary Performance Devising Practices Read more > < Read less
Topics: Education, Drama
Introduction to Creative and Performing Arts courses at Callaghan, focusing on Contemporary Performance Devising Practices. This session will be of interest to teachers of Drama and CAPA subjects at NSW High Schools. A mixture of practical exercises and a brief talk reflecting the practical and theoretical base of the CAPA strand in the Bachelor of Arts.
Maths for the future Read more > < Read less
Topics: Careers, Mathematics
The Mathematical Sciences are central to most cutting edge developments in Science, Technology, Health, Management and Commerce. A sound Mathematics education provides a universal toolkit of skills that are broadly applicable, and yet Mathematics struggles to be seen a relevant part of an education. This is despite growing demand for mathematically skilled graduates and falling participation in advanced Mathematics courses. The teaching profession is in competition for this small pool of Mathematically educated graduates, and where they cannot recruit from this pool, other teachers are required to teach away of their field of expertise. A forum "Maths for the Future: Keep Australia Competitive" was hosted by the Australian Mathematical Sciences Institute in Canberra in February 2012. It provided an overview of the state of Mathematics in Australia, with input from industry, government, all levels of education and the research community. Various policy measures were proposed and discussed, and there was high level involvement from federal ministers. This session will provide an overview of this forum and subsequent developments, and compare the national situation with that in our local region. We invite teachers and leaders interested in discussing solutions and strategies.
Rethinking Economics Teaching for Turbulent Times Read more > < Read less
Topics: Business Studies, Economics, Geography
1. Economics teaching is traditionally viewed as a rather uninspiring 'chalk and talk' approach where student participation is fairly minimal. The aim of this seminar is to discuss innovative ways to communicate 'economic knowledge' so students become 'economic naturalists' and see the workings of economics in all facets of daily live. Developing this knowledge of Economics also provides Commerce and Business Studies students with powerful analytical tools. Importantly, the turbulent global economy suggests traditional economic models that suggest an 'equilibrium' need to be questioned. This actually creates an opportunity for developing critical thinking skills while learning important principals. 2. Senior Secondary School Teachers of Economics, Commerce and Business Studies. TAFE also. 3. Explanation then discussion during presentation. Will ask for ideas before and after. 4. Yes. Developing awareness of Economics gives students deeper understanding of how society and politics interact.
Rough & Tumble Play - Why, When, How Read more > < Read less
Topics: Education
This session begins with the evidence linking Rough & Tumble Play (R&TP) with young children's development of their capacity to self regulate, a crucial element of school readiness and academic success. Biological origins and the human-specific elements of R&TP will be described. The application of R&TP in Hunter Valley projects in schools and Early Childhood Centres (Healthy Dads Healthy Kids; Building Connection Through Play) will be demonstrated and links to EC and School activities pointed out. Teachers will be offered markers for `quality' R&TP and suggestions for encouraging `safe' risk taking.
"Simply Surreal and Absolutely Abstracted" - Confidence Building exercises (for both teacher and student) in K - 6 Visual Arts Read more > < Read less
Topics: Special Education
- Multi-part session: Session 1 (room CE11) and Session 2 Group A (room CE11) (this session)
Visual Art in Creative Arts K-6 is one of six learning area syllabuses for Primary Curriculum. The Education Act (1990) sets out a minimum requirement for this syllabus as in the other five areas. Although the syllabus is designed to be used by the classroom, not all teachers feel confident about its implementation. Some students also feel apprehensive about their own ability which can have a negative impact on their performance. The practical demonstrations in this session provides the teacher with a number of tasks that when used in the classroom have the dual advantage of creating confidence in both the teacher and student. The tasks also explore new ways of using materials and techniques (Visual Arts Syllabus)and can be adapted to suit any stage. Hopefully this session will also be the starting point of a greater interest in developing tasks to stimulate students, and make their learning experiences rewarding and meaningful.
SMARTboard basics Read more > < Read less
Topics: Other
This workshop will provide staff with a basic hands-on introduction to using a SMART Board™ Interactive White Board (IWB) for teaching. On successful completion of this session participants should be able to: 1.Write notes on the display using the pen tools or by touch 2.Edit and save notes and presentations 3.Use touch to interact with any program on their computer 4.Identify reasons why a SMART Board could be useful to enhance student learning in their teaching context.
Strategies for engaging Visual Arts and Drama students through making and experiencing creative production. Read more > < Read less
Topics: Drama, Visual Arts
Drama and Visual Arts' students often exhibit passion for practical art and performance making but they are reluctant to engage in the historical or theoretical contextualisation of the ideas that underpin practical production. This session will present and discuss practical ideas and examples designed to engage students in a reflective approach to art and performance making. Within this approach, students are thrown straight into practical art and performance making activities, which then in turn become experientially charged discussion points with which to explore the history and surrounding contexts of the ideas that underpin creative production. This approach invites students to really feel like they are beginning to 'know and own' their own practical works. Moreover, students are then able to apply this engagement and enthusiasm to a broader range of pedagogical contexts.
Session 2 Group BRegister Now > 1 x 40 minute session
The changing seasons of music, music education and its relevance to today's society. Read more > < Read less
Topics: Education, Counsellors, Computing Studies, Design & Technology, History, Mathematics, Music, Science, Special Education, Visual Arts
This presentation will include the changing seasons of music, music education and its relevance to today's society. This shall include: learning strategies including research benefits of those who learn music; teaching students with disabilities; music in the context of primary, secondary and tertiary areas; health (mental and physical) of professional performers; cross-discipline collaborations and incorporating technology into teaching and practice.
Enhancing students' motivation to learn Read more > < Read less
Topics: Aboriginal, Education
We will consider current thinking about students' motivation to learn - from the perspective of educational psychology. What alienates students from school? What can teachers do to increase students' motivation to learn? How are students' academic goals intertwined with social goals? How can students be encouraged to adopt future goals, that is, how can success in school help them get into university or get into TAFE? The information to be shared in this session would be of interest both to primary and high school teachers. It would be an informal session using written scenarios and information available on the web.
Healthier School Sport Program - The importance of developing student swimming and survival skills Read more > < Read less
Topics: PDHPE
- Repeated: Session 3 Group A (room HPE)
The Forum's Healthier School Sport Program encompass a range of different programs focussed around Water Safety, Survival and Water Conservation. The session will outline the various aspects and structure of the program, the benefits of schools participating in the program, and how teachers can incorporate this into their current school sport program. The session will provide a combination of both theory and practical sessions including a demonstration of lifesaving techniques, pool rescue and first aid scenarios (dry land components to be completed by participants) and a sample of the water conservation sessions that students participate in during the program. Teachers are constantly looking for new school sport ideas and this session will provide teachers with a range of options that they can incorporate into their compulsory school sport programs.
Lawyers of the Future: Creating Aspiration and supporting first in family law Students Read more > < Read less
Topics: Careers, Counsellors, Legal Studies
Newcastle Law School has a 20 year history of innovation in legal education. The Lawyers of the future program was established in 2009 and embodies cutting edge HE transition pedagogy principles. The program includes a Schools' visit program, particularly tailored to the needs of rural and remote locations, and to students and their families who may not have considered law school as an option. Staff and students are intimately involved in designing and presenting the program at Schools. This is a unique opportunity for professional collaboration and exchange between the secondary and tertiary sectors.
Regional solutions for a sustainable future: Diamonds from Coal Read more > < Read less
Topics: Economics, Engineering, Food Technology, Geography, Science
What is Peak Oil, and Peak Coal? What are the new sustainable energy sources: solar, wind, biofeuls etc? what is sustainability? A sustainable future for our region and Australia is dependend on growing an economic futre that sits within an equitable society within a sustainable natural environment. The challenges of climate change, maintenance of biodiversity and energy security must be addresssed to ensure a long term sustainable solution. The central tenet of developing a more coherent regional vision is to stimulate a culture of social and technological innovation. Our coal industry is a significant regional asset, but is transient and more than just coal. Harnessing the cash flow, finance, engineering, manufacturing and business networks of our mining industry and supply chain to accelerate our cleantech sector could be an important natural advantage for us in the global competition for cleantech industry development. Hence "Diamonds from Coal".
Using Ipads for 21st Century Inquiry Learning in History Read more > < Read less
Topics: HSIE, ICT
New technologies, such as Ipads, are increasingly being used in schools and universities as an engaging platform for learning. This session will outline how a class set of Ipads can be used to support inquiry learning in the History KLA. As part of the Teaching Teachers for the Future project, pre-service teachers were exposed to technologically rich learning experiences that challenged them to think about the emerging possibilities for the use of new technologies in the classroom. The mobile nature of the technology as an learning aid for field experiences outside of the classroom will also be explored.
Session 3
1:45pm- 3:15pm
Register Now > 1 x 80 minute session
Artist-Book Workshop: Have fun while subverting Teacher Narratives Read more > < Read less
Topics: Education, English, History, PDHPE, Special Education, Visual Arts
This workshop session aims to show teachers the transdisciplinary application of using artist-books to engage students in learning. The practical demonstrations in this session provides the teacher with an opportunity to produce image, and narratives in two artist-book forms. The books will be constructed with multi dimensional surfaces where participants can explore a variety of 2D mediums (paint, pen, ink, white-out) and techniques such as, palimpsests (the recycling of pre-modern manuscript culture where texts were freely erased, reused, or enriched), layering (integrating word & image), typography (word & graphic design), and fragmentary text modes descending from modernist paper-based techniques of cutting and pasting (collage). The session should be of value for primary and secondary teachers who are interested in gaining practical material experiences in visual communication. This session will run as a workshop with teachers exploring the potential of paper, text, and book as hybrid materiality, refashioning traditional book-making techniques in contrast to the digitization of new media print technologies.
Hands-on with iPads Read more > < Read less
Topics: Other
This is an informal session for you to get your hands on an iPad2, and to discuss the potential application of these and similar tablet computing devices to your teaching and general work practices. The session is aimed at those with little or no prior experience with an iPad and will include orientation to basic operations and functions.
'Understanding and enacting the image of the child in the Early Years Learning Framework' Read more > < Read less
Topics: Education
The Early Years Learning Framework incorporates children's rights and a notion of children as 'active participants'. However, what we understand by children's rights to participation and children as 'active participants' are not always clear and is difficult to translate into practice. This session will provide some hands on activities to gain an understanding of these terms and help educators putting these ideas into practical considerations.
Keeping Current: Issues in Contemporary Art Read more > < Read less
Topics: Education, Design & Technology, Librarians
Useful for Art teachers wanting to update their knowledge of current art and for others wanting to draw on interdisciplinary material. Will outline major themes and issues of recent years in visual arts internationally. This will be a 60 minute lecture format but I will provide a bibliography and image list and will be available for questions and discussion for 20 minutes at the end. Relevant to the contemporary component of HSC visual art.
Quality Teaching Rounds: Supporting professional learning Read more > < Read less
Topics: Education
'Quality Teaching Rounds' is an approach to teacher professional learning that combines aspects of professional learning communities and "instructional rounds" with the Quality Teaching model in order to strengthen the professional learning that is achieved with any of these approaches used on their own. In this session, we report on a three-year longitudinal study in which teachers in four NSW schools participated in 27 Rounds (each involving a full day of professional learning activities). We share survey and classroom observation data that demonstrate statistically and practically significant differences between teachers who participated in Rounds and those (in the same schools and other schools) who did not. This research-based presentation is likely to have greatest appeal for teachers and school executive staff who have responsibility for school-based professional development.
Screen Literacy Read more > < Read less
Topics: Education, Computing Studies, Drama, Design & Technology, History, ICT, Visual Arts
- Repeated: Session 2 (room HC47)
During this workshop, participants will be guided theoretically through the process of using film-making in the classroom. Participants will be exposed to ideas about film grammar, shot composition, and dynamic use of the three act plot structure, and explore actual examples of pre-service teachers' filmmaking artefacts. By the completion of the workshop, participants can expect to have a good understanding of screen literacy and technology-mediated project based learning. This workshop is relevant to primary and secondary teachers across the curriculum, but will be of special interest to those who teach English, HSIE, Visual Art, and Design &Technology.
Session 3 Group ARegister Now > 1 x 40 minute session
Computer-based modeling of predator-prey systems Read more > < Read less
Topics: Education, Computing Studies, ICT, Science
The use of computers to simulate natural systems opens new possibilities for ecological modeling. In this presentation a generalised and parsimonious model of predator-prey systems will be demonstrated and explained. The model creates individual predator and prey objects in the computer memory and gives them rules of interaction. The model is applied to the two exclusive mammalian predator-prey systems: the Canadian lynx and snowshoe hare and the Fennoscandian mustelid and microtine systems. The model is able to reproduce the patterns evident in these systems more simply than mathematical models of the same systems. The Canadian system is of particular interest in ecology as the data go back to 1735, collected by the Hudson Bay Company which purchased the pelts of these animals from trappers. The model is also applied to a grazing herbivore system and demonstrates that herding behaviour does not require social behaviour on the part of the herbivores. This presentation may be of interest to teachers of Science as an insight into a rapidly developing area of ecological modeling and to teachers of Information Technology as an example of applied IT in scientific research.
Developing Breathing Space for Personal Wellbeing Read more > < Read less
Topics: Education, Counsellors, Other
Breathing is a marker of both constancy and change. The simple in, pause and out rhythms are key to our ability to engage with our emotions, thoughts and actions. Often we wish for more 'breathing space', trying to find a gap in our busy schedules to catch up with ourselves. If you feel like you are running hard and not ever finishing things, feeling stressed or exhausted, come to this session that will reflect on the physical, mental and creative acts of breathing and how you can potentially relocate your self in a healthier breathing space.
Healthier School Sport Program - The importance of developing student swimming and survival skills Read more > < Read less
Topics: PDHPE
- Repeated: Session 2 Group B (room HPE)
The Forum's Healthier School Sport Program encompass a range of different programs focussed around Water Safety, Survival and Water Conservation. The session will outline the various aspects and structure of the program, the benefits of schools participating in the program, and how teachers can incorporate this into their current school sport program. The session will provide a combination of both theory and practical sessions including a demonstration of lifesaving techniques, pool rescue and first aid scenarios (dry land components to be completed by participants) and a sample of the water conservation sessions that students participate in during the program. Teachers are constantly looking for new school sport ideas and this session will provide teachers with a range of options that they can incorporate into their compulsory school sport programs.
How to combat Australia's skills shortage from schools - a mathematician's view Read more > < Read less
Topics: Careers, Mathematics, Science
From 1995 the percentage of students in Australia taking high level Mathematics in Year 12 (in NSW Mathematics Extension 1 and Extension 2 courses) has fallen from 41.3% to 29.7%. This decline is affecting the number of students undertaking tertiary studies in Science and Engineering and compromising `Australia's potential to be at the forefront of global scientific and technologic development'. In this session we will talk about the reasons behind this decline and what we, mathematics teachers and schools careers advisors, could do to overcome it.
The role of Occupational Therapy in Schools Read more > < Read less
Topics: Education
Occupational Therapy is not just about adjusting the physical environment to assist children with physical disabilities negotiate access to the facilities in the environment. It is also not just about enabling children to develop writing skills. Occupational Therapy can also assist children of any ages with their higher order thinking and their skills in social interaction, regardless of their age. It can not only provide reasons for particular performance and behaviours it can assist teachers to understand and help such children achieve in academic performance and in social situations.
Session 3 Group BRegister Now > 1 x 40 minute session
A Tale of Two Acts: The National Curriculum in NSW Read more > < Read less
Topics: Education
The situation in NSW regarding National Curriculum is becoming clearer. This session will explore the reasons for this situation. The National and State frameworks will be compared and the likely consequences for NSW Teachers will be explored.
Developing a Wellness Program for You and Your School Read more > < Read less
Topics: Education, Counsellors, Other
What would a school Wellness Program mean to you, your pupils and your community? What needs could begin to be addressed? Stress? Resilience? Mindfulness? Creativity? Wellness is key to our ability to lead a more satisfying life. Our capacity to learn, communicate, resolve issues and explore opportunities are enhanced by good health, a sense of community support and creative outlets for personal expression. Teachers are important role models for their pupils and, with childhood health issues in focus, a school Wellness Program tailored to staff needs, can increase a wider interest in exercise, the arts and mental health for the whole school. Wellness@UoN has been successfully operating since 2008. Come and explore the how, what and what ifs of building a manageable, healthy program to benefit you and your school.
"Simple Discipline": a systemic but simple approach to supporting positive student behaviour Read more > < Read less
Topics: Education, Other
"Simple Discipline" is a systematic but simple approach to supporting positive student behaviour and learning which is consistent with Schoolwide Positive Behaviour Support (SWPBS) and Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL). Although potentially effective at a classroom level (in K-6 or 7-12 settings) it finds stronger application at a school wide level. The strengths of Simple Discipline are: its systematic application of 'due process' with respect to both positive and inappropriate behaviours; its basis in a simple school Code of Conduct (rather than just rules); data-based decision-making; and a strong emphasis on recognising and encouraging positive behaviours. A case study is presented to demonstrate the potential of this type of / approach to supporting positive student behaviour and learning. This session should be of interest to classroom and executive teachers across settings who are interested in developing more positive approaches' to student welfare and discipline. The presentation will be primarily presenter-driven, using a summary PPoint delivery with accompanying notes for each participant. Questions will be encouraged in the final ten minutes of the 40 minute session and the presenter would be happy to provide ongoing support to schools interested in investigating this approach further.
Support for Calculus teaching -- Using spreadsheets to engage students Read more > < Read less
Topics: Computing Studies, Mathematics, Science
1. Calculus is a powerful mathematical tool that is applicable to a broad range of real-world problems. This session will focus on classroom ready material to aid the students' understanding of calculus concepts through applications. Examples will be given that can be used to motivate and inspire students, convey the fundamental concepts, and explain how to interpret calculus into the real world. 2. This session is likely to be of interest to teachers who are or will be teaching Extension I & II mathematics. 3. This session will be run as a combination of presented material and a hands on computer lab, using spreadsheets (Excel). 4. The material presented corresponds to NSW Year 11-12 curriculum on Calculus, at the Mathematics, Extension I & II levels.
"We're a part of it": knowledge making, cosmos nurturing and Yolngu mathematics in Arnhem Land Read more > < Read less
Topics: Aboriginal, Education, Geography, History, HSIE, Mathematics
Yolngu mathematics refers to the complex matrix of patterns, relationships, shapes, motions and rhythms of time and space that underpin the ways that Yolngu, Indigenous people of northeast Arnhem Land nourish and are nourished by their Country. The notion of Yolngu mathematics engages with the active agency of Country, including animals, plants, wind, spirit beings and other agents, in a way that is not solely human-centered. It challenges Western knowledges, including Western ideas of mathematics, through its fundamental reliance on human and more-than-human connectivity and situatedness. This presentation will discuss the notion of Yolngu mathematics and how it reveals ALL knowledge as situated. It will be interesting to teachers engaged in the social sciences and Aboriginal education as well as those in mathematics who are interested in learning from intercultural understandings of mathematics.