Cognition

The Digital Technologies Guidelines (DTG) is a professional learning project aimed at senior secondary school (years 11-13) digital technology teachers. The project is one facet of a larger solution for addressing the shortage of skilled ICT employees in New Zealand and ensuring New Zealand can participate effectively in a fast-changing global environment. Facilitated by the Cognition project team, the DTG was first trialled as part of a foundation phase in 2007/2008 with a group of 13 pilot schools around New Zealand. 

The DTG project’s key goals include:

• supporting improved pedagogical practices in the area of digital technology
• developing clear links to the New Zealand Curriculum
• providing a common framework for teachers working in this area
• providing a platform for closer alignment with industry and tertiary providers
• focusing on developing and encouraging confident, connected, actively involved students through interesting, creative and exciting learning opportunities.

Cognition is now setting up the second or development phase of this project. Fifty schools have been confirmed as ‘DTG schools’ for this phase, including large and small secondary schools, area schools, private schools and a kura kaupapa. These schools, spread across New Zealand in regional clusters, will be implementing the DTG in their school environments between August 2008 and July 2009.

As well as school clusters in each region, it is intended to facilitate the formation of Regional Interest Groups (RIGs) involving local industry and tertiary providers, as well as professional leaders from the school cluster groups. Through these RIGs, it is hoped that partnerships between schools and industry/tertiary will be fostered and/or strengthened.

A key component of this development phase was the recently held inaugural Digital Technologies professional learning symposium – an  important event, which was organised by the Cognition project team. This was a key opportunity for digital technology teachers and industry/tertiary partners to meet and discuss key aspects of education within this area, and how students can be encouraged to move beyond school into exciting digital technology futures.

Professional leader – Tracy Bowker
Email Tracy

Symposium coordinator – Micheal King
Email Micheal