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E-learning experts from around Australia gather to discuss digital learning and e-safety in schools

Educators from across Australia gathered in Toowoomba today to look at ways of further enhancing the role of technology in classroom teaching in Catholic schools.

Dr Pat Coughlan, Executive Director: Toowoomba Catholic Schools, who welcomed The Catholic Network Australia Digital Learning Network to the region, said the group’s work included the creation of e-safety resources, professional development to improve the digital literacy of teachers, and building teachers’ capacity in delivering the national Technologies curriculum.

“There seems to be more and more discussion in the community and the media around technology and young people, so I think for many of us, the use of technology within schools is more front of mind than ever,” Dr Coughlan said.

“This group has a key focus on cyber-safety in the classroom and supports schools in keeping students safe online which is extremely important,” he said.

“On a more positive note, we know that digital learning delivers remarkable outcomes for our students and as a system, Toowoomba Catholic Schools sees the development of our teachers in this area as a key priority.”

“We also continue to support our schools in developing their Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) programs, as these curriculum areas, as well as being extremely important in their own right, are fundamental to equipping students with key skills such as problem-solving, critical analysis and creative thinking,” Dr Coughlan concluded.

 The group are in Toowoomba until Thursday.