TeachX > 2024 > Innovation > Winner
Anna's transformative technology teaching has enhanced digital literacy and student engagement at Loganlea State High School.
Head of Technology and Vocational Education and Training (VET) since 2023, she has spearheaded several innovative projects integrating digital tools across the curriculum and driving substantial improvements in student outcomes.
One of Anna's standout initiatives is "Pixel Pulse," an interdisciplinary project that pairs senior dance students with junior digital excellence students. Senior dancers choreograph routines that are then mimicked by robots programmed by the junior students using Micromelon Robotics. This project not only enhances digital skills within the Arts Department but creates real-world opportunities for the students, contributing to an increase in academic performance.
Anna has also incorporated 3D printing into the Certificate II in Creative Industries course to address sustainability issues. She delivers professional development sessions to staff, including a workshop on Animoto for English teachers to boost student engagement and improve academic data further.
To enhance digital skills, Anna developed a self-paced Digital Badging course aligned with the ACARA 9.0 Digital Literacy General Capability. Launched in Term 4 of 2023, the course has awarded 135 Bronze, 23 Silver, and 4 Gold and Platinum badges to students, fostering greater digital proficiency.
In addition to her work with digital literacy, Anna has engaged students in sustainability projects, including smart garden sensors developed using 'Micro:bit' coding to monitor temperature, humidity and light intensity and optimise plant growth through their partnership with Stempunks. Her students have also collaborated with industry partners to advance Loganlea's Sustainability Management Plan.
Anna's proactive approach to securing funding has led to a $5,000 grant from Telstra and Young Change Agents, enabling a Digital Business elective course for Year 9 students. This program offers practical entrepreneurial experiences, including opportunities to attend events hosted by the University of Queensland, the Kingston East Neighbourhood Group, and the Australian School of Entrepreneurship.
Tags: TeachX > 2024 > Innovation > Winner