Subscribe to the Virtual Staffroom today on your favourite podcast platform for your fortnightly dose of tech! Join T4L’s podcast crew of Joachim, Linda and Yvette as they interview special industry guests, unpack great new resources for teachers and discuss the latest in edtech. The Virtual Staffroom is fun, fresh and thought-provoking - find all our episodes below or find us on your podcast platform of choice.
In this episode of the Virtual Staffroom, you’ll learn all about the latest tech tools and programs that were highlighted at EduTECH, a huge educational technology conference that took place in August 2022. Join Linda and Joe, along with their special guest hosts, as they reflect on the standout concepts that inspired them at EduTECH. Amongst the many concepts designed to improve student outcomes through effective use of tech in the classroom, our podcast hosts also explore the school stories that inspired them. These include how technology can support Aboriginal education and improve attendance and inclusion for Indigenous students, how one school aligned digital literacy across their entire school community and particular programs that connected with students and inspired their learning. Our hosts then discuss emerging trends in the digital aspects of the curriculum, such as teaching students how to be a cyber friend to help alleviate cyberbullying, empowering teachers to access professional learning through social media and enhancements to accessibility and assistive technology tools.
The Virtual Staffroom heads to the nation’s capital in this new bite-sized podcast! The team chats with digital learning education officer Jo Taplin at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra. Get an insight into how the Australian War Memorial works with students and teachers around the country with a focus on both storytelling and commemoration. We also explore ways in which you can bring some of these important War Memorial resources into the classroom using Main Learning Displays (MLDs) to encourage discussions in this space. It caps off three great episodes on MLDs and virtual resources.
The black rod, the speaker and the bear pit – all things we summon up when we think of the hallowed halls of the Parliament of NSW. Walk the corridors of power with learning manager Daniela Giorgi who shares the power of online resources from the sacred halls. Power up your classroom experience with a virtual tour and explore how you can share the processes behind democracy with your students on an MLD. Take the Virtual Staffroom with you on your next walk or as you ponder the backdrop of the federal election.
Time for a cup of tea and a podcast? Or perhaps time to walk the dog around the block? Why don’t you take The Virtual Staffroom with you and explore the power of Main Learning Displays (MLDs) in your classroom. Virtual excursions expert Bonnie Tratt talks us through taking your students to the Great Barrier Reef or even blasting off to the NASA launch station. We also explore the processes behind the corridors of power and all the resources on offer from the Museum of Australian Democracy (MoAD) with learning manager Stephanie Smith. Plus, the T4L team chats about the resources to help you get the most out of your MLD. To infinity and beyond!
Telepresence robots are on the move, powered by students and staff across the state. But what are they exactly? Tune in to find out how these robots-on-wheels have the power to support students in the classroom from a remote location. The team explores the power of telepresence with Tingxi Tan, creative force and co-founder of these robots at OhmniLabs. Don’t miss this chat exploring how robotics and coding is changing access to education in NSW. Plus, the team rounds up their favourite resources for Hour of Code in Week 10, Term 4.
T4L gets a dose of future shock when they’re joined by leading tech podcaster and broadcaster, Trevor Long. Trevor reviews his picks for top tech in 2021 and then casts an eye to the future to make some bold predictions. Join Joe, Linda and Yvette as they discuss how tech will intersect with education even further in the year to come and strap in for a ride through the latest Edtech resources from the crew.
Does the image of a #1 New York Times bestselling author conjure up a large mahogany desk, sheafs of paper and a glowing laptop? In reality, the life of a busy bestselling, world-famous author is one equipped for writing on the run, gathering ideas and chapters between virtual meet and greets with readers, editors and publishers. Meet Heather Morris, the Australian author of the Tattooist of Auschwitz, and hear about how she works, what tech infuses her creative life and get a snapshot into the toolbox of the modern storyteller. Plus, the team discusses new resources and more for your classrooms.
Ever thought about how the power of online data can positively impact the world? The team chats with data ‘detective’ Chris Poulter from Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) Combine about how online research and deep data builds intelligence with the power to change the world for the better. Complementing this conversation, the team also unpacks the power of the Cybermarvel campaign, a month-long cyber safety campaign brought you by the department. Also featured is the team’s regular round-up of resources to empower you and your students.
Did you know that Esports is one of the biggest sports in the world with its own teams, arenas, stars and infrastructure? In Episode 24, T4L explores the huge appeal of Esports among students and tackles some of the questions around its place in the curriculum and school. Join the crew as they chat with Laylah Bulman from Minecraft: Education Edition who brings her perspective as an Esports expert, principal and parent to the forum. Plus, Yvette, Linda and Joe also round up their favourite resources to get your students collaborating.
The T4L teams pulls out the crystal ball in this episode as they explore the future of transport, roads and mobility with Amelia Johns – NRMA's Electric Vehicle (EV) Division Manager. Join Joe, Yvette and Linda for a forward-thinking discussion on electric vehicles in Australia and what the impact will be on roads, drivers and careers of the future. Plus, the team talks about all the resources you need for Science Week and beyond.
Everyone knows Canva, but did you know the story behind it has a very special education link? T4L is joined by Canva co-founder Cameron Adams, who shares the story of Canva and their vision of putting the power of design in the hands of many – including teachers. Cameron gives us an insight into this powerhouse Australian tech company and how technology can democratise digital production. Plus, Joe, Yvette and Linda tell you how students, teachers and staff in the NSW Department of Education can get access to Canva for Education right now.
In this final instalment of a three-part series focused on teaching and learning online, the team speak with Mary Morrison, Education Wellbeing Lead from Smiling Mind to learn more about their digital tools and resources that could help you, your students and your school community through these tumultuous times. From self-care packs to making the most of the Smiling Mind App plus loads of top tips and routines, this episode is packed with goodness.
In part two of a three-part series on teaching and learning online, the team get down on the ground and speak with Virginia Cluff, Head Teacher Science from Aurora College, NSW’s Online Selective High School for whom the digital classroom is just part of her daily jam! We explore the teacher’s journey, the role of stage and faculty leaders and also unearth some gems of gold to make your digital classroom shine.
Information in using live video with students
The first in a three-part series focused on teaching and learning online, the team speak with Zhi Soon General Manager of Evidence and Impact at the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership to discover what the evidence says about online learning. From questions to ask yourself when planning, finding a screen time balance and examples of best practice, this episode is packed with intel and insights. Plus the team share some left of centre online learning resources!
Information in using live video with students
Following on from the recent Bushfire Relief Phoenix Conference for NSW DoE schools affected by bushfires, floods and other events, T4L has created a special edition podcast focusing on resilience, school leadership and how schools can build back better. Our special guest is Kathy Powzun, Executive Director of the Bushfire Relief Strategy and she shares her insights and knowledge on how resilience and sharing of stories can help support schools rebuild physically and mentally. We also catch up with other very special guests from the conference on this important episode of the Virtual Staffroom.
