Presbyterian Ladies’ College has received a national award for its use of new technologies in teaching. Principal Beth Blackwood was presented the Australian Award for Teaching Excellence by Minister for Education, Julia Gillard, in Canberra today.
The school has been highly commended in the “School and its Community” category for its extensive use of information technologies, which enables learning environments to be tailored to individual student needs.
“Our development of digital content and resources has meant students are able to learn in myriad ways, at different rates, within and beyond the school walls,” Ms Blackwood said.
“Particular attention is paid to embedding thinking skills. Teachers can tailor teaching materials to particular students and parents can engage through ready access to curriculum materials.”
Education technologies have a long history at PLC, with the school being one of the first in Australia to introduce a student laptop programme in 1992.
More recently the school has implemented a range of digital content applications, including iTunes U, which enables students to access class instruction, course materials and lectures beyond the classroom. Launched earlier this month in partnership with Scotch College, the two schools are the first in Australia to embrace the digital content provider – until now only universities have used iTunesU.
The Australian Awards for Teaching Excellence are the peak national awards for the teaching profession and celebrate teaching and its contribution to the nation.
To view a full list on award winners or further information, visit www.teachingaustralia.edu.au
