The Virtual Staffroom: Recent Episodes
Technology 4 Learning
Welcome to the Virtual Staffroom. Join the Technology 4 Learning team of teachers as they explore the latest in educational technology minus the ‘geek speak’. What can you expect? Each episode follows the school day all the way from assembly to the car park and everything in-between!
New episodes added fortnightly!
Disclaimer: Please note all views expressed by the podcast presenters are their personal opinions and not representative of the NSW Department of Education. Discussions are not endorsements of third party products, services or events. For all the show notes and additional information visit https://t4l.link/VirtualStaffroom for more. Description by Technology 4 Learning.
The team is thrilled to chat with a huge game changer in the STEM space, Corey Tutt. Corey shares his personal journey that led him to form Deadly Science, an organisation dedicated to providing STEM resources to remote communities across Australia. A proud Kamilaroi man and an award-winning author and a leader in the STEM world, Corey has brought First Nations science to the fore. You won’t want to miss this deadly chat.
In this Virtual Staffroom first, join the team on location at EduTECH 2022 as they explore the latest in technology innovations and trends in the classroom. Discover how a 3D food printer can convert insect powder into something edible, hear about a manufacturing simulation that uses three robotic arms communicating through sensors to power a conveyor belt and learn about the emerging trends of sustainability, drone technology, artificial intelligence, Citizen Science and more. This episode will inspire you with valuable insights into how these unique innovations are transforming teaching and learning in the classroom.
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 old fashioned 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.
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!
Following on from the recent Bushfire Relief Phoenix Conference for NSW DoE schools affected by bushfires , 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.
What do recipes and Artificial Intelligence have in common? More than you might think! Tune in to Episode 17 of the Virtual Staffroom as we talk with Google Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Specialist Sara Robinson. We unpack what AI is, relate it to something we all do everyday, and hear about a rather unusual project mixing Maltesers and Marmite! Plus, we hear Sara’s amazing journey to where she is today, a story all about the power of curiosity and lifelong learning. To finish, the team share their favourite AI resources to continue your AI journey!
T4L digs deep to chat with vertebrate paleontologist at the Australian Museum, Dr Matt McCurry. Matt and the T4L team have been working behind the scenes on creating an exciting virtual tour of the museum for kids everywhere. Matt also gives us an inside look at paleontology – from the hands-on work on dig sites, to the tech behind setting up virtual exhibitions. Join us for this exciting discussion on the future of museums (plus all the regular resource roundups).
T4L gets revved up in Episode 15 of the Virtual Staffroom with Molly Taylor – Australian rally car driving champion. Molly is the first and only female driver to win the Australian Rally Championship and is currently racing in the Extreme E Racing events with bespoke electric sports vehicles. We go behind the scenes to talk to Molly about the skills involved in driving, as well as learning about the tech behind team driving in extreme environments. We also hear how the sport is getting behind sustainability and taking climate action. Plus - Linda, Joe and Yvette update us on their favourite resources.
Look up in the sky! Is it a bird, is it a plane? No – it's a drone! Drones can deliver everything from books to groceries to coffees – but what if we used them for the good of humankind? In Episode 14 of the Virtual Staffroom we meet Eric Peck - CEO of Swoop Aero. Swoop Aero was the winner of the New York Times Good Tech Award in 2018 and the pioneer of the world’s first drone-delivered vaccine. Plus, Linda and Joe point you in the right direction to get you thinking about tech for good in your classroom
Never heard of a micro:bit? Find out in Episode 13 how this little piece of tech goes a long way towards the power of good. The team meets Waris Candra from the micro:bit Foundation all the way from Hong Kong and he updates us on a global micro:bit challenge getting students to problem-solve real-world problems and work towards UN Global Goals. Plus, Yvette, Joe and Linda also share their latest finds for your digital classroom
Get your creative juices flowing with Episode 12 of the Virtual Staffroom. Award-winning author for kids and teens, Tristan Bancks shares his insights on how he writes, his observations on how students create today - and how he personally uses different platforms to research, organise and synthesise his own work. You’ll be inspired – plus the team shares their favourite digital writing and creativity resources to get you and your students creating.
How many pings, alerts and notifications do you receive a day? In Episode 11 of the Virtual Staffroom, we meet thought-provoking neuroproductivity researcher Dr Kristy Goodwin and chat about digital wellbeing and the impact of technology on our productivity. If you’re keen to use technology meaningfully in the classroom, and maybe switch up how you use it yourself, don’t miss this conversation. Plus, the team shares their favourite resources in this space to empower your journey with tech
Have you thought about your digital footprint? You might after this discussion. In Episode 9, we talk cookies, cybersafety and fake news with special guest Kellie Britnell from the Office of the eSafety Commissioner. We also celebrate the global phenomenon that is Safer Internet Day, as well as explore the evolving landscape of digital citizenship. Plus, a roundup of your favourite resources for your digital classroom.
T4L ushers in Hour of Code and Computer Science week with a code-tastic Episode 9 of the Virtual Staffroom. First up, we head to Seattle for a chat with the team behind Minecraft’s Hour of Code challenge this year and meet developer Haro Moncovias and education guru Susie Tinker from the M:EE team. Closer to home, we speak with game producer and one of the founders of Geek Girl Academy, Lisy Kane, about her career, code and the creativity involved in game development. Tune in for your ultimate Hour of Code starter kit!
Take the leap into 2021 as the the Virtual Staffroom meets T4L Director, Mark Greentree. Join Mark on his journey - from pulling apart and fixing computers as a primary school teacher to his current role and working to deliver major technology outcomes. With some recent major policy and funding announcements, Mark shares his vision for excellence in teaching and equity in this inspiring episode. Plus, Joe, Yvette and Linda discuss the latest in edtech.
The team recaps day two of the EduTECH conference with its highlights and picks. Professor Pasi Sahlberg - Deputy Director, Research with the Gonski Institute For Education at UNSW joins us as we reflect on the rollercoaster ride of 2020 and what we can learn for the future.
We wrap up day one of the EduTECH Conference with our top picks and insights. Visionary changemaker Richard Gerver (UK) is in the house as we jump in our DeLorean and look at the world in 2040 - and how it can influence the classroom of today.
This episode Yvette gives you all the goss on EduTECH and how you can score one of 10 free tickets for your school. We head to Wilcannia to hear one teachers’ story on the power of networking and her EduTECH 2019 story. Joe challenges you to think about how smart EdTECH AI really is. Lastly Linda heads deep into Sydney Harbour with a great resource from The Sydney Opera House. All this and more on the Virtual Staffroom.
We hope you're ready to go intergalactic as we explore outer space with Professor Lisa Harvey Smith. Joe challenges you to give augmented reality a try for homework. Linda talks about LifeLauncher, a tool to help students plan for the future and Yvette takes us on a Big Data journey starring tomatoes!
All this and more on the Virtual Staffroom.
For all the show notes and additional information visit https://t4l.link/VirtualStaffroom for more.
On this episode we get geeky with our own Papa Tech Greig as he talks all the tech you need to take your celebrations online. We hear from Billabong High School’s Nim Weerakoon about their ‘Lockdown Getdown Online Disco’. Learn how Sylvania Heights Public School Principal Clint White used Brightcove to take his assemblies virtual. Finally we take a trip across the pond to hear how schools in the US are graduating online with Director of Technology and Media from Newtown County Schools Dr. Adam Phyall.For all the show notes and additional information visit https://t4l.link/VirtualStaffroom for more.
On today's episode we dive in and hear about Eddie Woo’s passion for Maths and also his top tips and tricks for engaging students. Joe introduces you to NSW’s Smart Digital Twin. Linda takes us on an adventure with ‘Imagineering in a Box’ from Khan Academy and Yvette retells a story of the power of telepresence and 3D Printing to do good in Northern NSW.For all the show notes and additional information visit https://t4l.link/VirtualStaffroom for more.
Welcome to the Virtual Staffroom. Join the team this week as we head to Cockatoo Island virtually with Yvette. Dive in and hear about one schools journey to harness the power of LinkedIn Learning to flip their classrooms. After we chat with drone guru Dr. Catherine Ball about World of Drones Education and her awe inspiring journey and Linda talks about her love of T4L Kids TV. All this and more on the first ever edition of The Virtual Staffroom...class is in session.
For all the show notes and additional information visit https://t4l.link/VirtualStaffroom for more