Programming in the Digital Technologies curriculum

Objectives: In this workshop, participants will unpack the technical and conceptual expectations for computer programming in the Australian Curriculum: Digital Technologies. This includes the specific requirements described in the producing and implementing sequence of content descriptors – and implicit requirements that underpin these content descriptors. We will also unpack the relationship them and the other content descriptors in the processes and production skills strand and representation of data in the knowledge and understanding strand. Teachers will have an opportunity to try a range of practical coding activities covering each band level and discuss how they directly address the relevant content descriptors. Finally, we will discuss the wide range of opportunities for integrating computer programming with other learning areas, especially in primary. Intended Audience: Primary or Secondary Teachers Duration: 180 minutes or 360 minutes Workshop Content: 1) Unpacking the Digital Technologies content descriptors 2) The relationship between implementation and other key concepts 3) Hands on activities for coding in the classroom, including: a) Beebots b) Lightbot c) code.org and the Hour of Code d) NCSS Challenge 4) Embedded systems programming with Arduino and Raspberry Pi 5) Integrated projects across learning areas Qualifications/Experience: -       Dr. James Curran – Associate Professor, University of Sydney; Director of the National Computer Science School (NCSS); ACCE/ACS Leader of the Year 2014; Writer, Australian Curriculum: Digital Technologies -       Bruce Fuda – Associate Principal, Gungahlin College; President of Information Technology Educators ACT; ACCE/ACS Educator of the Year 2016; Adviser, Australian Curriculum: Digital Technologies Participant Requirements: Participants must also bring their own computer that will allow them to work on developing materials for their school, and be prepared to leave the session with something tangible. Space/Equipment Requirements: Space suitable for the total number of participants to work in small teams of 2-4 or independently. Table space for each group is essential, and tables should be arranged to encourage collaboration and discussion. A data projector is also required for presenters. Internet Requirements: Internet access for all participants will be necessary.