“Let us boldly become citizens of the digital world…
The revolution taking place in communications media and in information technologies represents a great and thrilling challenge; may we respond to that challenge with fresh energy and imagination as we seek to share with others the beauty of God.”
Pope Francis: January 2014
Welcome to the CESA Learning and Technologies site.
In his message Pope Francis highlights the significance of being present in the new ways of world communication, collaborating as citizens of the world. His message is as one for us all – students, leaders, teachers and parents. As Catholic educators we need to continually be at the leading edge of ethically integrating digital technologies to enhance learning outcomes for students.
Educators and leaders must begin to engage in a different paradigm of pedagogy. No longer is it a case of being the owner of the knowledge imparting on to our students. The skills of the 21st Century demand a collaborative approach – guiding learning rather than “filling an empty vessel.”
One of the more recent challenges in educational leadership is being present, role modelling and leading change in establishing and embedding digital pedagogy in contemporary teaching practices. While educators and schools recognize the importance of leading in the new ways of education delivery, it is also recognized as a complex task. The utilization of technology in today’s modern society and the necessity for embracing digital pedagogies that develop students 21st Century Skills is a driver for innovative, contemporary classroom teaching practices.
In a fast-changing world, information today will be outdated tomorrow, rather than learn content, students need the skills to be able to learn, communicate and work collaboratively. Digital technologies enable global connections and connected knowledge creation. Digital pedagogy is about developing global citizens.
The Australian Curriculum recognizes ICT Capabilities as essential in developing learning opportunities. These proficiencies echo the broad set of identified 21st Century skills that empower students to embrace a shared learning culture. The skills include creativity and innovation; critical thinking, problem solving, decision making; life-long learning; collaboration and communication; ICT literacy; consciousness of being a local and global citizen; and personal and social responsibility. 21t Century skills are not about the tools or the technology, they are about learning. About learning together. Our students need to be able to be productive, self-directed and effective communicators, understanding digital communications and technologies, and not be overwhelmed by the fast pace of change in their lives.
“Collective capacity building involves the increased ability of educators at all levels of the system to learn from and with one another with a focus and a coherent strategy for improving learning”
Michael Fullan 2013
Fullan’s quote focuses us on the obvious – any strategy aimed at improving teacher quality should, at its heart, be about improving the student learning experience and outcome. In relation to digital technologies it is paramount that the learning drives the technology not the other way around. Teachers and students become pedagogical partners.
We hope that this site becomes a useful resource for CESA Teachers and Leaders to build capacity in utilising and integrating digital technologies to improve student learning outcomes.