Description
This very hands-on workshop introduces and explores the iPad ScratchJr app as well as a range of other simple activities for engaging junior primary students in the fundamentals of computational thinking (the Digital Technologies subject) and the ICT Capability. It would best suit teachers and support staff of Years 1-4.
ScratchJr, a free iPad app, is the introductory version of the powerful Scratch programming app that is used in older grades and popular around the world. ScratchJr is icon-based and has many simple ready-made features to make coding accessible. These features allow students to explore elements of computational thinking, such as sequencing, patterns, symbols, algorithms and logic while learning about menu navigation and common elements of user interfaces. In addition, ScratchJr has enough features to still challenge more able or older students. Used creatively, first-time coders in upper primary could still be challenged, opening up opportunities for "buddy-based" collaborations between classes.
Other simple apps, resources, tech equipment and "unplugged" (non computer based) activities for supporting computational thinking, and links to the DT curriculum, will also be explored in practical ways.
Participants will become familiar with the terminology and intentions of the Digital Technologies subject and its link to STEaM/STEM.
AISWA equipment is available to use.
Presenters
Jan Clarke (AISWA Staff)
Manager Of Learning Technologies And STEM
Jan Clarke has been with AISWA since 2008. She has 40 years of primary and secondary teaching experience, including G&T and Computing, HoLA for T&E and Certificate qualifications. She actively incorporated ICT in her teaching for over 30 years and has a strong belief in its potential for student engagement and learning. Jan has a BEd (Curriculum), Grad Dip in Comp Sci (Education) and a Cert IV in WTA. On behalf of AISWA she has: led the roll-outs of all WACE T&E subjects, the ICT Capabilities and K-10 Technologies subjects; represented AISWA for ISA, SCSA and ACARA and various STEM initiatives; supported the DER; collaborated with universities on research projects; delivered keynotes, papers and workshops at national and international conferences; developed and shared many practical ICT-related resources, including internationally published works; and managed the multi-skilled AISWA Tech Team. She takes great pride in supporting WA Independent Schools.
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Segments
Event Segment
Date / Time
3 Apr 2019 Starts: 09:00 Finishes: 15:00Delivery Format : In Person
AISWA Training Room Suite 6A (First Floor)
PL Hours : 6.00
Learning Area
- Early Childhood
- ICT Skills and Integration
- STEM
- Technologies
School Area
- Early Childhood (PK - 2)
- Middle Primary (3-6)
- Education Assistants