Grand (re)Designs : Technology and contemporary learning

Changes associated with the development of a global, knowledge-based world, together with a growing understanding of how people learn, have shifted the focus of education from merely gaining and replicating knowledge, to developing learners who can transfer and apply their knowledge within and beyond the classroom. Value is placed on the ability to innovate and create new knowledge. Learning is differentiated, interactive and co-created and many schools are responding to this challenge.
Five years ago, St Columba's College Essendon began a journey of redesign to accommodate the reality of the 'flatter' world and prepare students for the future world of work in globalised economies. The students respond to a pedagogy and curriculum that encourages engagement and inspires them to further learning and by moving to a student centred contemporary approach we have observed the diversity of skills and thinking strategies in the student and teacher population of the college is celebrated.
The redesign is comprehensive with each element of equal importance. The focal points were organisational structures, physical spaces, the adoption of contemporary tools, curriculum design, assessment and transforming educational practices.
In the presentation we will spend a little time outlining the key elements of the redesign, offer some analysis and reflection on the experience so far and importantly share models/exemplars that not only work for the students but also move the adults toward contemporary learning.

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