Teachers build skills to prepare students for a digital future

Twenty-four teachers from eight schools across Perth’s southern suburbs are strengthening their digital teaching skills through a Scitech professional learning program, helping future-proof students for an increasingly digital world. 

Developed and delivered by Scitech, Alcoa Foundation Real World Digital Technologies is a one-term professional learning program that helps teachers integrate digital technologies into everyday teaching. 

Scitech Learning and Engagement Officer Stephanie Massara said the program explored using micro:bits – pocket-sized computers that make coding and electronics fun and accessible – while demonstrating how digital technologies can be embedded across a range of learning areas. 

“Digital technologies are no longer a specialist skill – they’re a fundamental part of how we learn, work and solve problems,” Mrs Massara said. 

“At the same time, technologies are rapidly changing, and time-poor teachers don’t always have opportunities to learn how to bring new technologies into the classroom.  

“Alcoa Foundation Real World Digital Technologies encourages teachers to embrace digital technologies as an opportunity to learn alongside their students, using their existing teaching expertise to foster curiosity, creativity and critical thinking. 

“Scitech also supports teachers through workshops and tailored individual consultations, and by providing teaching materials and micro:bits.” 

Mandurah Baptist College teacher Philippa Hunt has been teaching digital technologies for 10 years and said professional learning remained an important part of staying current. 

“I’m always interested in trying something new because that’s part of the job – technology is ever changing and constantly evolving,” Ms Hunt said. 

“Micro:bits are a really excellent way to tie coding and computer theory into a practical, hands-on activity. 

“It’s user friendly in that even my children who need support or assistance can still access the technology – it’s not intimidating.” 

Mandurah Baptist College teacher Philippa Hunt and Cooloongup Primary School teacher Mat Howell participate in the workshop.

St Bernadette’s Catholic Primary School teacher Callum Haddow said digital technology lessons were helping students develop confidence, communication and problem-solving skills. 

“They love the chance to be hands-on with any kind of technology,” Mr. Haddow said. 

“I think it’s good for their problem solving. 

“They’re really feeding off each other, and their communication is really sharpening up. 

“A memorable moment has been seeing some of the kids that are normally a bit reserved and have figured things out then become the go-to person for the other kids when they need a bit of help.” 

Thanks to the support of the Alcoa Foundation, Scitech is delivering the program to teachers at Mandurah Baptist College, Falcon Primary School, St Bernadette’s Catholic Primary School, Orelia Primary School, Cooloongup Primary School, Warnbro Primary School, Tuart Rise Primary School and West Byford Primary School in 2026. 

For more information about the program, visit www.scitech.org.au/alcoa-foundation-digital-technologies-enrichment-program