New digital technologies focus in 2017

It will use computer coding, combined with critical thinking, to help students unravel problems and then design and generate digital solutions.

This will include students being taught how computers work, how they are built and how to create code.

However, 50 per cent of the curriculum can also be taught without using a computer, or via “unplugged learning”.

The foundation to level 10 curriculum is compulsory from this year in all government and catholic primary and secondary schools.

Digital technologies is part of a new curriculum which will be introduced in all Victorian schools in 2017 which will have a strong focus on the STEM (science, technology, engineering, maths) subjects.

The state government is spending $21.6 million to implement the new curriculum, including training 60 teachers across 30 secondary schools to teach year 7 and 8 STEM subjects.

The government has also set ambitious student performance targets, including a 25 per cent increase in the number of year nine students reaching the highest maths achievement level and 33 per cent more 15-year-olds reaching the top science levels.

Education Minister James Merlino said 10 technology schools across Victoria, including one in Ballarat due to open next year at Federation University’s SMB campus, will provide a shared campus for neighbouring secondary schools to access STEM technology and resources.

“We want all Victorian kids to have the opportunity to develop the skills they need for the jobs of tomorrow,” Mr Merlino said.

“The digital technologies curriculum will enable students to become confident and creative developers of digital solutions through computer coding and other advanced skills.”

Talbot Primary School began computer programming classes, called Code Club, last year.

Principal Sharon Ranger said the use of IT and coding in education gave the pupils the ability to control technology rather than just using it.