Reimagining Education
This April, we had the great pleasure of taking fourteen Australian educational leaders to Dallas, Texas to visit six New Tech schools that are at the forefront of educational reform. These leaders had the opportunity to network with educators, principals and experts from all over the USA, gaining insight into the most recent practices and developments in project-based learning, school leadership, and educational innovation.
We were welcomed into schools by students and teachers alike, had some incredible hands-on learning experiences and learnt so much from what we saw. Here are our key observations below. Why not join us on our next trip?
Project-Based Learning that Fosters Academic Success and Skills for Success in Life
We observed firsthand the extraordinary NTN student outcomes that these schools strive to attain. Students were highly engaged in project-based learning, which not only taught them academic content but also required them to collaborate, communicate, and develop leadership skills. It was awe-inspiring to observe how these students were able to take responsibility for their learning, work independently, and provide peer support, an achievement made possible through strong staff learning communities and instructional coaches in every school.
Community partners for meaningful learning
We witnessed how connecting with community partners increased student engagement and added authenticity. We saw how NTN schools collaborated with local businesses, organisations, and community leaders to provide their students with meaningful, relevant, and impactful real-world learning experiences.
We observed students engaged in projects with real-world applications and direct ties to the needs and difficulties of their local community. It was truly astounding to see how these partnerships brought learning to life and provided students with a deeper understanding of how their education could impact the world. These connections to authentic community partners also afforded students the chance to develop important career readiness skills and build valuable networks that could contribute to their future success.
Student Voice and School Community
From student-led solutions to poor behaviour, an asset based approach to cultural and neurodiversity, Flex Fridays with students designing their own schedule, even students running professional development for teachers: we saw how NTN has supported school leaders to intentionally create space for student voice, leadership and belonging in the school culture.
Literacy and Numeracy alongside purposeful use of technology
We saw how these NTN schools prioritised literacy and numeracy, with students employing a variety of technological tools for creation, communication, and research. It was evident that these schools were preparing their students for success in tertiary education and the workplace by offering relevant, hands-on learning opportunities. We were impressed with the outcomes that NTN schools work toward and the positive influence they have on their students' education and future success.
Explore what’s possible
This experience provided our Australian leaders with valuable opportunities to reflect on their own practice, share ideas and strategies with their peers, and develop new perspectives on how to innovate in their own schools. By participating in this global network, New Tech Network Australia is able to remain on the cutting edge of education innovation and bring the most recent practices and insights back to their schools and communities.
