November 2009 Vol. 1, Issue 10 (PDF - 16.2Mb) - Department of ...

“Advances in computer technology have changed the way we learn, find
information and interact with others. Young Victorians in particular have
embraced this cyberspace revolution at home and at school, but the openness
and ease of online communication comes with a downside – threats, hacking,
inappropriate comments and bullying. Respect for ourselves, others and the
community is the key to a healthy, friendly and productive community –
both on and offline.”
Minister for Education Bronwyn Pike said the summit was among a
range of the actions the Government was taking to increase respect within
communities. “We are asking young people to become part of the solution
to the social issues that not only affect young people but also each and every
one of us,” she said. “By seeking input and involvement from our young
people we can all work together to promote harmonious communities
online and offline.”
As an outcome of the summit, students’ opinions will be collected for
consideration in refining policies and practices regarding the responsible
use of digital technologies. A declaration and an action plan will be drafted
that can be adopted by Victorian schools to demonstrate their student-led
commitment to positive online learning experiences.
What teachers think
“Cyberbullying is cruel. It’s personal and it’s
very cowardly. Unfortunately, it’s facilitated at
any time of the day or night thanks to modern
technology.”
Elida Brereton
Principal, Camberwell High School
“It comes down to encouraging students to make
proper choices and to treat others with respect. ”
Scott Balliet
Courtenay Gardens Primary School
“There’s a lot of finger pointing at teachers, but
it’s parents who are out of the loop when it comes
to cyberbullying. One thing that schools could be
doing is running more information sessions for
parents on cyberbulling.”
Briony Heneberry
Teacher, Brentwood Secondary College
What students think
The following are text messages that were sent by students during
the summit.
“Remember, think before you post. Once it’s out there, it’s no
longer your property; would you like you parents to see pics
from last nights party?”
“We need to be aware of the way people write messages
because we don’t know how the other friend could take it.
We need to use our language and be more polite.”
“It’s all good and well to say all the stuff we are saying, but
how is what we are doing going to make a difference? What
steps are in place with the government and how could the
internet change?”
“I was so touched at how many people get bullied each day.
It’s so sad.”
“People are too open about displaying their private details on
their Facebook or MySpace page. This opens up even more
problems concerning behaving responsibly online.”
“We’re going to hold parent info nights to show them how
the internet works – that it can be safe if used the right way.”
The Formation Of Our
National Identity
Children go on a journey
of key historical events
between the landing Terra Australis
of the First Fleet to
the formation of
Oi! Oi! Oi!
Federation (1787–1901). Drama Workshop For Years 3–6
Events include the
Eureka Stockade, early
explorers, bushrangers and
forming our national identity.
This fast paced drama uses
props and costumes to give
children a good overview of
this period. All workshops
meet the VELS for
drama.Workshops cater
for up to 30 students
per session and run
for 1 hour at your
school. Available all
year, every year.
www.thedramatoolbox.com.au Phone: (03) 9870 1060
Mathematics Specialist Teacher
Victorian Office – 2010
The Australian Bureau of Statistics
is seeking a Mathematics teacher
for 2010. The successful applicant
will be required to develop
resources aimed at increasing the
statistical literacy and capability of
teachers and students.
For further information, go to www.abs.gov.au/careers
or contact Christine Sergi on 9615 7695 or 0419 876 921