Gifted & Talented

Gifted & Talented Accelerated Computing/Technology Program Background Gymea Technology High School is formally recognised as a Centre of Excellence in Technology Education. The school attracts a significant number of students who display a high level of interest and expertise in technology and its applications. To better cater for the needs of these students, planning commenced in 2001 for the introduction of a Gifted and Talented Technology program. Extensive planning and preparation continued throughout 2002 in preparation for the first cohort in 2003. The program allows students to complete the Year 7&8 computing program in Year 7 and commence School Certificate studies in Year 8. Students are then able to commence HSC studies in Information Processes and Technology (IPT) in Year 10. Students participate in a comprehensive selection process to gain entry into the program. All staff selected to teach the class possess highly developed technology skills and a willingness to apply them to their curriculum areas. Staff are encouraged to challenge students with a range of cross-curricular rich tasks. The program is supported by ongoing professional development focusing on the education of Gifted and Talented students and ensuring technology skills remain up to date in a rapidly changing world. 2007 saw our first cohort of accelerated students complete their IPT HSC exam in Year 11 with outstanding success. G & T - Program Evaluation Findings To evaluate the program extensive consultation with parents, students and staff via formal surveys and informal discussion groups was carried out. Parents of students were unqualified in their support of the program, commenting on the advantages of a wide range of learning experiences and the company of peers who valued opportunities to learn and gain new skills. Students involved in this class also indicated that they had experienced interesting, new and different activities while their teachers reported that many in this group demonstrated an improved pride and responsibility in their learning compared with others of the same age. All stakeholders perceive one of the major strengths of the program is the flexibility it provides to students, enabling them to leave the program and explore other subject options as their needs and interests change. G & T - Future Directions The school is committed to continuing the program. An evaluation of the Year 7&8 computing program will be carried out to ensure it continues to reflect the needs of the students. Further professional development will be carried out to broaden the teaching base of staff available to teach this group and to share successful teaching strategies. Extension units developed for this program will be also be evaluated with a view to incorporating them into the teaching programs for all Year 7&8 classes.