Connecting classes trial

View the full version of our Connected classes video in Windows Media player:

Broadband version [wmv 5.28 MB Duration 3:53]

Dial-up version [wmv 1.22 MB Duration 3:53]

This project was an initiative managed by the Centre for Learning Innovation and conducted in collaboration with NSW DET's Western Sydney Region.

In the trial, connected classes were defined as shared, linked classes with shared student engagement and interaction between sites. The project grew out of locally identified needs to improve student engagement and demonstrated connected learning in practice. The focus of the trial was on active student engagement rather than passive delivery of content.

Participating schools were equipped with videoconference cameras, plasma display units and an interactive whiteboard. The use of the NSW DET Wide Area Network ensured that there were no recurrent costs associated with the connections between the schools.

The trial was conducted in Semester 2, 2006 across three subject areas: Ancient History; Information Processing and Technology; and Biology. Participants were Stage 6 students and their teachers from across seven high schools: Colyton, Cranebrook, Evans, Jamison, Nepean, Plumpton and St Mary’s Senior.

Evaluation of the trial indicates that it has been a singular success for both students and teachers.