Independent sector

The AISSA has taken a keen interest in the progress of The Le@rning Federation initiative since inception. We continue to be committed to making all the resources available to member schools as well as providing support and training to enable schools to implement them in innovative and pedagogically sound ways.

AISSA commenced trials of the learning objects in selected schools during 2004. These considered both the delivery mechanisms available at the time (BELTS and CD distribution) as well as the use of the objects across a range of year levels. Since those trials, AISSA has continued to investigate online delivery models with the long-term view of providing continued access to the latest versions of all objects and assets. Consideration is currently being given to the customisation of a third-party solution that would provide centralised delivery of the objects as well as online collaboration and planning spaces for teachers.

Awareness and use in many member schools has been further strengthened this year through their involvement in the AGQTP projects offered through AISSA in conjunction with a number of professional bodies. Both the Innovative Use of ICTs in Science and Innovative Pedagogies projects included the use of TLF resources in their programs and emphasised the professional development of teachers, sound pedagogy, planning for innovation and improved learning outcomes. The use of TLF resources in these schools has been enhanced significantly through these projects and has shown the learning objects to be valuable tools of engagement in the classroom. The Innovative Use of ICTs in Science project was supported by a parallel series of sessions presented by SASTA that focused further on online learning with a special emphasis on TLF resources. This total project was organised in three school-cluster region-based groups, which has proved especially beneficial in fostering collaboration and the sharing of resources.