Connected Learning for Gifted and Talented Students.
The e-GATS program creates a virtual classroom through the use of Microsoft Sharepoint Server 2.0 technology hosted at Drummond Memorial Public School. This cutting edge software enables students in Years 3-8 who are attending public schools in the New England Region to link to expert mentors, work collaboratively and complete challenging online tasks and course work.
Students utilise digital technologies such as podcasts, wikis, voice threads, blogs, discussion forums and the creation of avatars to enhance their communication and schoolwork. Tasks are a set of planned learning experiences that are designed to meet the needs of the e-GATS! students. The program differs from the basic class programs with pace, complexity and teaching support considered. The mentors design weekly online tasks and discussions. Students are extended in the areas of English, Mathematics and Science and Technology.
Pedagogy and Quality Teaching underpin the program. There has been significant interest in the program since it was trialled in 2008. It is essential that the integrity of this program is maintained in terms of GATS philosophy, identification, teaching authenticity and delivery.
There are also opportunities for students to interact and 'play'. They can set up their own challenges and direct their learning towards areas of interest. In addition to this the students also have spaces and networks where they are able to post their own work, and also view and comment on work their peers have posted. Students have produced texts ranging from scientific theories and visual paradoxes to narratives.
New England