Hey all,
The concept of ICT clustering is now reaching educational insutitutions. It is interesting to note that the regions that capatalize on clustering their ICT industry are also developing education programs which facilitate the growth and development of such clusters. The New Zealand Ministry of Education is offering programs which specifically focus on developing ICT clusters within the area.
“The ICT Professional Development fund is provided to clusters of schools so that their teachers make better use of ICT resources for teaching and learning in the classroom. Applications are currently closed. Information regarding the next round of applications will be posted in April/May 2008 for selection in July.
Learning outcomes from the program: - Increased understanding by teachers, principals, students and school communities of the educational benefits of ICT- Increased capability of teachers and principals to use ICT for their own professional learning- Increased capability of teachers and principals to use ICT to facilitate improvements in students’ learning and achievement- Strengthened professional learning communities and increased collaboration within and across schools;- A developing rich resource of expertise, experience and materials in effective ICT use at a local and national level.” http://www.minedu.govt.nz/index.cfm?layout=document&documentid=7383&data=l
We can see here how collaboration amongst businesses, organizations, government, and educational institutions are fueling the growth and innovation of the New Zealand ICT cluster. By constantly looking towards the future and the “next big thing”, the ICT cluster in New Zealand is among the best worldwide, and due to implimentations such as this, it should continue to grow and maintain their position amongst the ICT cluster elite.
Till next time….
George Sisovitis
