May update

Yes it's been far too long. A few things have been happening:

April 4 attended Innovation Masterclass in Brisbane (PPU)
5 attended Andrew Fuller talk
6 profiled Helen in Mossman
11 met with Peter Skippington
12 lunch meeting with Peter, team members, Donna-Maree, Dale and Sue
13 profiled Alan in Mossman
19 profiled Helen again

Some useful ideas in the Andrew Fuller talk, especially about creating a conducive environment, and understanding and dealing with particular types of difficult students. Fortunately somebody sent round some notes which I have a copy of.

The Mossman profiles were tremendously useful - lots of examples of good teaching practice, and led to inclusion of a new category in the frequency sheet: using analogies. Helen has some wonderful techniques for teaching new computer users, and for IT teaching generally.

The meetings with Peter Skippington were very productive. PPU is funding us again next year, over $25000 this time. We need to develop our training program, trial it in-house and deliver it to 2 TAFE institutes.

Dale's attendance at the meeting was a surprise but was very fortunate as it certainly increased his awareness of and interest in TROPIC.

Not quite so much activity in May as I have been busy with diploma of e-learning, digital images course and ETRF.

May 12 met with Alan and talked about project-centred learning.

13 met Todd and Adam from Choice - led to thinking about a potential project working with disengaged youth. This is on the basis of leading by example - I try it out, learn from mistakes and share what I learn with others. Needs further thinking, and discussion with D-M before I proceed.

17 attended forum with Victor Callan about staff capability - TROPIC program was mentioned.
Sent draft proposal to PPU - accepted.

18 visited Innisfail and heard there are many behaviour issues with TAFE-Sec students. Caught up with Peter and talked about delivering micro-skills workshop, early next term. Peter says he has done some profiles.

20 phone conversation with Douglas - has been talking with Ros about teaching strategies and preparation for Your Future Your Choice course. Still aiming for a date with RATEP.

23 reply from Bobby Harreveld to my email suggesting my MLM "product" about TROPIC be in the form of a digital story - keen on the idea.

Having a meeting this afternoon, expecting Colleen and John and maybe Douglas. Hoping to update everyone and get updates from everyone, and to discuss possibilities for the training program.