Scorpio Technology

Computer-esque books to lure boys
Books illustrated with computer generated images are the latest attempt by a UK publishers to get boys reading. BBC News, 7 January 2009.

Australian Schools Calendar
The 2009 print version of the edna Schools Calendar is in production. Two copies of the calendar will be posted to all schools by the end of January. Additional copies can be ordered at the schools sector page.

Arts 'ignored' in national curriculum
The National Advocates for Arts Education is calling on the Federal Government to include the arts in the work of the National Curriculum Board and Early Years Learning Framework, saying that the sidelining of subjects such as art and drama deprives students of essential skills for the 21st century. ABC News, 5 January 2009.

WA mandatory reporting of child sexual abuse starts
Children in WA will be better protected with doctors, nurses, teachers, police officers and midwives now required under law to report in writing suspicions of child sexual abuse. New legislation governing the mandatory reporting of child sexual abuse will result in those who fail to report concerns to the Department for Child Protection facing a fine. WA Minister for Child Protection, 1 January 2009.

Homework is fun on an iPod touch
A pilot program in which teenagers used iPods for school work has increased attendance and enthusiasm for homework. Preliminary research found students were more willing to come to school, did more homework and used their iPods more than laptops or desktop computers. Sydney Morning Herald, 3 January 2009.

Study suggests parenting and home environment impact ability
Early gaps in ability between children from poor and rich homes is mostly due to the quality of parenting, says a US report. BBC News, 23 December 2008.

Education Union says vulnerable students need system's help
The Australian Education Union says the full results of this year's literacy and numeracy tests are a reminder of the need to pay close attention to the nation's most vulnerable students. ABC News, 20 December 2008.

$4.67million package to improve literacy and numeracy
The WA State Government has announced a $4.67million package as the first stage of a comprehensive strategy to boost literacy and numeracy standards. WA Minister for Education, 17 December 2008.

Benefits of fresh food demonstrated in schools
Primary school children in WA, SA, Tas, NSW and the ACT will soon enjoy the benefits of growing, preparing and sharing fresh food, with a demonstration school in these states and territory to be established as part of the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program. The program will help tackle the levels of childhood obesity by giving children hands-on experience in healthy eating. Minister for Health and Ageing, 16 December 2008.

Survey finds bullying in Australian schools among worst in world
A survey of schools in 36 countries shows Australian primary school students suffer bullying at a rate of almost 50 per cent above the international average. ABC News, 14 December 2008.