Using new technology such as robots to enhance learning and problem-solving skills in the classroom will be in the spotlight at a University of the Sunshine Coast forum on the Fraser Coast on Friday 7 October.

USC will hold a “Makerspace” mini-conference at its campus in Hervey Bay for principals and specialist teachers from primary and secondary schools across the Fraser Coast and Gympie regions.

USC Fraser Coast Lecturer in Education David Martin said the forum would focus on integrating technologies such as coding, design, circuitry, electronics and robotics into the school curriculum.

“More and more schools are setting up ‘makerspaces’, or fabrication laboratories, as special communal spaces where students can design and create objects, and find digital solutions to bring their ideas to life,” Mr Martin said.

“This allows students to gain deeper learning through computational thinking and creative problem-solving, and they gain practical skills necessary for what tomorrow’s job market will require.”

Mr Martin, who teaches Bachelor of Education courses on integrating information and communication technologies into learning, is one of the conference presenters.

“USC is ensuring that pre-service teachers are ready to enter the classrooms with a new mindset about using digital solutions in their teaching,” he said.

A second presentation by USC Lecturer in Design Dr Uwe Terton will cover computer-supported education that makes use of technology to reach different types of learners.

The forum will provide a platform for schools to share their ideas and teaching practices and will include a tour of USC Fraser Coast’s new Makerspace room.

— Clare McKay