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<p class=3DMsoNormal><font size=3D2 color=3Dnavy face=3DArial><span style=3D=
'font-size:
10.0pt;font-family:Arial;color:navy'>Dear colleagues</span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal><font size=3D2 color=3Dnavy face=3DArial><span style=3D=
'font-size:
10.0pt;font-family:Arial;color:navy'> </span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal><font size=3D2 color=3Dnavy face=3DArial><span style=3D=
'font-size:
10.0pt;font-family:Arial;color:navy'>Thanks to Charmaine, Stephen and Robert
for your considered responses. Here are just a couple of random thoughts!</s=
pan></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal><font size=3D2 color=3Dnavy face=3DArial><span style=3D=
'font-size:
10.0pt;font-family:Arial;color:navy'> </span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:18.0pt;text-indent:-18.0pt'><font=
size=3D1
color=3Dblack face=3DSymbol><span style=3D'font-size:8.0pt;font-family:Symbo=
l;
color:windowtext'>·<font size=3D1 face=3D"Times New Roman"><span
style=3D'font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> &=
nbsp;
</span></font></span></font><font size=3D2 color=3Dnavy face=3DArial><span
style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial;color:navy'>Regarding the matter=
of
curriculum design, what is included in pre-service courses? For those of us=
at
the more ‘senior’ end of the teaching scale, maybe we need some
refresher professional learning on this matter. Maybe VITTA/</span></font><f=
ont
size=3D2 color=3Dnavy face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-fam=
ily:Arial;
color:navy'>ICTEV</span></font><font size=3D2 color=3Dnavy face=3DArial><sp=
an
style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial;color:navy'>/VCAA/DoE could run=
some
ongoing PD programs on course design? VCAA is currently undergoing a project
focusing on course design to support VELS. Focus groups of teachers are bein=
g
invited to put forward their suggestions for support, and to respond to some
VCAA proposals. <br>
<br>
As another small gesture to the process of course design, you will note in t=
he
VCAA CD <i><span style=3D'font-style:italic'>Implementing VCE IT</span></i>,=
a
couple of different models of course design were briefly described and then
partially illustrated through the development of 6-8 week programs. I
would also strongly urge that you read material from Jay McTighe and Grant W=
iggins
(Understanding by Design). <br>
<br>
</span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:18.0pt;text-indent:-18.0pt'><font=
size=3D1
color=3Dblack face=3DSymbol><span style=3D'font-size:8.0pt;font-family:Symbo=
l;
color:windowtext'>·<font size=3D1 face=3D"Times New Roman"><span
style=3D'font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> &=
nbsp;
</span></font></span></font><font size=3D2 color=3Dnavy face=3DArial><span
style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial;color:navy'>I would really welco=
me
further comments about what you need to effectively implement VELS and how y=
ou
would like to receive assistance. Armed with your comments I will endeavour=
to
act on your behalf.</span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal><font size=3D2 color=3Dnavy face=3DArial><span style=3D=
'font-size:
10.0pt;font-family:Arial;color:navy'> </span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal><font size=3D2 color=3Dnavy face=3DArial><span style=3D=
'font-size:
10.0pt;font-family:Arial;color:navy'>Regards</span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal><font size=3D2 color=3Dnavy face=3DArial><span style=3D=
'font-size:
10.0pt;font-family:Arial;color:navy'>Paula</span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal><font size=3D2 color=3Dnavy face=3DArial><span style=3D=
'font-size:
10.0pt;font-family:Arial;color:navy'> </span></font></p>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoAutoSig><font size=3D3 color=3Dblack face=3D"Times New Roman">=
<span
style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'>Paula Christophersen</span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoAutoSig><font size=3D3 color=3Dblack face=3D"Times New Roman">=
<span
style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'>ICT </span></font>Curriculum Manager</p>
<p class=3DMsoAutoSig><font size=3D3 color=3Dblack face=3D"Times New Roman">=
<span
style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'>Victorian </span></font>Curriculum and Assessment=
</p>
<p class=3DMsoAutoSig><font size=3D3 color=3Dblack face=3D"Times New Roman">=
<span
style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'>Authority</span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoAutoSig><font size=3D3 color=3Dblack face=3D"Times New Roman">=
<span
style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'>41 St Andrews Place</span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoAutoSig><font size=3D3 color=3Dblack face=3D"Times New Roman">=
<span
style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'>EAST MELBOURNE 3002</span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoAutoSig><font size=3D3 color=3Dblack face=3D"Times New Roman">=
<span
style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'>Phone: 03 9651 4378</span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoAutoSig><font size=3D3 color=3Dblack face=3D"Times New Roman">=
<span
style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'>Fax: 03 9651 4324</span></font></p>
</div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal><font size=3D2 color=3Dnavy face=3DArial><span style=3D=
'font-size:
10.0pt;font-family:Arial;color:navy'> </span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3DTahoma><span lang=3DEN-US style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Tahom=
a;
color:windowtext'>-----Original Message-----<br>
<b><span style=3D'font-weight:bold'>From:</span></b>
itapps-bounces@edulists.com.au [mailto:itapps-bounces@edulists.com.au] <b><s=
pan
style=3D'font-weight:bold'>On Behalf Of </span></b>Charmaine Taylor<br>
<b><span style=3D'font-weight:bold'>Sent:</span></b> Tuesday, 19 June 2007 1=
1:38
PM<br>
<b><span style=3D'font-weight:bold'>To:</span></b> Year 12 IT Applications
Teachers' Mailing List<br>
<b><span style=3D'font-weight:bold'>Subject:</span></b> Re: [Year 12 IT Apps=
]
VELS and progression points</span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'> </span></fon=
t></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'>Hi Stephen,<br>
My Browser stated that "Netscape thinks this message is junk mail"=
!<br>
So I was surprised to open it and find your considered thoughts. I wonder if
your comments just reflect the discomfort all of us feel when something new
comes along. I agree that VCAA's change management strategies are pretty awf=
ul
but we really should blame the DoE for not providing enough funds to PD
teachers.<br>
<br>
My college has just completed the reporting process and my observation is th=
at:<br>
a. all our teachers now know what VELS is (they've been putting it off)<br>
b. all our teachers now recognise that we must teach process, especially
thinking and communicating<br>
c. all our teachers now recognise that we must teach interpersonal skills ie
emotional intelligence, and personal learning<br>
We probably have not assessed the VELS well, as we are still learning about=
it
but I bet that by the end of the year our next reports will more accurately
reflect students' levels as we will incorporate more of the VELS into our
teaching for semester two.<br>
<br>
On the progression points, some of my colleagues and I found them to be
unhelpful in particular subjects so we ignored them and used the Standards.=
We
will develop our own progression points that suit our curriculum so I am
pleased Paula recommended that. It's always nice to know that VCAA agress wi=
th
us.<br>
<br>
Hope you're all having as much fun with VELS as we are,<br>
<br>
Charmaine Taylor<br>
Sunbury Downs College<br>
<br>
<br>
<br>
<br>
Stephen Digby wrote:<br>
<br>
</span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dblu=
e
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial;color:blue'>T=
he
Situation</span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'> </span></fon=
t></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dblu=
e
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial;color:blue'>-
Curriculum standards MUST determine the curriculum content if they are to ha=
ve
any meaning. VELs DOES this but with complex multilayered repetition
(level summaries, level descriptions in detail, unit descriptions, progressi=
on
points with enormous repetition) - very reminiscent of the same unhelpful
structure in the VCE curriculum documentation.</span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'> </span></fon=
t></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dblu=
e
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial;color:blue'>-
Curriculum standards do not have to have any bearing on timing (what aged ch=
ild
gets what content). VELs DOES chose to determine timing by indicating
that levels are "expected" to be reached by a certain school year
(access to which is controlled by parents who nearly rarely interested=
in
educational readiness, but rather age specific relationships)</span></font><=
/p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'> </span></fon=
t></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dblu=
e
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial;color:blue'>-
Curriculum standards do not have to have any bearing on content sequence (wh=
at
comes first) or grouping (what content will we put in a
course). Indeed VELs has been deliberately structured as a
multi-DIMENSIONAL matrix which provides no guidance on these issues. <=
/span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dblu=
e
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial;color:blue'>T=
he
consequence of this is likely to be that it is ignored when it comes to
curriculum design (as were the various versions of
"Frameworks"). </span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dblu=
e
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial;color:blue'>I=
t will
then only be relevant at reporting time when teachers will construct various
artificial mechanisms to attribute performance in the real curriculum with
performance against the VELs standards (e.g. AIM Online is an excellent tool=
to
do this in a limited range of areas and levels. Teachers have a
growing number of "VELs" tests. Commercial publishers
will soon be producing in this area).</span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dblu=
e
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial;color:blue'>I=
n many
schools (some very prominent), a second set of "real" (or
"old") assessment is remaining, or being redeveloped alongside the
new assessment - further reducing the influence of VELs.</span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dblu=
e
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial;color:blue'>T=
he sad
thing will be that something that set out to influence curriculum will end u=
p
merely influencing tokenistic assessment. </span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'> </span></fon=
t></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dblu=
e
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial;color:blue'>T=
he crux
of the problem is the failed strategy, exemplified in the excerpt from
Paula's email below......</span></font></p>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'> </span></fon=
t></p>
</div>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dblu=
e
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial;color:blue'>&=
quot;</span></font><font
size=3D2 face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial'>Sch=
ools are
encouraged to develop their <b><span style=3D'font-weight:bold'>own</span></=
b> examples
of student progress for each progression point, to match their courses of
study. The standards are the benchmarks, however, schools have the flexibili=
ty
to determine how students will progress from one level to another. It is
therefore important that schools determine the specific evidence or
characteristics that must be demonstrated in student work at each progressio=
n
point and at each level."</span></font></p>
</div>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'> </span></fon=
t></p>
</div>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dblu=
e
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial;color:blue'>H=
ow many
times do we have to repeat the mistake of expecting that all teachers are
capable of high quality curriculum development - even IF they had the time o=
r
the energy ! "School based curriculum development"=
;
was an unmitigated disaster in the 70's that we are just recovering from !</=
span></font></p>
</div>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'> </span></fon=
t></p>
</div>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dblu=
e
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial;color:blue'>T=
o date,
all that has been offered is a few snippets or "exemplars" and the
expectation that teachers will fill in the enormous blanks themselves.
ANYONE can create isolated one-dimensional views of paradise. Try
actually creating something that fits together over 7-10 as a coherent progr=
am
- in say one subject, or 2 dimensions, or the lot ! It is a totally
different ball game !!!</span></font></p>
</div>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'> </span></fon=
t></p>
</div>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dblu=
e
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial;color:blue'>I=
have
always agreed with Charles Lovitt who maintains that a completely incoherent
collection of excellent learning activities will deliver better learning
outcomes than the current focus on ticking all the boxes.</span></font></p>
</div>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'> </span></fon=
t></p>
</div>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dblu=
e
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial;color:blue'>T=
o
actually make a difference, someone (why not DET & VCAA in partnership w=
ith
a credible commercial publisher ?) has to develop at least one fully
documented complete course of study with accompanying curriculum and assessm=
ent
materials that EMBODIES THE NEW IDEA. </span></font></p>
</div>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'> </span></fon=
t></p>
</div>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dblu=
e
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial;color:blue'>J=
ust
printing our reports now.......</span></font></p>
</div>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'> </span></fon=
t></p>
</div>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3DTahoma><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Tahoma'>=3D=3D=3D=
=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=
=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D<br>
Stephen Digby, Learning Technology Manager<br>
mailto: <a href=3D"mailto:admin@cheltsec.vic.edu.au">admin@cheltsec.vic=
.edu.au</a>
<br>
Cheltenham Secondary College <a href=3D"http://www.cheltsec.vic.edu.au/">www=
.cheltsec.vic.edu.au</a><br>
Ph: 613 955 55 955 Fx: 9555 8617 Mb: 0431-701-028<br>
=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=
=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=
=3D=3D<br>
Farnsdick's Corollary: After things have gone from bad to worse, the cycle w=
ill
repeat itself. </span></font></p>
</div>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'> </span></fon=
t></p>
</div>
<div class=3DMsoNormal align=3Dcenter style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt;text-align=
:center'><font
size=3D3 color=3Dblack face=3D"Times New Roman"><span lang=3DEN-US style=3D'=
font-size:
12.0pt'>
<hr size=3D2 width=3D"100%" align=3Dcenter>
</span></font></div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-right:0cm;margin-bottom:12.0pt;margin-l=
eft:
36.0pt'><b><font size=3D2 color=3Dblack face=3DTahoma><span lang=3DEN-US
style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Tahoma;font-weight:bold'>From:</span><=
/font></b><font
size=3D2 face=3DTahoma><span lang=3DEN-US style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-fam=
ily:Tahoma'>
<a href=3D"mailto:itapps-bounces@edulists.com.au">itapps-bounces@edulists.co=
m.au</a>
[<a href=3D"mailto:itapps-bounces@edulists.com.au">mailto:itapps-bounces@edu=
lists.com.au</a>]
<b><span style=3D'font-weight:bold'>On Behalf Of </span></b>Christophersen,=
Paula
P<br>
<b><span style=3D'font-weight:bold'>Sent:</span></b> Monday, 18 June 2007 6:=
16 PM<br>
<b><span style=3D'font-weight:bold'>To:</span></b> Year 12 IT Applications
Teachers' Mailing List<br>
<b><span style=3D'font-weight:bold'>Subject:</span></b> RE: [Year 12 IT Apps=
]
VELS and progression points</span></font></p>
<div id=3DidOWAReplyText86726>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial'>Hi Robert</s=
pan></font></p>
</div>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'> </span></fon=
t></p>
</div>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial'>VCAA has not=
been a
silent bystander in this debate. We are in regular discussion with the DoE o=
ver
the relationship between curriculum, assessment and reporting. I will, howev=
er,
convey the opinions raised in this current discussion to the relevant VCAA
personnel, who in turn can air these views in their meetings with DoE.</span=
></font></p>
</div>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'> </span></fon=
t></p>
</div>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial'>Regards</spa=
n></font></p>
</div>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial'>Paula</span>=
</font></p>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'> </span></fon=
t></p>
<div class=3DMsoNormal align=3Dcenter style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt;text-align=
:center'><font
size=3D3 color=3Dblack face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.=
0pt'>
<hr size=3D2 width=3D"100%" align=3Dcenter>
</span></font></div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-right:0cm;margin-bottom:12.0pt;margin-l=
eft:
36.0pt'><b><font size=3D2 color=3Dblack face=3DTahoma><span style=3D'font-si=
ze:10.0pt;
font-family:Tahoma;font-weight:bold'>From:</span></font></b><font size=3D2
face=3DTahoma><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Tahoma'> <a
href=3D"mailto:itapps-bounces@edulists.com.au">itapps-bounces@edulists.com.a=
u</a>
on behalf of Timmer-Arends<br>
<b><span style=3D'font-weight:bold'>Sent:</span></b> Mon 18/06/2007 6:03 PM<=
br>
<b><span style=3D'font-weight:bold'>To:</span></b> Year 12 IT Applications
Teachers' Mailing List<br>
<b><span style=3D'font-weight:bold'>Subject:</span></b> Re: [Year 12 IT Apps=
]
VELS and progression points</span></font></p>
</div>
<div>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial'>Hello Paula<=
/span></font></p>
</div>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'> </span></fon=
t></p>
</div>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial'>As you say '=
The
VELS clearly encourages schools to determine the most appropriate ways of
delivering the standards', however its intent is being distorted, at least a=
t
secondary (esp I suspect upper secondary) by the reporting process. I know V=
CAA
doesn't have anthing to do with this but judging by the tone of the docs fro=
m
the people that do, they don't seem to want to know (in fact they appear to
argue that it is our programs that are distorting the reports!). It seems to=
me
that if VCAA wants to see certain educational principles upheld then it ough=
t
to get involved in the debate.</span></font></p>
</div>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'> </span></fon=
t></p>
</div>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial'>Regards</spa=
n></font></p>
</div>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial'>Robert T-A</=
span></font></p>
</div>
<blockquote style=3D'border:none;border-left:solid black 1.5pt;padding:0cm 0=
cm 0cm 4.0pt;
margin-left:3.75pt;margin-top:5.0pt;margin-right:0cm;margin-bottom:5.0pt'>
<div style=3D'font-stretch: normal;font-size-adjust: none'>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial'>----- Origin=
al
Message ----- </span></font></p>
</div>
<div style=3D'-moz-background-clip: initial;-moz-background-inline-policy: i=
nitial;
-moz-background-origin: initial;font-stretch: normal;font-size-adjust: none;
background-attachment:scroll;background-position-x:0%;background-position-y:
50%'>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt;background:#E4E4E4'><b><fon=
t
size=3D2 color=3Dblack face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-fam=
ily:Arial;
font-weight:bold'>From:</span></font></b><font size=3D2 face=3DArial><span
style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial'> <a
href=3D"mailto:christophersen.paula.p@edumail.vic.gov.au"
title=3D"christophersen.paula.p@edumail.vic.gov.au">Christophersen, Paula P<=
/a> </span></font></p>
</div>
<div style=3D'font-stretch: normal;font-size-adjust: none'>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><b><font size=3D2 color=3D=
black
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial;font-weight:b=
old'>To:</span></font></b><font
size=3D2 face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial'> <a
href=3D"mailto:itapps@edulists.com.au" title=3D"itapps@edulists.com.au">Year=
12 IT
Applications Teachers' Mailing List</a> ; <a
href=3D"mailto:yr7-10it@edulists.com.au" title=3D"yr7-10it@edulists.com.au">=
Year 7
- 10 Information Technology Teachers' Mailing List</a> </span></font></p>
</div>
<div style=3D'font-stretch: normal;font-size-adjust: none'>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><b><font size=3D2 color=3D=
black
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial;font-weight:b=
old'>Sent:</span></font></b><font
size=3D2 face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial'> Mo=
nday,
June 18, 2007 3:51 PM</span></font></p>
</div>
<div style=3D'font-stretch: normal;font-size-adjust: none'>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><b><font size=3D2 color=3D=
black
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial;font-weight:b=
old'>Subject:</span></font></b><font
size=3D2 face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial'> [Y=
ear 12 IT
Apps] VELS and progression points</span></font></p>
</div>
<div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'> </span></fon=
t></p>
</div>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial'>Dear colleag=
ues</span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'> </span></fon=
t></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial'>Apologies fo=
r
crossing into the IT apps territory, but this has been the venue for some VE=
LS
discussion. I’m a little late in joining in on this discussion, but I
would like to clarify some points that have been made.</span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'> </span></fon=
t></p>
<p style=3D'margin-right:0cm;margin-bottom:0cm;margin-left:36.0pt;margin-bot=
tom:
.0001pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dblack face=3DArial><span lang=3DEN-US style=
=3D'font-size:
10.0pt;font-family:Arial'>Progression points represent markers of student
progress at several points towards the standards. VCAA has published example=
s
that accompany each progression point and the purpose of these examples is t=
o:</span></font></p>
<p style=3D'margin-right:0cm;margin-bottom:0cm;margin-left:54.0pt;margin-bot=
tom:
.0001pt;text-indent:-18.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dblack face=3DSymbol><spa=
n
lang=3DEN-US style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Symbol'>·</span></=
font><font
size=3D1><span style=3D'font-stretch: normal;font-size-adjust: none'><span
lang=3DEN-US style=3D'font-size:7.0pt'> &=
nbsp;
</span></span></font><font size=3D2 face=3DArial><span lang=3DEN-US style=3D=
'font-size:
10.0pt;font-family:Arial'>Support teachers to determine if a student is
achieving as expected at a particular time of schooling</span></font></p>
<p style=3D'margin-right:0cm;margin-bottom:0cm;margin-left:54.0pt;margin-bot=
tom:
.0001pt;text-indent:-18.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dblack face=3DSymbol><spa=
n
lang=3DEN-US style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Symbol'>·</span></=
font><font
size=3D1><span style=3D'font-stretch: normal;font-size-adjust: none'><span
lang=3DEN-US style=3D'font-size:7.0pt'> &=
nbsp;
</span></span></font><font size=3D2 face=3DArial><span lang=3DEN-US style=3D=
'font-size:
10.0pt;font-family:Arial'>Assist teachers to make on-balance judgments about
progress towards the standards for the purpose of reporting to parents.</spa=
n></font></p>
<p style=3D'margin-right:0cm;margin-bottom:0cm;margin-left:36.0pt;margin-bot=
tom:
.0001pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dblack face=3D"Times New Roman"><span
style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'> </span></font></p>
<p style=3D'margin-right:0cm;margin-bottom:0cm;margin-left:36.0pt;margin-bot=
tom:
.0001pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dblack face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:=
10.0pt;
font-family:Arial'>The examples at each progression point are <i><span
style=3D'font-style:italic'>illustrative</span></i> of student progress rath=
er
than prescriptive, and they have <b><span style=3D'font-weight:bold'>not</sp=
an></b>
been written for every element of a standard. This is deliberate because it
means they cannot be used as a syllabus. The VELS clearly encourages schools=
to
determine the most appropriate ways of delivering the standards. The VCAA
examples for each progression point should not determine how schools design
their curriculum. As from the discussion, some schools run intense
semester-based programs; others run totally integrated programs over a 2-yea=
r
period to coincide with a VELS level; and the options between are plenty.</s=
pan></font></p>
<p style=3D'margin-right:0cm;margin-bottom:0cm;margin-left:36.0pt;margin-bot=
tom:
.0001pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dblack face=3D"Times New Roman"><span
style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'> </span></font></p>
<p style=3D'margin-right:0cm;margin-bottom:0cm;margin-left:36.0pt;margin-bot=
tom:
.0001pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dblack face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:=
10.0pt;
font-family:Arial'>Schools are encouraged to develop their <b><span
style=3D'font-weight:bold'>own</span></b> examples of student progress for e=
ach
progression point, to match their courses of study. The standards are the
benchmarks, however, schools have the flexibility to determine how students
will progress from one level to another. It is therefore important that scho=
ols
determine the specific evidence or characteristics that must be demonstrated=
in
student work at each progression point and at each level.</span></font></p>
<p style=3D'margin-right:0cm;margin-bottom:0cm;margin-left:36.0pt;margin-bot=
tom:
.0001pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dblack face=3D"Times New Roman"><span
style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'> </span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial'>I would stro=
ngly
urge schools to use the VCAA progression point examples as a starting point=
for
discussion – on what basis is student progress being measured?
Breadth/depth of coverage? Level of precision? Level of cognition? Etc It is
important that your school identifies the evidence or characteristics expect=
ed
to be seen in student work during a reporting period so that you can make an
on-balance judgment as to whether the student is progressing as expected.
Documenting this evidence in examples of progress is an effective way of
establishing the stepping stones between each standard.</span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'> </span></fon=
t></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial'>For further=
reading
visit <a href=3D"http://vels.vcaa.vic.edu.au/whatsnew.html#1">http://vels.vc=
aa.vic.edu.au/whatsnew.html#1</a>
and download the PowerPoint file.</span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'> </span></fon=
t></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial'>VCAA is not
responsible for the reporting side of things, so if you have any queries, I
suggest you contact Denise Jacobsson (<a
href=3D"mailto:jacobsson.denise.k@edumail.vic.gov.au">jacobsson.denise.k@edu=
mail.vic.gov.au</a>)
or Maurie Sheehan (<a href=3D"mailto:sheehan.maurice.j@edumail.vic.gov.au">s=
heehan.maurice.j@edumail.vic.gov.au</a>)
for expert answers.</span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'> </span></fon=
t></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial'>Regards</spa=
n></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D2 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3DArial><span style=3D'font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Arial'>Paula</span>=
</font></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'> </span></fon=
t></p>
<p class=3DMsoAutoSig style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbl=
ack
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'>Paula Christophers=
en</span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoAutoSig style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbl=
ack
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'>ICT Curriculum Man=
ager</span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoAutoSig style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbl=
ack
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'>Victorian Curricul=
um and
Assessment</span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoAutoSig style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbl=
ack
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'>Authority</span></=
font></p>
<p class=3DMsoAutoSig style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbl=
ack
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'>41 St Andrews Plac=
e</span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoAutoSig style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbl=
ack
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'>EAST MELBOURNE 300=
2</span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoAutoSig style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbl=
ack
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'>Phone: 03 9651 437=
8</span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoAutoSig style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbl=
ack
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'>Fax: 03 9651 4324<=
/span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'> </span></fon=
t></p>
<p style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><b><font size=3D3 color=3Dblack face=3D"Time=
s New Roman"><span
style=3D'font-size:12.0pt;font-weight:bold'>Important - </span></font></b>Th=
is
email and any attachments may be confidential. If received in error, please
contact us and delete all copies. Before opening or using attachments check
them for viruses and defects. Regardless of any loss, damage or consequence,
whether caused by the negligence of the sender or not, resulting directly or
indirectly from the use of any attached files our liability is limited to
resupplying any affected attachments. Any representations or opinions expres=
sed
are those of the individual sender, and not necessarily those of the Departm=
ent
of Education.</p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'>__________________=
_____________________________
<br>
<a href=3D"">http://www.edulists.com.au </a>- FAQ, resources, subscribe,
unsubscribe <br>
IT Applications Mailing List kindly supported by <br>
<a href=3D"">http://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au </a>- Victorian Curriculum and Asses=
sment
Authority and <br>
<a href=3D"">http://www.vitta.org.au </a>- VITTA Victorian Information Techn=
ology
Teachers Association Inc </span></font></p>
</blockquote>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'>__________________=
_____________________________
<br>
<a href=3D"http://www.edulists.com.au/">http://www.edulists.com.au </a>- FAQ=
,
resources, subscribe, unsubscribe <br>
IT Applications Mailing List kindly supported by <br>
<a href=3D"http://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/">http://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au </a>-
Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority and <br>
<a href=3D"http://www.vitta.org.au/">http://www.vitta.org.au </a>- VITTA
Victorian Information Technology Teachers Association Inc </span></font></p>
</div>
<p style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><b><font size=3D3 color=3Dblack face=3D"Time=
s New Roman"><span
style=3D'font-size:12.0pt;font-weight:bold'>Important - </span></font></b>Th=
is
email and any attachments may be confidential. If received in error, please
contact us and delete all copies. Before opening or using attachments check
them for viruses and defects. Regardless of any loss, damage or consequence,
whether caused by the negligence of the sender or not, resulting directly or
indirectly from the use of any attached files our liability is limited to
resupplying any affected attachments. Any representations or opinions expres=
sed
are those of the individual sender, and not necessarily those of the Departm=
ent
of Education.</p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'>__________________=
_____________________________
<br>
<a href=3D"http://www.edulists.com.au">http://www.edulists.com.au </a>- FAQ,
resources, subscribe, unsubscribe <br>
IT Applications Mailing List kindly supported by <br>
<a href=3D"http://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au">http://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au </a>- Vict=
orian
Curriculum and Assessment Authority and <br>
<a href=3D"http://www.vitta.org.au">http://www.vitta.org.au </a>- VITTA Vict=
orian
Information Technology Teachers Association Inc</span></font></p>
<p class=3DMsoNormal style=3D'margin-left:36.0pt'><font size=3D3 color=3Dbla=
ck
face=3D"Times New Roman"><span style=3D'font-size:12.0pt'>__________________=
_____________________________
<br>
<a href=3D"http://www.edulists.com.au">http://www.edulists.com.au </a>- FAQ,
resources, subscribe, unsubscribe <br>
IT Applications Mailing List kindly supported by <br>
<a href=3D"http://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au">http://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au </a>- Vict=
orian
Curriculum and Assessment Authority and <br>
<a href=3D"http://www.vitta.org.au">http://www.vitta.org.au </a>- VITTA Vict=
orian
Information Technology Teachers Association Inc</span></font></p>
</div>
<p></p><p><b>Important - </b>This email and any attachments may be confident=
ial. If received in error, please contact us and delete all copies. Before o=
pening or using attachments check them for viruses and defects. Regardless o=
f any loss, damage or consequence, whether caused by the negligence of the s=
ender or not, resulting directly or indirectly from the use of any attached=
files our liability is limited to resupplying any affected attachments. Any=
representations or opinions expressed are those of the individual sender, a=
nd not necessarily those of the Department of Education.</p></body>
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