The Australian Council for Computers in Education (ACCE) is a key organisation dedicated to advancing the integration of information and communication technology (ICT) in Australian schools. As the national voice for educators in the digital learning space, ACCE plays a vital role in supporting teachers, shaping education policy, and fostering innovation in classrooms across the country.
In this article, we explore the history, mission, and significant contributions of ACCE, highlighting its ongoing efforts to enhance education through technology.
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ACCE’s History and Mission
The ACCE’s roots date back to the early 1980s. A national “Australian Computers in Education” conference first held in 1983 provided a forum for teachers to share computer-based teaching ideas. In 1985, state representatives formally established a federation and adopted the name Australian Council for Computers in Education, with a constitution and a national journal (Australian Educational Computing) to advance the field.
From its inception, ACCE’s mission has been to promote excellence in the use of learning technologies in schools across Australia. It serves as a unified voice and forum for the state and territory computer education groups, coordinating their efforts to improve teaching and learning through technology.
The Council is composed of representatives from each state/territory association (often called a Computers in Education Group) and the Australian Computer Society (ACS), ensuring a broad base of expertise. Through this national coalition, ACCE strives to encourage innovation and high standards in ICT education and to increase awareness of the importance of digital learning in the curriculum.
ACCE Supporting Digital Education in Schools
As a leading organisation for digital education, ACCE plays a pivotal role in supporting schools across the country to embrace ICT.
It works closely with its member associations to provide professional development, resources, and advocacy that help teachers effectively use ICT in the classroom. Each state and territory association under ACCE (for example, Queensland’s QSITE and New South Wales’ ICTENSW) runs local training workshops, conferences, and networking events for educators.
By linking these groups, ACCE facilitates a national exchange of best practice so that successful innovations in one region can inform others.
In addition, ACCE has worked closely with curriculum authorities such as the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) to develop and implement the Digital Technologies curriculum. This collaboration has led to the creation of teaching materials, such as online resources and explanatory videos, to support educators in teaching new digital literacy skills.
Beyond national boards, ACCE maintains links with international and industry bodies. It is formally affiliated with the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE), connecting Australia’s digital education community with global trends and research.
By providing professional learning networks and facilitating the sharing of knowledge, ACCE ensures that schools across Australia can implement ICT effectively, regardless of geographic location.
ACCE’s Key Programmes and Initiatives
ACCE has launched several programmes and initiatives that have had a lasting impact on Australian education.
Biennial ACCE Conference
The Biennial ACCE Conference is one of ACCE’s flagship events, bringing together educators, researchers, and industry experts from across the country.
This conference provides a valuable platform for teachers to share insights, strategies, and innovations in educational technology. It covers a wide range of topics, from classroom practices to future trends in digital learning, allowing attendees to stay informed and connected with peers.
Over the years, the conference has grown to be a key event in the Australian education calendar, fostering collaboration and learning across the ICT education community.
Awards and Recognition
ACCE also plays a crucial role in recognising and celebrating excellence in the field of educational technology.
Through various Awards and Recognition programmes, ACCE honours outstanding contributions by educators and leaders who have demonstrated a commitment to advancing ICT in schools. Notable awards include the ACCE Leader of the Year and Digital Technologies Teacher of the Year awards, which highlight the efforts of educators who inspire their peers and drive change in the way technology is used in teaching.
These awards help to raise the profile of digital learning and encourage a culture of innovation and excellence across Australian schools.
ACCE’s Past Projects
Beyond currently active projects, ACCE has initiated several projects over the years to advance digital education in Australia. While no longer active, they highlight ACCE’s commitment to fostering innovation and supporting educators. Some of these initiatives include:
- Australian Educational Computing Journal (AEC): ACCE published a peer-reviewed journal, Australian Educational Computing, which featured research articles, case studies, and practical examples of technology-enhanced learning. Established in the mid-1980s alongside the Council’s formation, this journal offered insights into the evolving nature of educational computing.
- Aussie SchoolHouse (ASH): Managed by ACCE, ASH provided an online platform for schools, teachers, and professional associations to publish and collaborate on educational projects. While it has been superseded by newer technologies, ASH was a pioneering initiative in its time.
- ACCE Learning Network: This weekly series of 30-minute live education broadcasts featured international panels discussing various educational topics. The sessions were recorded and made available as vodcasts, offering accessible professional development for educators.
- SiMERR (National Centre for Science, ICT and Mathematics Education in Rural and Regional Australia): ACCE collaborated with SiMERR to support teachers in rural and regional areas, promoting effective pedagogical approaches in Computing Studies and contributing resources to a national portal.
These initiatives, though concluded, demonstrate ACCE’s ongoing dedication to enhancing digital education and supporting educators across Australia.
ACCE’s Impact on Educators and Students
The direct impact of ACCE’s initiatives is most visible in the classrooms across Australia. By supporting teachers with professional development opportunities, ACCE enables educators to create engaging, technology-rich learning experiences for their students. Teachers benefit from a national network of peers who share insights, challenges, and solutions, fostering a collaborative approach to digital education.
For students, ACCE’s efforts translate into more engaging and relevant learning environments. As teachers adopt new technologies and digital tools, students gain essential skills in areas like coding, problem-solving, and digital literacy. ACCE’s work has ensured that Australian students are well-prepared to navigate and thrive in an increasingly digital world.
ACCE Members
These member organisations collaborate through ACCE to advance the integration of information and communication technology in education across Australia. By joining any one of these, you’ll benefit from the larger ACCE benefits at large.
- ICTENSW: The Information and Communication Technology Educators of New South Wales
- DLTV: Digital Learning and Teaching Victoria
- ECAWA: The Educational Computing Association of Western Australia
- TASITE: The Tasmanian Information and Technology Educators
- QSITE: The Queensland Society for Information Technology in Education
- InTEACT: The Information Technology Educators Association of the Australian Capital Territory
- ACS: The Australian Computer Society (ACS)
- EdTechSA: The Educational Technology Association of South Australia (EdTechSA)
Final Words on the ACCE
The ACCE plays a vital role in supporting educators across the country by promoting the integration of ICT in schools. Through its diverse programmes, initiatives, and collaboration with various state and national organisations, ACCE continues to shape the future of digital education in Australia.
By fostering professional development, providing valuable resources, and recognising outstanding achievements, ACCE helps ensure that educators and students are well-equipped to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
Sources:
- ACCE – https://acce.edu.au/
- Wikipedia – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_Computers_in_Education_Conference
- Deutscher Bildungs Server – https://www.bildungsserver.de/bisy.html?a=5931&spr=1
