Do Teacher Workshops as a Professional Development Activity Provide the Adequate Skills, Knowledge and Confidence to Deliver the GPS Cows NSW Stage 4 Technology Mandatory Module?

Abstract

The GPS Cows Module is a co-developed, Australian resource that aims to increase the knowledge and skills of high school students in emerging agricultural technologies. It aligns with many outcomes in the New South Wales (NSW) Stage 4 Technology Mandatory Syllabus, a compulsory subject for Stage 4 students (Years 7–8), that engages students in production and design activities for agriculture, food and other technologies. GPS Cows is a complete resource that teachers can apply into their teaching program. To facilitate the knowledge, skills and confidence required to implement the module, a one-day workshop was offered to NSW teachers in 2018 and 2019. To evaluate the workshop, participants completed a survey containing open- and closed-ended questions. Additionally, classroom clickers were used throughout the workshop to gauge the development of skills, knowledge and confidence over time. Overall, the workshop was well received, with over 98% of respondents enjoying the workshop and 97% indicating that the workshop was a good use of time. Positive aspects included the activities and engagement with data analytics, the resources provided, and the clear link between agricultural technologies and the real world. Identified improvements included the time allotted for workshop activities and minor changes to the resource. In conclusion, the professional development workshops enabled teachers to successfully implement GPS Cows in their teaching program.