Education leader at skills centre

Baw Baw Skills Centre hosted collaborative learning and interactive videoconferencing leader Elaine Shuck on Friday.

Ms Shuck, with a background in technology, curriculum and integration, is the director of education, United States public sector for Polycom.

Ms Shuck, who is in Australia for a conference, delivered presentations on advanced videoconferencing, distance learning and collaboration for competitive advantage during her visit.

Rod Dunlop of Baw Baw Skills Centre said the centre wanted to have state of the art technology, with Ms Shuck’s visit an opportunity to learn best practice.

“Elaine has been here talking about best practice and global trends,” he said.

“It’s about using technology to maximum effect.

“We want to be state of the art in technology but also use it well and (understand) how to best engage with the kids.

“Anyone can stand in front of a classroom and talk, we want to be interactive, engaging and challenging.

“Machines like this (hydro energy trainer), kids in Korumburra and Leongatha will be able to use it.”

Some trends noted by Ms Shuck included videoconferencing becoming a commodity product, the importance of stimulating student interest and involvement and the relevance of smartphones.

For 16 years Ms Shuck has brought stimulating and engaging learning opportunities to K-20 classrooms.

An expert in her field, Ms Shuck’s work ranges from hands-on demonstrations to educators, to reaching out to Polycom’s corporate partners, to facilitating hybrid solutions that enhance education and training.

Her work has garnered major awards from the International Society for Technology in Education and the United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA).

Ms Shuck works with a host of educational groups and is currently president-elect for USDLA, an authority on social and connective media, collaborative learning and best practices in distance learning.