Secondary Catalogue

Using the analogy problem of washing dirty dishes, this video explores the IPO model and pseudocode as tools to guide computational thinking. Students of lower secondary digital technologies will understand how using pseudocode can be an accessible preliminary step in the design process before attempting to write a program in their chosen syntax. Show Less

Introducing the concepts of abstraction, decomposition, algorithm design and pattern recognition, this video gets inside the ‘mind’ of a computer to understand why computational thinking this is a crucial first step to designing a successful program. Students and teachers of lower secondary digital technologies will find this an approachable foundation to computational thinking. Show Less

Even the most experienced programmers use simple visual models and techniques to plan an effective algorithmic solution. In this video, students are introduced to the IPO model and flowcharts as two such methods to abstract unnecessary information in a problem, decompose it into smaller tasks, a recognise patterns and repetition, and program a series of simple steps for a computer to follow. Show Less

This creative programme takes students on a journey inside the computer, following a keypress all the way through to it appearing on the screen. Powerful visual diagrams and animations are used throughout, in order to aid students’ understanding of the concepts that are explored. Students will learn about various input devices, processes and outputs, with a particular focus on the keyboard, word processing applications, the GPU and computer monitor. Show Less

In this animated programme, our character Sam shows students the basics of the hard working operating system. Engaging graphics are used to explain concepts clearly and visually, depicting how an operating system interacts with various other software and hardware, and why the kernel is important. Students will also learn about primary and secondary memory, device management, and how the operating system provides an interface for the user. Show Less

Jules goes on a roller coaster ride taking steps to make right with her social media followers. Her initial apologetic post is well-received, but relief is only temporary… more floodgates open and the consequences of her actions snowball. Meanwhile her friend Aaron is thinking seriously about online revenge tactics... This thought-provoking clip with expert commentary from Project Rockit is an excellent resource for middle-level secondary students. Show Less

As Jules' social media world spirals downwards, her friend Aaron prepares to enter an online hate exchange. Jules turns to Project Rockit for advice, and starts along the hard road of repairing relationships. Meanwhile Aaron rethinks his approach. Part 3 of this series, this clip carries poignant messages about the personal effects of irresponsible and unethical online behaviour, and the importance of developing resilience. Show Less

Jules has built a positive social media presence promoting good digital citizenship, online ethics and safety. So when her friend Aaron faces some social media challenges, she offers sound advice. Yet sometimes good digital citizens stumble - Jules' online popularity takes a new turn, but how will her followers respond? This engaging clip with expert commentary from Project Rockit is ideal for middle-level secondary students. Show Less

Did you know that online malicious software – or malware – can steal your personal information, like passwords and banking details, and maybe even your identity? One out of every three infringing screen content sites contains malware and users of these pirate websites are twenty-eight times more likely to be exposed to hacking, viruses and malicious activity than on legitimate content sites. The fastest growing demographic amongst online pirates in Australia is 12-13 year-olds. That’s why it’s important to provide young content consumers with information that will protect them online. This resource helps teachers and students understand the dangers that online pirate sites pose to users and their devices. To find more resources visit http://www.nothingbeatstherealthing.info/education-resources/cyber-safety Show Less

In this animated programme, our character Sam shows students the basics of networking and data transmission. Engaging graphics are used to explain concepts clearly and visually, depicting how data is transmitted via cables and fibre optics, and why switches and routers are important. Students will also learn about binary, LANs, WANs, and why protocols are used. Show Less

This creative programme takes students on a journey as Kat teaches them about data storage and communication. Powerful visual diagrams and animations are used throughout, in order to aid students’ understanding of the concepts that are explored. Students will learn about the role of binary in communicating and storing data, the standard units for file sizes, ASCII, and the differences between a variety of audio and visual file types. Show Less

Why should students value their own and others’ intellectual property? What exactly is intellectual property? This interview led programme builds an understanding of: intellectual property; exceptions to copyright; registering IP; why students should be aware of the terms and agreements of social media sites, what Creative Commons is and the different licences, why an IP holder may wish to share material; and what it means when material is in the public domain. A great resource for encouraging students to value IP. Show Less

For any modern organisation, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is fundamental to how they operate. But how do we actually define ICT’s and what is the specific role they play in business? Experts with a lifelong understanding of digital technology guide viewers through: the ICT environment, the ICT needs and solutions for organisations, monitoring and evaluating ICT’s and what the future of ICT’s might look like. The programme offers a variety of visual metaphors, which help to illuminate the inter-connected world of digital communication and how reliant we’ve become on technology. Upper secondary I.T and business audiences will find this a visually-appealing and highly-accessible programme as they seek to learn more about the world of ICT’s. Show Less

Website design and development is an exciting, highly creative industry that continues to grow at a rapid rate. This interview-led programme looks at the key considerations involved when developing a website. It looks at: internet basics; planning a website; designing and constructing a website; and website testing. Interviewed for the programme include leading website development experts Karl Ervine, IT lecturer at Victoria University, David Graves, Creative director of GWS Media and John Anderton, CEO of Butterfly Internet. Ideal for senior secondary and TAFE in the fields of information technology, graphic design and business, it provides great advice and tips on how to build a well functioning, user-friendly and attractive website. Show Less

Computer networks are at the foundation of Information and Communication Technology. A good understanding of the main elements and functions of computer networks is therefore crucial. This programme provides a comprehensive overview of: the world of networks; wireless LANs and mobile devices; key hardware and software components; wired and wireless protocols; the strengths and limitations of wired and wireless; and network security. Perfect for senior secondary and TAFE in the fields of Information Technology and business, it is also suited to viewers wanting a better understanding of computer networks. Providing up-to-date information, this programme is the ideal guide to the key systems and components of IT networks. Show Less

The mobile app revolution has greatly enhanced the user experience and changed the way we interact with technology. It is a booming industry with great opportunities for developers with an idea for an app. Once research and planning has been completed, the next stage is development. This interview based production explores some of the key aspects of development including: design, content production, coding, deploying the app and getting it noticed in the marketplace. Interviewed for the programme are leading developers, designers and directors from Tinman Games, AppsCore and Go Button. Ideal for senior secondary and TAFE, in fields including information technology, graphic design and business, it provides inspiration and insight into the exciting new world of Mobile Apps. Show Less

Incredibly large volumes of data are generated on a daily basis. Within that data hides information that can prove extremely valuable on a social, economic, political or environmental level. But to unearth the ‘gold’ the data needs to be mined. This interview led programme explains exactly what data mining is, the data collected, uses of data mining, the data processes involved and tips for successful data mining. We talk with world leaders in the field, including Doug Campbell, director of Deloitte Analytics, John Elder Chief scientist of Elder Research, and Peter O’Hanlon, director of Institute of Analytics Professionals of Australia. A programme for senior secondary and TAFE in business, IT and the social sciences, it provides great insight into the rapidly developing world of data mining. Show Less

The explosion in apps has changed the way we interact with our mobile devices and the world around us. There are great opportunities and rewards for those wishing to create an app, but where do you start? Focused on the research and planning stage, this interview based production looks at: where to get ideas for an app; essential market research; the importance of content research; and good project planning. Interviewed for the program are leading developers, designers and directors from Tinman Games, AppsCore and Go Button. Ideal for senior secondary and TAFE, in fields including information technology, graphic design and business, it provides inspiration and insight into the exciting new world of Mobile Apps. Show Less

In this programme we follow the iPod and iPad development team at Bjango Software as we examine the management and development of a complex ICT project. We follow through the stages of a project’s life cycle, from conception and planning, to building and testing, and finally implementing and evaluating the finished product. Along the way we look at the personnel, procedures, techniques, tools, and methodologies used, together with the social and ethical impacts. We see the tools of project management, such as Gantt charts, collaborative software, systems analysis and planning tools, and the all important formal documentation. An essential overview of ICT project management. Show Less

This programme is a practical introduction to the technology and techniques behind the scenes of modern multimedia. Through case studies of two interactive software developers, we describe the hardware and software used for multimedia, with basic explanations of how the technology works. File formats used for presentations and the use of codecs to process and store these files is demonstrated, together with a brief overview of the software used to plan, capture, edit and display multimedia. We conclude with an examination of content sharing, virality, and the social and ethical implications of current multimedia technology. Show Less

More than 800 billion gigabytes of information is used globally every year. This inconceivably large volume of data must all be stored, retrieved, displayed and used. Featuring case studies of national job search website Seek and the development of a standardised data management system for the Australian aviation industry, this programme provides a comprehensive examination of the complex issues surrounding ethical storage and use of data. It discusses critical issues surrounding: data collection and accuracy of data entry, regulations and privacy concerns, the importance of backups, the emerging trend towards cloud computing, transmission and display, and interpretation and use of data. Show Less

Wikis and blogs are becoming increasingly available on the Internet for anyone to read or create their own. They are also increasingly being used as teaching tools in the classroom. In this programme, we discuss what wikis and blogs are and the differences between them. Students and teachers alike will see how these tools can be used in education, through various examples of use in the classroom. Viewers also meet the CEO and founder of edublogs.com, John Farmer, who demonstrates how easy it is to create your very own wikis and blogs. This is a fascinating look at how incorporating these online tools teaching and learning can enhance and encourage participation in any classroom. Show Less

Maintaining and developing new and existing technologies requires the use of solid problem solving techniques. In this programme, we explain the system of problem solving methodologies that have been devised to assist people in creating technological solutions. Presented using real-life examples with an emphasis on fulfilling customer needs, this programme clearly highlights the advantages of following a logical approach when solving a problem. From designing, developing and testing, through to implementation, evaluation, and reporting on the outcomes, this programme will ensure viewers approach problem solving using a proven strategic method. Show Less

"Desktop Publishing" is the term commonly used to describe the use of a personal computer to perform publishing tasks. In this programme we visit Bridal magazine publishing company Media Ink, to discover how various ICT practices are employed in the production of their popular publication. We see how Media Ink utilise specialist software packages including Adobe Creative Suite and Quark, highlighting many processes that can be emulated by the home-user. We also simplify the complex options that are available to designers for commercial printing. A clear yet detailed explanation of the desktop publishing process that will inspire viewers to create their own digital masterpieces. Show Less

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is integrated into all levels of the 21st-century workplace. Word processing, computerised spreadsheets, email communication and web-based research are just some of the tasks performed every day. In this programme, various employees demonstrate the skills required to be competent in their positions, including using computers effectively in an office, researching a business project, presenting information, types of digital documents, and the use of spreadsheets and databases for decision making and data storage. Understanding the basics will equip viewers with the knowledge and skills essential for work in the modern workplace. Show Less