Australian Council for Computers in Education (ACCE)

The Australian Council for Computers in Education (ACCE) is the national professional organization dedicated to promoting the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in education across Australia. As a nonprofit entity, ACCE plays a pivotal role in fostering excellence in digital education and supporting initiatives that enhance learning outcomes using technology.

Background

Established as a national body, ACCE comprises representatives from state and territory Computer Education Groups and the Australian Computer Society. This structure ensures that ACCE reflects a comprehensive perspective on ICT integration in education, drawing from both governmental and professional sectors.

Activities and Initiatives

ACCE is actively involved in several key initiatives:

• Publication of Journal: ACCE publishes the journal Australian Educational Computing, which serves as a platform for sharing research, best practices, and innovative approaches in educational technology.

• Conferences: ACCE organizes conferences, notably the biennial Australian Computers in Education Conference (ACEC), where educators and professionals gather to share experiences and discuss global trends in using ICT for enhanced classroom learning.

• Professional Development: Each state and territory in Australia has an independent association under ACCE, focusing on professional development for educators in leveraging learning technologies. This includes promoting various models of computer education like Bring Your Own Device (BYOD), blended learning, online learning, and flipped learning.

• International Affiliations: ACCE is affiliated with international organizations such as the International Society for Technology Education (ISTE) and the Technology Education Federation of Australia (TEFA), which supports its mission to stay aligned with global best practices.

Mission and Objectives

The mission of ACCE is to support ICT and digital education initiatives nationwide. It aims to encourage and maintain excellence in the use of ICT in education, influencing student learning outcomes positively. By supporting educators and promoting innovative practices, ACCE contributes significantly to the advancement of Australia's education system.

Structure

The ACCE Board consists of representatives from state and territory Computer Education Groups and the Australian Computer Society, ensuring a diverse and comprehensive approach to educational technology.

Impact

Through its activities, ACCE has made a substantial impact on the integration of ICT in Australian education. It continues to play a vital role in shaping the nation's approach to digital learning by fostering a collaborative environment where educators can exchange ideas and experiences.

[1] https://acce.edu.au [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_Computers_in_Education_Conference [3] https://www.bildungsserver.de/bisy.html?a=5931&spr=1 [4] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/1809e970-38af-e811-a961-000d3ad24182 [5] https://www.schoolstream.com.au/supporting-the-acce2016/