Federal Chancellor of the Republic of Austria Visits Canadian IS of Hong Kong
By Melanie Hnetka 18-Jan-19
His Excellency the Federal Chancellor of the Republic of Austria, Mr. Sebastian Kurz, recently learned first-hand about the innovative teaching and learning taking place at Canadian International School of Hong Kong. Accompanied by Ministers representing Transport, Innovation, and Technology; Education, Science, and Research; and Digital and Economic Affairs, along with many other prominent Austrian business leaders, the Federal Chancellor interacted with students and staff as he learned how CDNIS incorporates technology into its program. The Federal Chancellor spent time observing a reading lesson with iPads and the use of digital portfolios, while members of the school’s Chinese Studies Department highlighted their e-book program. The guests also visited a teacher professional development session focused on robotics, led by the Learning and Teaching Technologies team, before moving into the school’s Design Studio where Upper School and Lower School students demonstrated how they use iPad Pros, 3D printers, laser cutters, and virtual reality headsets as part of their learning. Board Chairman Mr. Godwin Hwa said, “We were honored to host Chancellor Kurz and for him to recognize the innovative learning and thinking at CDNIS. We know Austrian officials are looking to introduce a tablet program in their schools for students up to the age of 14, and we are extremely proud the Federal Chancellor wanted to experience first-hand our digital program at CDNIS.” During the visit, the Federal Chancellor said, “I have been so impressed with what our delegation has been shown today during our visit to Canadian International School of Hong Kong. Bringing these new technologies into classrooms and providing students with the skills they will need for the future is what all schools should be doing.” Head of School Mr. David Baird said, “We were one of the first Apple Distinguished Schools in Asia and one of the first schools in Hong Kong to introduce a laptop program. CDNIS students have been using iPads as a learning tool since 2011, while our youngest students up to Grade 3 have participated in our one-to-one iPad program for three years now. Starting this year, all Grade 5 and 6 students will spearhead our one-to-one robotics program. There are also countless opportunities for our students to use other technologies including 3D printers, virtual reality, and laser cutters during class time and as part of our extra-curricular program, such as the Blueprint Club.”
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