Overhead projectors and other obsolete relics are being removed from TAFE classrooms in regional NSW as part of $74 million investment in upgrading technology.
The government splurge is designed to enhance connectivity across 68 predominantly regional campuses while upgrading a wi-fi network installed back in 2009.
Nearly 15,000 new devices will be provided to students with an overhaul of teaching spaces hoped to make sure all students have the digital infrastructure to succeed regardless of their location.
Mark Penman, who is the head teacher at Wellington TAFE in central west NSW, said he has previously found himself carrying his laptop around his classroom during lessons trying to get some workable wi-fi.
“This was very disruptive and hindered the learning experience,” he said.
“I see firsthand how important it is to provide access to quality education for students from regional, rural and disadvantaged communities … many of our students rely heavily on campus-based digital infrastructure to complete their coursework."
NSW TAFE Minister Steve Whan accused the former coalition government of overseeing a system where classrooms crumbled and roofs leaked, with teachers also feeling undervalued.
“Technology-enriched campuses will enable TAFE NSW to better deliver skills for critical and emerging industries,” he said.
“Investing in TAFE NSW ensures the capacity to deliver skills for critical and emerging industries for a modern economy is increased, and key workers in priority industries are trained to build a robust, scalable, and skilled workforce."
The first round of improvements are set to include wi-fi and digital infrastructure upgrades, with all 68 of the campuses scheduled to be tuned up by June next year.
