ACS Educators' Committee and WA Member Wins Education Award
Highlights
- Accomplished educator: Michelle is a recognized expert in digital technologies and computer science education, with a proven track record of inspiring and empowering students.
- Industry leader: Michelle has actively engaged with industry professionals, collaborating on projects and advocating for the importance of computer science education in WA.
Having started teaching after a 15 year career in IT as an Oracle programmer and Project Manager in London and Perth, Michelle is now an acclaimed educator in Digital Technologies and Computer Science, supporting students in Years 6-12. Her achievements at school include facilitating the Microsoft Imagine Cup, leading a Year 7 team to the national finals, and facilitated a Cyber Security club with Edith Cowan University, securing industry certifications for students. Michelle actively enhances her school's after-school Computer Club, engaging IT-savvy parents to provide real-world learning experiences. She also developed a data analytics workbook with ADSEI, presented at the 2023 Google Educators Conference.
Michelle recently completed her Master of Education, focusing on computer science pedagogy. She connected with international researchers, enhancing her expertise, and presented her capstone project titled "Teaching OOP to Secondary Students" at state and national conferences. This year, Michelle embraced the challenge of teaching Year 11 ATAR Computer Science for the first time, collaborating with SCSA to implement best practices in this evolving field.
Outside of school, Michelle is also renowned for her resourceful website, "MrsChom.com", and creating impactful "Women in Computing" posters to promote diversity in tech fields. She also serves as a Room Leader and Senior Mentor at Perth's Girls Programming Network, supporting over 200 students annually and fostering a collaborative, empowering environment for young female tech enthusiasts.
Michelle, an active member of the Educational Computing Association of WA, contributes to professional development and has presented at Future Schools 2019 and EduTECH 2023. She collaborates with the ACS's national ICT Educators Committee, develops impactful educational resources, and was a WACE marker, enriching her professional expertise. Her efforts earned her the 2023 ACS (WA) 1962 Educators Award, reflecting her impact on ICT education in WA.
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The Girls Programming Network seeks female and gender-diverse coding volunteers to assist with Saturday sessions at UWA once per term. No specific language is required, though basic Python is a bonus. Interested? Complete the Tutor form to inspire and support the next generation of coders.
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