Information Technology
Home > Information Technology > Resources > Resources
Search Site Reviews
Resource reviews are provided for teachers to support their teaching and learning programs.
The views expressed by reviewers are not necessarily those of the NSW Department of Education and Training. Copyright for reviews is held by the NSW Department of Education and Training. Permission for reproduction of reviews in part or full for any purpose must be sought in writing. For further information contact colleen.foley@det.nsw.edu.au
Sites are listed alphabetically by title. Those reviews which note links to other sites, especially as a major part of the site, will require additional exploration time by teachers to verify specific curriculum applications relevant to their classes. The USER LEVEL descriptor, Professional, is a pertinent reminder of such issues. Please note that changes happen daily on the Internet. Sites come and go. We cannot guarantee that the following sites are permanent or are structured as they were when they were reviewed.
3D model builder: learn the language of PlayStation
Audacity: the free, cross-platform sound editor
Conduit connect
Discovering computers 2010 Fundamentals
Learn the Net
Living Internet
The most complex machine
Move it!
Museum of Modern Technology
Obsolete Technology Website
Peter Murphy’s panoramic VR weblog
WhatsTheDownload.com
3D model builder: learn the language of PlayStation 
The site is a graphic design program used to create rendered images of 3D objects. Tutorials are provided for step-by-step instructions on drawing organic shapes, curves, buildings, models and engineering products. The user must first download the CAD software from the website and then follow the detailed tutorials to construct the various models. Initial trial software is free with the option to purchase additions to the basic package. Some designs are labelled as simple tasks for children, and examples of basic projects include building police cars, animals, buildings, boats and helicopters. Colourful and enthusiastically constructed, the site is an interesting learning tool for design and ICT topics. A. Parnis
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: CA; TAS
SYLLABUS: Computing Applications CEC Stage 6; Design & Technology 7–10; Design & Technology Stage 6; Graphics Technology 7–10; Visual Design CEC Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Computer-aided design; Graphic arts
PUBLISHER: TheyerGFX, Australia
REVIEW DATE: 17/12/07 [620] SCIS 1336091
Audacity: the free, cross-platform sound editor
This site offers free software for recording and editing sounds and audio files. Users can record live audio, and convert tapes or vinyl records to digital recordings and CDs. Features include the ability to cut and copy files, splice and mix an unlimited number of files and tracks, add effects such as echo and reverse, and alter the pitch, tempo and volume of a recording. Importantly, students can import, change and export a wide range of different file formats, including MP3, using optional encoder software. As open source software, the program code is available to study, copy, change, and share with others. The software is easy to use and it has broad cross-curriculum application. For instance, it could be used to enhance slide, video or podcast presentations, and to incorporate audio into school websites. It is particularly suited to those TAS subjects where digital media technical learning is a focus. P. Conroy
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: CA; TAS; VET
SYLLABUS: Computing Applications CEC Stage 6; Design & Technology 7–10; Information Processes & Technology Stage 6; Music 7–10; Music Stage 6; Photography, Video & Digital Imaging CEC Stage 6; Technology (Mandatory) 7–8
SCIS SUBJECTS: Computer programs; Free material; Sound synthesis – Equipment
PUBLISHER: Audacity, USA
REVIEW DATE: 18/12/06 [006.5] SCIS 1279412
Conduit connect
A useful site that facilitates the creation of toolbars, this resource could be of use to teachers developing a community or school website and for students to develop their own toolbar. The free toolbars will help internet users locate relevant information instantly. Following the Community and Gallery links, site users can type in any topic to access a plethora of already created toolbars, or visit the site that created the toolbar. For example, a search on environment provides a host of environmental organisations, and a search on library provides links to various libraries. Toolbars are easy to create and download, with simple and direct instructions. A. Frost
USER LEVEL: Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Information Technology Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Web browsers; Websites – design and construction
PUBLISHER: Conduit, USA
REVIEW DATE: 10/09/07 [006.7] SCIS 1324417
Discovering Computers 2010 Fundamentals
This link takes you to a page where you can download PowerPoint based quizzes.
A fantastic resource, this site can be used in conjunction with many current technology textbooks, including the one upon which the site is based, and all educational tools are free to use.
Learn the Net
This is an excellent resource for students who are learning about the Internet and the WorldWideWeb. Students can read information, view animations and complete quizzes on a broad range of related topics. In the How to category, students select Master the basics to discover the basics of the Internet. Here, students can select from the many other interesting topics such as: Surf the web; Harness e-mail; Find information; Join newsgroups; Conference; Music, video and photos; Web publishing; Do e-business; Find the right job and Protect yourself. In another category, students can learn about Online shopping and How it works. The site has relevance to the Information and Software Technology syllabus Core Topic 2: Past, current and emerging technologies; the Core Topic 4: Hardware; and the Core Topic 5: Issues. It is particularly useful for the study of multimedia and digital media, the Internet, and website development. A. Kokkotas
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: TAS; VET
SYLLABUS: Information & Software Technology 7–10; Information Processes & Technology Stage 6; Information Technology Curriculum Framework Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Ecommerce; Electronic publishing; Email; Internet
PUBLISHER: Michael Lerner Productions, USA
REVIEW DATE: 30/04/07 [004.67] SCIS 1004735
Living Internet
Providing detailed histories of people who have developed and shaped the Internet, this site is a comprehensive resource. Teachers and students can access indexed and cross referenced information on a wide range of topics, which include: Internet; Web; Email; Usenet; History; Design; Use; and Security. Answering questions about How the Internet was invented and How the Internet is managed, the site addresses outcomes related to the foundations of web software design, and the people who have shaped the building of the Internet, from ARPANET to The World Wide Web we rely on today. The content of the site is updated regularly and links are maintained to over 2 000 related sites which would require time to check for syllabus relevance. This informative site is useful for delivering technology based subject content. B. Maher
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Computing Studies 7–10; Information Processes & Technology Stage 6; Information Technology Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Internet (Computer network)
PUBLISHER: Livinginternet.com, Canada
REVIEW DATE: 16/03/05 [004.67] SCIS 1157122
The most complex machine
A course based site, the information provided can be used to resource any technology based lesson across several key learning areas. The labs section is a valuable resource for students completing outcomes related to processor functions and architecture, and using various types of software. Embedded applets allow students to complete hand on activities based on electronic circuit design and computer logic. Included chapter summaries are supported by detailed information and diagrams, a great source of information for class research activities or projects. Assessment of outcomes is addressed with past examination questions being included. Although dated, these are related to the site’s content. B. Maher
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Computing Studies 7–10; Information Processes &Technology Stage 6; Information Technology Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Computers
PUBLISHER: D. Eck, USA
REVIEW DATE: 16/03/05 [004] SCIS 1157134
Move it!
The site has interesting and sound information on occupational health and safety principles and strategies for students and teachers. Looking at movements in The classroom, At home, and With friends, the site aims to enhance the way people move and sit to minimise discomfort, pain and injury. The site would be useful when investigating ergonomically sound work environments in Stage 3 Science and Technology, and Unit BSBOHS201A in Business Services Stage 6. Students investigating muscles and muscle use in Science 7–10 will also engage with the site. Clearly written suggestions complement the simple, interactive graphic activities that highlight key practical ideas to adjust furniture and body positions. Quickly downloadable notes provide more detail, with theoretical and practical lesson ideas, class discussion topics, and extension activities. A. Frost
USER LEVEL: Stage 3 Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: Science; SciTech; VET
SYLLABUS: Business Services Curriculum Framework Stage 6; Information Technology Curriculum Framework Stage 6; Science 7–10; Science & Technology K–6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Computers – Safety measures; Ergonomics; Posture
PUBLISHER: ACC, NZ
REVIEW DATE: 01/06/10 [613.7] SCIS 1414802
Museum of Modern Technology
Attractive, easy to use and reliable, this museum’s online Lobby offers a choice of four impressive exhibits: Operating system / desktop, E-mail, The World Wide Web and Networks. The exhibits begin with a tour where students are introduced to the purpose, function, operation and issues associated with each topic. The engaging interactive nature of the exhibits with graphics, animated demonstrations, quizzes, questions and answers is very appealing. The site will encourage critical thinking and further use of online learning. A. Kokkotas
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: TAS; VET
SYLLABUS: Information & Software Technology 7–10; Information Processes & Technology Stage 6; Information Technology Curriculum Framework Stage 6; Technology (Mandatory) 7–8
SCIS SUBJECTS: Computer networks; Email; Operating systems (Computers)
PUBLISHER: ACT360 Media, USA
REVIEW DATE: 30/04/07 [004] SCIS 1292052
Obsolete Technology Website
Finally a web site has been developed to address computer technology from the early days of computer evolution. Exhibits allows teachers to take a stroll down memory lane and revisit old computers. Students can access descriptions and graphics to appreciate the progression in design to the development of the processor in its current form. The site provides users with access to examples of computers which have contributed to, or hindered, the technology we use in classrooms. Teachers can build research modules around the site content to promote the use of secondary sources of data, and to allow students to build on their knowledge of the history of computers and their impact on society. S. Milton
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Computing Studies 7–10; Information Processes & Technology Stage 6; Information Technology Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Computers – History
PUBLISHER: Sysop, USA
REVIEW DATE: 16/03/05 [004.09] SCIS 1157116
Peter Murphy’s panoramic VR weblog
From the premiere of Matrix Revolutions in November 2003 to the launch of streetradio.net in March 2004, Peter Murphy’s virtual panoramic photographs provide a wonderful set of images relating to current and popular issues. Updated on a regular basis, the thumbnail pictures are links to larger Panoramic images, accessible with QuickTime. Text accompanying the pictures has links to other sites, including news articles and Murphy’s own personal leads. These have many potential uses for Society and culture students, and English students. Photography and computer students could find some useful links in My vr theory blog in virtual reality computer software. My other website contains more panoramic pictures and links to articles on virtual reality modelling languages (VRML). L. Pratt
USER LEVEL: Stage 6 Professional
KLA: CA; HSIE; TAS
SYLLABUS: Information Technology Stage 6; Photography, Video & Digital Imaging Stage 6; Society & Culture Stage 6; Software Design and Development Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Earth – Pictorial works; Voyages and travels – Pictorial works
PUBLISHER: P. Murphy, Australia
REVIEW DATE: 16/03/05 [910.22] SCIS 1168018
WhatsTheDownload.com
Easy to read and navigate, and appealing to a teenage audience, this site
raises awareness about the responsibility and ethical attitude to downloading
music
from the Internet. Students can read true cases, current
articles and opinions of people within the recording industry. So … what’s the download?!,
followed by More introduces copyright issues. What’s the controversy?
and The lowdown discuss the practice of downloading music
from the Internet, with special emphasis on the use of compact mp3 format.
Students can learn
about the issues related to copyright and piracy within the music industry
before accessing Get music now, then discuss the various
issues and obtain information from Legal stuff, or access FAQs for
summarised information. The site has relevance for the Information and Software
Technology Years 7–10
syllabus outcome 5.3.1. A. Kokkotas
USER LEVEL: Stage 3 Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: CA; TAS; VET
SYLLABUS: Creative Arts K–6; Music 7–10; Information & Software
Technology 7–10; Information Processes & Technology Stage 6; Information
Technology Curriculum Framework Stage 6; Technology (Mandatory) 7–8
SCIS SUBJECTS: Copyright; Internet (Computer network); Music
industry; Musicians
PUBLISHER: The Recording Academy, USA
REVIEW DATE: 01/03/06 [781.64] SCIS 1234974
|