DATTA Vic - About Us

Technology is an area of the curriculum that incorporates traditional subjects using tools and materials with new technological knowledge applied through the central focus of the Technological (Design) Process.

The DATTA Vic. represents Technology Teachers in Education throughout Victoria.

The DATTA Vic. is a non profit organisation that was formed in October 1987. Since our humble beginnings as a group of like minded teachers of Technology we have grown to a membership of over 650.

• We hold annual conferences and facilitate various Professional Learning workshops throughout the year.
• Our Education Officer (TBA) is available for consultation and support.
• We have initiated electronic communication and developed a Web Site to assist with rapid communication.
• Sub groups are developing in country areas such as Geelong, Gippsland. This is to better provide support for teachers in rural locations. These groups have organised and run activities locally.

We have also undertaken a major review of our operation to better meet the ever changing needs of our members.

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The Membership

The membership of the Design and Technology Teachers Association Victoria includes primary and secondary teachers, principals, consultants, tertiary educators as well as business and industry groups. We exist primarily as an educational service for teachers and schools but are pleased to welcome anyone with an interest in Technology Education to our association.

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Mission

The DATTA Vic  aims to provide advice & support for teachers that fosters:

• The study and teaching of Technology Education 
• The Professional Learning of teachers.
• The ongoing development of the Technology Learning Area Liaison with: - DEET, VCAA, CEO and Independent Schools
• National Technology Organisations - Higher Education Institutions
• Other relevant Industries and groups.

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Aims of DATTA Vic

To foster the study and teaching of Technology

To foster the Professional Learning of teachers

To liaise with ~

• The Department of Early Childhood Education and Training
• Council of Professional Teachers Associations of Victoria (CPTAV)
• Design And Technology Teachers’ Association Australia (DATTA Australia)
• Technology Education Federation of Australia (TEFA)
• Individual subject associations for the purposes of Professional Learning
• Other professional bodies
• Educational Institutions
• Relevant Industry, Community and Government Organisations

To take such measures as may be advantageous to advance the view of the Association on any matters affecting the study and teaching of Technology Education and its applications.

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Benefits of Membership

• links with National Associations through its representation on the Design And Technology Teachers’ Association Australia (DATTA Australia). DATTA Australia in turn is a member of the recognised National body the Technology Federation of Australia (Technology TEFA). 
• regular contact with technology subject associations in other states and territories.
• access to resource information and personnel with expertise in Technology.
• received discounts on Professional Learning activities.
• contact with many other involved teachers and the opportunity to contribute to "TECHNOTES" our journal, in order to share concerns and knowledge and be kept up to date.
• on line and physical access to resources and resource lists, previews of books and video tapes.

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Journals and Publications

The DATTA Vic has two publications:

• a newsletter called DATTA Vic News published at the beginning of each term

 and 

• a Journal called 'TECHNOTES' 

These publications welcome contributions from all members and keeps members informed about current issues and Professional Learning activities, as well as providing advice about resources and practical classroom activities.

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Links to National Organisations

The DATTA Vic and its members have links with National Associations through its representation on the 

• Design And Technology Teachers’ Association Australia (DATTA Australia). DATTA Australia in turn is a member of the recognised National body the Technology Federation of Australia (Technology TEFA). 
• Further to this DATTA Vic is regularly in contact with subject associations in other states and territories.

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