Securing the future of online networked learning in NZ schools
Join the Flexible Learning Association of New Zealand (FLANZ) and the Kōtuitui Online Teachers Network for an engaging webinar discussing the newly released FLANZ advocacy paper, ‘Enhancing Education Access in the New Zealand Schooling Sector Through Online Networked Learning‘.
Register here
Currently, our Years 0–13 schooling sector faces significant challenges, including a lack of integrated policy and unsustainable funding for essential Virtual Learning Network (VLN) organisations. These systemic gaps directly impact students in small, rural, and remote schools who rely on networked learning for access to specialist subjects, STEM, te reo Māori, and critical literacy and Mathematics support.
In this webinar, we will unpack the paper’s critical findings and explore our four key recommendations to the Ministry of Education:
- Developing a robust policy and regulatory framework to govern networked learning.
- Providing formal recognition and sustained support for public VLNs.
- Establishing sustainable funding models to move away from year-on-year uncertainty.
- Enhancing teacher capability for online and hybrid environments through Initial Teacher Education programs.
Whether you are a teacher, school leader, policymaker, or education advocate, your voice is essential to this conversation. Discover how we can collectively support system resilience, better utilise teaching resources, and ensure high-quality, equitable education for all learners, regardless of their geographic location.
The facilitators
Rachel Whalley, MEd, is an ePrincipal with Kōtui Ako (formerly the VLN Primary). She was previously ePrincipal with the TaraNet VLN cluster and lead facilitator for Bardwired Central Taranaki ICTPD cluster. Rachel is passionate about equity and access to education and the power of technology to connect communities and open up new opportunities to learn.
Dr Lucie Lindsay is Kōtui Ako VLN Deputy ePrincipal (Primary). Her previous roles include teacher professional learning development on using digital tools for teaching and learning, Primary teaching, and in Information Technology. Lucie’s PhD was on networked professional learning design. She is a Lead teacher in Kōtuitui Network of Expertise which provides professional leadership and support for online teaching and learning pedagogies.