School of Science

Dr Michelle Ellis

Program Coordinator – DigiTech in Schools: Michelle oversees the engagement, delivery and implementation of Computer and Security Science activities for high school students.

Current Teaching

Programs include:

Girls Programming Network (GPN)

Girls from years 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 are invited to attend a one day workshop where girls teach girls, coding! Held once per school term. The workshops are developed by Michelle Ellis and tutored by ECU Computer and Cyber Security students as well as Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics industry supporters. 

Tools of Innovation

High school students can attend four workshops using different DIY electronics to ‘sense and do’ something developing their innovation skills. Held once per school term. The workshops are developed by Glen Thompson (Programmer/Analyst/Lecturer) and tutored by ECU Computer and Cyber Security Science students.

i-Ops

High school students can attend a half day workshop where they learn how to gather intelligence, use radio communication, gain surveillance skills and crack codes.  Held each semester. The workshops are developed by Jeff Corkhill (Lecturer) and tutored by ECU Counter Terrorism, Intelligence and Security Science students.

IndigiTech

High school students can attend a whole day ECU experience where they learn about the different careers that access technology. Held each semester. The workshops are developed by Michelle Ellis and David Cook (Lecturer) and tutored by ECU Computer and Cyber Security Science students.

Women in STEM

Female high school students can attend a whole day workshop where they access STEM activities, role models and career opportunities. The workshops are developed by Michelle Ellis and Kristina Lemson (Lecturer) and tutored by ECU School of Science and Engineering students.

Digital Technology, Teaching and Learning

Professional development opportunities for teachers who want to develop their knowledge and understanding of the theory and practice of Computer Science in light of the Digital Technologies curriculum. The workshops are developed by Glen Thompson (Programmer Analyst/Lecturer) and Michelle Ellis.

Background

• Primary and High school teacher before moving on to complete her PhD at ECU on Parent/Teacher interactions: The dynamics of social influence.
• Schools of Education: Lecturer of under graduate and post graduate programs at Edith Cowan University and Swinburne University - Working with Indigenous Child, Youth and their Families, Learners and Learning, 21st Century Teaching and Learning, Learning Theories and Practice. 

Research Areas and Interests

• Increasing female participation in Computer and Security Sciences
• Engaging female students in STEM
• 21st century skills and Digital Technologies
• Engaging Indigenous students in the Digital Revolution
• Personal safety and privacy of data in our online world
• Parent-teacher collaborative practices
• Parent-teacher interactions and the use of social influence