SYDNEY: Galstaun College has continued to advance in the information technology space with the receipt of another software donation from Microsoft Australia, as part of the company's Citizenship and Employee Donation Program.

In the past three years the College has received $6,000 worth of the latest Microsoft software, which has included: Windows 7; Microsoft Outlook and Word; Vista; Windows Server; and Xbox games, including Halo and Zoo Tycoon.

The Sydney Armenian community's largest day school has recently improved its on-site IT facilities with faster internet connection, new servers, computers and data projectors for every classroom, which will supplement the existing interactive whiteboards (SMART boards) that were installed last year.

"I have been so impressed with the generosity of the community in supporting the College Board's vision for enhancing the student and teacher access to information and communication technology," e-Learning Cordinator Joseph Messiha said.

"Without the contribution of companies like Microsoft donating software, families and friends donating hardware and raising funds and community members donating time and expertise to install our equipment, the College would not be in its current strong position."

Head of College Carolyn Blanden noted that the teachers had spent a significant portion of their professional development time sharing ideas and strategies for making the most of the new technology to enhance student learning.

"We are very fortunate to be so well resourced in this area," she said.

"ICT enables teachers to cater to students' diverse learning styles and to make lessons interesting and relevant to today's world. There is no doubt that teaching and learning is so much richer with the use of these new technologies," she added.

Microsoft has also been working closely with Galstaun College through its internet safety and security partnership called "Think U Know".

Think U Know is a partnership program between the Australian Federal Police, Microsoft and Ninemsn, which aims to educate teachers and parents about the risks faced online and how to create a safe internet experience for young people.

The first presentation for parents was held on 11th August at Nalbandian Hall and a second is planned for later in the year to assist families who live in Western Sydney. Enquires can be addressed to Galstaun College Office on 9970 6984.