Meet the Chair of the Education Working Group: An Interview with Matthew Ferrinda

A conversation with Matthew Ferrinda, Team Leader - Digital Learning within the Teaching and Learning team at CEWA.

Matthew Ferrinda, Chair of the Catholic Network Australia's Education Working Group (EWG), is a passionate advocate for Catholic education. In this interview, we delve into the EWG's mission, current initiatives, and future aspirations.

Q. What is your role within Catholic Education Western Australia (CEWA)?

I am the Team Leader - Digital Learning within the Teaching and Learning team at CEWA, where I lead and support digital learning initiatives across the state.

I'm passionate about using technology to empower students and teachers and promote lifelong learning. Our mission is to drive positive change in education by providing innovative solutions that engage students and enhance learning outcomes. As an executive member and education working group chair at Catholic Network Australia, I collaborate with other Catholic education leaders to share best practices in digital learning.

Q: What is the role of the Education Working Group (EWG) in shaping the future of Catholic education?

The EWG is the most representative group within CNA, comprising members from most Dioceses. We're dedicated to providing tangible and intangible benefits to CNA members. We strive to identify areas of friction within the Catholic education sector and collaborate to find collective solutions. Our overarching goal is to leverage technology to enhance learning experiences and streamline processes.

The EWG plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of Catholic education by identifying emerging trends, sharing best practices, and fostering innovation. We strive to create a supportive network for educators, empowering them to deliver high-quality, faith-based education.

Q: Are there any specific initiatives/projects the Working Group is currently working on?

A significant focus for the EWG is the STEM MAD National Showcase, a major event that unites the Catholic education community through a national competition. We're also exploring student incursions and developing a cyber safety micro-credentialed course in partnership with the Cyber Safety Project.

The EWG is involved in a range of initiatives, a few examples include:

• STEM MAD National Showcase: A national event that unites Catholic students through online competitions and face-to-face showcases.

• Student Incursions: Connecting students with experts on various topics throughout the year.

• The Cyber Safety Project: A pilot project focusing on safe and responsible AI use and addressing the need for market credentialing in AI use among teachers.

Q: How is the EWG addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by technology, particularly AI?

As Pope Francis warned G7 leaders earlier this year, ‘We would condemn humanity to a future without hope if we took away people's ability to make decisions about themselves and their lives by dooming them to depend on the choices of machines’.

The EWG recognises the transformative potential of technology, including AI. We are actively exploring how to harness AI and other transformative technologies to enhance learning experiences and streamline processes.

However, we also acknowledge the ethical implications and potential biases associated with AI. By promoting responsible and ethical use of technology, we aim to ensure that it benefits students and educators alike.

Q: How does the EWG ensure that Catholic schools are inclusive and equitable?

The EWG is committed to ensuring that all Catholic schools provide inclusive and equitable education for all students. We advocate for policies and practices that support students with diverse needs, including students with disabilities, gifted and talented students, and students from diverse cultural backgrounds.

One small but meaningful act to be inclusive involves rotating our annual face-to-face events. We try to cycle through participant geographies. In the past two years, we've met in Bendigo, Brisbane, Perth, Cairns, and Parramatta.

Q: How does the EWG envision the future of Catholic education?

It's easy to feel overwhelmed by the risks and threats posed by rapidly evolving technologies, but we're optimistic. Rather than avoiding technology, we're taking a thoughtful approach - helping educators and parents navigate digital environments wisely and choose tools that truly support our mission rather than simply adopting every new trend.

The EWG is uniquely positioned to help build stronger connections between schools, sharing resources and expertise to overcome shared challenges and opportunities. This collaborative approach strengthens both our Catholic identity and our educational effectiveness.

By embracing innovation, fostering collaboration, and prioritising student wellbeing, we envision a future where Catholic schools continue to be leaders in educational excellence, preparing students to be informed, compassionate, and engaged citizens.

Thanks for speaking with us Matt!

If you’d like to learn more about the Education Working Group or have any suggestions, please contact us at info@cna.catholic.edu.au.