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School Matters, August 29, 2003 - a Department of Education and Training WA publication for teachers.

Students Virtually Challenged

Eager young would-be parliamentarians at Darlington PS are getting their first look at democracy in action. More than 50 students have signed up to vote in the Student Virtual Parliament, an innovative online voting forum linking students from around the country.

Darlington has become the first primary school in WA to sign up for the parliament that gives students the opportunity to canvas a range of subjects from our politicians to animal welfare. Other WA schools involved are Hamilton SHS and Warnbro CC.

Student Virtual Parliament gives students an experience of democracy at its most transparent. The website allows them to set their own agenda as well as debate the issues of the day.

The parliament is open to all primary and secondary schools, 125 (now 170) across Australia and New Zealand having so far registered to vote. Darlington teacher in charge of the program Trudi Watts said pupils had been quick to embrace the concept.

"They can't wait until it is their turn to vote" she said. "As well as learning about parliamentary procedures, they are able to talk, indirectly, with students round the country and New Zealand." The program has proved so popular Trudi said she was expecting to activate another 40 individual passwords for students.

"Students in years 5, 6, and 7 have been involved, but we even have a Year 4 taking part," she said. Trudi said that apart from learning the parliamentary process, students were learning computing skills, debating technique and literacy-based skills. They were also learning to listen to other people.

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