Using education technology effectively

In this video, used with kind permission of Tes, we hear from Cat Scutt with some final reflections about things to think about when using education technology effectively in school. The original video can be found on the Tes website.

In the video, Cat reflects on the following key areas:

Starting point and impact – Start with teaching and learning, rather than technology. Harness technology as a tool to support the aspects of teaching and learning we know are most effective for pupils’ learning. Being clear about what you want to achieve will mean that you’ll be better able to measure whether you manage it.

Be rigorous and honest – Run pilots and review them rigorously, avoiding the temptation to view your education technology use in a more favourable way as a result of the investment of time and money already made. Engaging your teachers in the research evidence that underpins your strategy will help them to implement their use of technology in the most effective ways.

Unintended consequences – Be aware of the unintended consequences of technology, especially where teacher workload is inadvertently being increased as they’re having to prepare a plan B for their lessons in case the technology fails. Considering the wider elements we’ve already considered on this course such as security, cost, and longevity will be key to a thoughtful strategy approach.

Wider applications – Beyond the classroom itself, technology can be a powerful tool for Teacher CPD; increasing accessibility, and creating new collaboration opportunities. It can also be a helpful tool for bridging the gap between home and school.

Once you’re ready, click the ‘Mark as complete’ button below and then select ‘Our learning so far’ to hear from Katy Chedzey with a summary of our learning so far this week.