The EdTech Strategy – opportunity or missed opportunity?
The recently published Educational Technology Strategy from the DfE has certainly got the discussions
on use of technology in schools going again. This is a good thing after too long where its been
pretty much ignored at that level. Twitter et al have been busy discussing its merits and limitations.
For recent DfE thinking I welcome it as a step forward. However, what struck home with me was
when our good friend Bob Harrison highlighted the definition of Educational Technology they use.
“Educational Technology (EdTech) refers to the practice of using technologies to support teaching,
and the effective day-to-day management of education institutions”
Where is learning?
The focus on the strategy seems, lining up with other DfE agenda, to be to reduce workload for
teachers and administrators. Nothing wrong with that in principle. To be honest I cant see anything
particularly new on this in this Strategy, compared to previous ones, but maybe, just maybe, this
time we will see some positive actions.
What I find more disappointing is the opportunity missed. EdTech is also about supporting learning and this has been ignored. The research is there, the practice that can be shared is there, the will from teachers is there. Where is the political will?