Four edtech lessons learned from 2016

Think IT managing director Neil Watkins analyses the trends of the year when it comes to education

This year has been a turbulent one filled with drastic change, and the education sector hasn't escaped these tremors. We've seen a U-turn on ‘academisation', teacher recruitment and retention crises, as well as the reintroduction of grammar schools, not to mention the impending effects of Brexit.

When the dust settles, one thing that remains a focus is the influx of education technology (edtech) available to schools. And there has been a shift from simply purchasing technology for the sake of having new resources, to investing in technology that is both effective and efficient, helping a school's overall performance, rather than hindering it. As such, we've seen the introduction of several big moves and considerations, so with 2016 rapidly drawing to a close, let's take a look at some of the biggest technology successes and concerns schools have faced this year.

Mobile devices

The use of smartphones in school has been a recent source of debate. Some argue that mobile devices are a distraction in the classroom, while others believe they can provide students with an avenue to boost their educational experience.

The younger generations are incredibly tech-savvy and the majority of jobs these days incorporate the use of technology in one way or another. Therefore, schools must embrace it. We need to encourage engaged, creative learners who understand how to get the most from technology, both in the classroom and beyond, so they're as prepared as possible for the 21st century workplace.

Mobile devices can and do enhance education, providing that schools ensure they are being properly monitored and managed, allowing them to focus on what they do best: teaching.

Moving to the cloud

We have seen a rise in cloud computing with the DfE's supporting guidance in July and Microsoft's impending licensing change. However, while many schools we speak to tell us that they are considering moving to the cloud over the next five years, it will inevitably get pushed down the list of priorities. If schools wait and move to the cloud at a later stage, the chances are they'll be spending twice as much on migration costs; an unnerving concept, as nobody knows what IT budgets will look like in five years' time. So now is the time to act.

Cloud computing offers schools many benefits: greater efficiency, easier access to school data, a more secure system, as well as saving on implementation and maintenance costs.

All these can be implemented with no level of disruption to teaching and learning. By working with trusted expert suppliers, the transition can be made seamlessly within the timeframe and budget available, allowing staff to focus on students' learning.

The way in which smartphones and tablets have now infiltrated the lives of pupils and teachers alike means that being able to check term dates, receive school updates, view timetables or access homework tasks on the go makes teachers' lives a lot easier.

Internet security

The need for internet security will continue to grow over the coming years. Many schools have found themselves the victims of cybercrime. From professional hackers after money, to bright students trying to hack into systems for fun, schools are seen by many as easy targets.

It is rumoured that a secondary school recently fell for a phishing email and found that £1m had been removed from its bank account.

Cybersecurity is a huge topic, covering identity management, e-safety, web filtering, app blocking, mobile device management and safeguarding.

As phishing and malware threats become more sophisticated, schools need to ensure all staff are trained sufficiently and that adequate systems are in place to minimise the risks of fraud and hacking.

To avoid attacks, schools should consider penetration testing by an external company to find the weaknesses in their network. To minimise the risk of attack, staff must ensure all data is encrypted and secure.

Having strict safeguarding policies, as well as educating students on the consequences of cyber-bullying and how to stay safe when using the internet, should also help to prevent any issues.

Schools need to get ahead of the game now, and install firm foundations on which to build future protection to create a safer environment for the whole school.

"No one has yet created a blockbusting 'Call of Duty' version for maths. Why is that? You have to assume it's because it's not easy."

Gamification

With the emergence of augmented and virtual reality, gamification has been thrown back into the debate about whether it has the potential to enhance teaching and learning.

However, while a number of manufacturers have tried to incorporate learning into their games, none have been hugely successful. Hundreds of thousands of games for education have also been created by teachers and parents, but these usually concentrate on small or niche areas. Again, while many think they are successful, their appeal seems to be limited; after all, no one has yet created a blockbusting 'Call of Duty' version for maths. Why is that? You have to assume it's because it's not easy.

Creating something interesting, engaging and gripping will encourage students to want to move up to the next level. Imagine a series of interconnected games that cover a range of subjects, skills and topics, with tailored levels based on age and ability. This enables them to learn at their own pace and will appeal to those students who may otherwise struggle with more traditional teaching and learning methods.

Using the data that could be collected from game-based learning will allow us to better prepare students for future skills and work placements.

Neil Watkins is managing director of Think IT