Damian Hinds picks out five key areas where he belives both UK firms and global giants like Apple and Microsoft can help
Credit: Kyle Bursaw/AP/Press Association Images
Too few schools are taking advantage of the latest technological opportunities, according to education secretary Damian Hinds.
He urged the technology sector to direct more help to schools, noting that only a minority used state-of-the-art technology capable of helping children do everything from taking virtual trips through the Amazon to controlling robots, while also reducing the time teachers spent on administration.
Hinds urged both the UK tech sector and global players like Apple and Microsoft to help in five key areas: new teaching practices that support access, inclusion and improved learning; improved assessment processes; teacher-training delivery; reducing administration; and providing distance learning for those who have left formal education.
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These companies would be asked to provide evidence of how they assisted educational institutions.
He said: “Schools, colleges and universities have the power to choose the tech tools which are best for them and their budgets. But they cannot do this alone. It’s only by forging a strong partnership between government, technology innovators and the education sector that there will be sustainable, focused solutions which will ultimately support and inspire the learners of today and tomorrow.”
Over the autumn, the Department for Education will work with the Chartered College of Teaching, the British Educational Suppliers Association and other industry leaders to develop online training packages, establish an online portal providing free software trials for schools, and bring together industry and school leaders through regional events.
