Technologies

Over the past 20 years, how technology is used in schools has changed beyond recognition. From having just one or two computers per school, to 'computer suites' where specific skills were taught and practised, to today, where many schools aim to provide access to technology across the whole school and to use it across all subjects. Next Generation Learning has arrived!

Next Generation Learning can take many forms. Here we talk about many of the tools and technologies we associate with Next Generation Learning, and importantly, how they are being used for learning.

The first section below looks at some of the most common technologies used in schools today. These include: interactive whiteboards, learning platforms and mobile technologies.

The second section looks at how some other tools and technologies such as digital cameras and blogs, are being used in some of the best schools around the country.

Most common technologies

Interactive whiteboards

The 'blackboard and chalk' culture is in the past.  Today, over 95% of UK schools are equipped with interactive whiteboards, making learning more engaging, …

Learning platforms

The great news is that ICT resources in UK schools are now at record levels. All UK primary and secondary schools now have a broadband connection to the …

Mobile technologies

The exciting potential of learning 'anytime, anywhere' is finally starting to be realised. As devices such as laptop computers and personal digital assistants …

Other learning technologies

Radio stations

Many schools putting technology at the heart of their curriculum have discovered new and exciting ways to let pupils express themselves. Some even have …

Podcasts

Most young people have access to portable mp3 players. For most this is used for listening to their favourite music but for an increasing number this is …

Robots

As well as being a staple of science fiction stories, robots and control systems have become essential parts of modern industry and are increasingly being …

Wikis

One of the most exciting web technologies to emerge in the last few years is the wiki. Learners love them because it gives them a chance to contribute to …

Video conferencing

Video conferencing technology can bring the whole world into the classroom. With the ability to talk to and see people in another room, building or country, …

Digital cameras

Digital photography has transformed the way we capture the world on holiday, at work and at play. Most young people don’t remember film cameras or how much …

Blogs

If you’ve been surfing the web in the last few years, you might have heard of ‘blogs’ or 'weblogs'. If you have (or have not), here’s your chance to find …

Gaming

Some schools are investigating the use of gaming devices to support learning. This is at an early stage but some of the early evidence is positive. Case …

Music technologies

Technology has had a significant impact on how music is created and manipulated. Many of today’s top artists started working on home computers creating …

GPS

Global Positioning System (GPS) technology is changing the way we work, play and, in particular, travel. It’s also providing schools and colleges with …

Related content

Johnny Ball talks up technology in schools

In an interview with Terry Freedman, Johnny Ball talked about the positive impact technology is having on school performance. He believes that about 20% …

Your child and technology (Key Stage 2)

By now, your child should be using technology confidently enough to develop their research skills and decide what information is needed for their work. …

Wikis

One of the most exciting web technologies to emerge in the last few years is the wiki. Learners love them because it gives them a chance to contribute to …

Video conferencing

Video conferencing technology can bring the whole world into the classroom. With the ability to talk to and see people in another room, building or country, …

Robots

As well as being a staple of science fiction stories, robots and control systems have become essential parts of modern industry and are increasingly being …

 
 

Other useful sites

Next Generation Learning is not responsible for the content of external internet sites.

Teachers TV

BBC

Think U Know website
Information about online safety for young people, including using blogs, chatting and online gaming.

UK online centres
Free or low-cost access to computers and the internet, along with help and advice on how to use them.