VIEWS & OPINION The importance of bridging the gap between
technology and education Comment by Martyn Collins, Festival Director at BRILLIANT
In today’s fast-paced world, technology plays an increasingly important role in education. From cutting-edge design tools to online learning platforms, technology has the power to enhance the learning experience for students in ways never before possible. However, despite the benefits that technology can bring to the classroom, most teachers simply do not have the time to familiarise themselves with the latest tools and platforms that their students are using on a regular basis.
One of the main reasons why teachers don’t always have the time for this is simply because they are already stretched thin. From lesson planning to grading to extracurricular activities, teachers have a lot on their plate. Adding the task of learning a new technology platform on top of everything else can feel overwhelming and daunting. Furthermore, the education landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies and platforms being introduced at a rapid pace. It can be difficult for teachers to keep up with these changes, especially if they are not given the time or resources to do so. As a result, many teachers may stick to familiar tools and platforms that they know how to use, rather than taking the time to learn something new.
It is crucial for teachers to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to technology, as it is an integral part of students’ lives both inside and
outside the classroom. By familiarising themselves with the technology their students are using, teachers can better understand their needs and provide more engaging and interactive learning experiences. Whether it’s using Adobe to create multimedia presentations or Canva to design eye-catching graphics, technology offers a wealth of opportunities for both teachers and students. By staying up-to-date with the latest tools and platforms, teachers can become more efficient in their teaching methods and better prepare their students for success in a technology-driven world. Therefore, it is imperative for educators to embrace and integrate technology into their teaching practices to ensure that they are effectively preparing their students for the digital age. By providing educators with the resources and support they need to navigate the ever-changing landscape of educational technology, BRILLIANT Festival, taking place on 15 October 2024, will connect teachers with the latest technology platforms and tools. By bridging the gap between technology and education, we can empower teachers to integrate these tools into their lesson plans and engage with their students in new and exciting ways. The free-to-attend festival will feature an impressive line-up of speakers and contributors, including industry leaders from Google, Canva and Adobe. There will also be a hands-on experience where teachers will sit as students, participating in immersive, technology-driven lessons to break traditional educational barriers.
Register to attend at
https://www.brilliantfestival.com.
Why we need to make time for play Comment by DR GINA GOMEZ DE LA CUESTA, Clinical Psychologist and Founder of Play Included
The first ever International Day of Play took place on 11 June and highlighted the importance of play. The true power of play is astounding – with the time, space and access to play at school, every child can reach their full potential, as research indicates that children actually learn best through play. However, sadly, research from the LEGO Foundation shows that one in three children don’t have time to play. Despite the evidenced benefits of play, there are still misconceptions around play and playful experiences, such as the correct way to play.
Firstly, play is never just play. During playtime, children learn to communicate, take turns and problem-solve; all of which are invaluable skills which should never be separated from play. Playing together also offers children important, meaningful social interactions, which help improve their mental wellbeing. During the isolation of the pandemic, many children were deprived of opportunities to experience playful interactions, which has had far-reaching consequences on their development, with teachers now reporting seeing more pupils struggling to communicate clearly or share with their peers in the classroom. Secondly, there is no right or wrong way to play. Play is one of the best ways for children to make sense of their experiences, their feelings, and the world around them. During child-led play, children develop agency and ownership. Playing with their peers, whether this is building a LEGO model, creating shapes from playdough or inventing a new game, also
June 2024
supports the development of their creativity and communication skills. All children are born with an innate curiosity which comes to life at playtime, and being able to take the lead in child-led play ensures that they reap the benefits of play.
Many teachers would value more time in the classroom for play. While open-ended, child-led play is beneficial for children’s development, evidence suggests that guided play is also a great way to encourage learning through play. Guided play is the sweet spot where children take the lead in play and learn and explore situations for themselves, but adults play a critical role in identifying opportunities to support children’s learning goals, all while the children enjoy themselves. Finally, play can, and should, always be adapted to suit the needs of every child. For example, for those children who enjoy building LEGO models, being able to meet and play with other children who share a common interest in LEGO bricks is a brilliant way for them to form meaningful relationships with others, which reduces feelings of loneliness and anxiety. By providing safe, accepting spaces at school where pupils can play in a way that suits their natural style of communicating and socialising, schools are able to foster playful and fun experiences that develop children’s self-confidence and positively impact their wellbeing. With play declining, now is the time for schools to invest time and resources into facilitating more playful opportunities in order to support children’s social and emotional development.
Play Included has created a free activity for schools to use with their pupils. Download here:
https://shorturl.at/REUBq
Further playful activities for use in the classroom can be found here:
https://playincluded.com/en-GB/for-schools
www.education-today.co.uk 25
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