Our latest thought leadership piece centred around the theme of digital learning as part of an outstanding holistic education, is shared by Andy Perryer, Head of Digital Learning in the Middle East.

Welcome to 2024! Get ready, we’re going to dive into the top 150 EdTech trends of the year and discover why every teacher should use them.

Just kidding. 🫠

It’s a sad irony for those receiving the yearly ‘trends of the year’ lists. The promises of virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and gamification have remained on repeat on these lists for years. However, if you peek into the nearest classroom, their meaningful adoption remains limited. Amongst practical obstacles including infrastructure challenges and teacher training, there is a tendency to overlook the need for a thorough assessment of the impact of these technologies on learning outcomes and the student experience.

Unlike many of our shortlisted entries that linger in the realm of theory for most, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has swiftly transitioned into an – often free – practical tool with transformational consequences. However, integrating AI into education is not easy. It involves aligning with a school’s educational goals, as well as keenly considering its impact on both student learning and teacher roles. The true test of any digital learning device, including AI, is its ability to enhance the learning experience and promote the essential social characteristics of education.

This alignment begins with a basic question: “Why?” Or, with a bit more explanation, “Why should we be making use of this technology?” Any digital tool, policy, or method in education should be designed to enhance learning, regardless of whether it is improving the student experience, customising content, or allowing for a better comprehension of complicated ideas. The potential for AI to revolutionise educational practice is vast, but its implementation should be guided by pedagogical considerations first.

In the same vein, we wouldn’t trust a doctor who enthusiastically declares:“I found the top 10 latest ways to do knee surgery on LinkedIn, and for you, Mr Perryer, I think I’ll try number 7 today. Now hop on the operating table, there’s a good chap.” Therefore, the inclusion of how AI supports a school’s curriculum must be meaningful, efficient, and in line with the school’s educational principles and strategy. Teachers play a key role in helping to achieve this. Leaders should provide opportunities for teachers not only to develop AI skills but also the know-how to blend AI tools into their teaching to supplement and augment the already fantastic learning happening in their classrooms. This mandates ongoing guidance and training so that teachers can use AI adeptly and confidently as an asset in their educational toolkit. 

Recognising the unique challenges and opportunities that AI presents in education, Cognita has developed its own AI framework and toolkit. This toolkit is designed to support all practitioners in harnessing the most impactful aspects of assistive generative AI in their teaching and learning experience. We believe that through thoughtful integration and application, AI can make a significant contribution to the effectiveness and richness of education. 

We know that the digital tools used to support teaching and learning will always evolve and change over time. It’s important to remember that while the hype train (choo choo!) for the latest and greatest touted technologies will have long departed, we don’t have to chase it at the expense of our educational integrity. The integration of AI and other technologies into education is not a race to follow trends, but a considerate journey based on understanding and careful implementation. 

Let’s end with an easy-to-say, challenging-to-do statement: we should mix enthusiasm and pragmatism when integrating digital learning tools such as AI. As we move at our own pace, we will guarantee that the technological advancements we welcome enhance our educational delivery, boost the student experience, and help them thrive in a rapidly evolving world.  

Valeria Capetillo, Digital Learning Advisor in Chile, has shared an additional example from within her regional context, addressing the significance of robotics programming in Early Years Education. This example demonstrates the importance of fostering curiosity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills from a young age.

In this context, beyond following the latest technological trend, it is essential to foster curiosity and a deep understanding of the surrounding environment. The programming of robots extends beyond mere instructions; it drives an understanding of the physical and digital world. Picture a captivating scenario where different groups of Kindergarten students from Colegio Manquecura Valle Lo Campino in Chile actively engage in peer-to-peer robot programming. This not only promotes technological understanding but also stimulates social and collaborative skills from an early age. The project was showcased at student roundtables during “School of the Future” 2023, a global conference for Cognita teams focused on education & technology, this project allowed children to become acquainted with fundamental concepts and develop key skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability; all crucial in the 21st century.

Given that domestic robots are already a reality, what better way to prepare children to comprehend and interact with their environment? Genuine digital literacy involves empowering students to understand not only technology but also its societal impact. From grasping the functioning of robots at home to learning to use emerging technologies ethically and responsibly, holistic education enables us to shape individuals who use technology to enhance the world around them. This early and active understanding of the technological environment prepares students to consciously utilise Artificial Intelligence and other emerging technologies, emphasising the importance of being informed and ethical users in an increasingly digital world.