New Term, New Tech: Top 10 Ways to Make the Most of E-Learning in Schools

A new term calls for new beginnings - and what better way to kick off the academic year than to evaluate your school’s e-learning approach?

While digital tools have the potential to transform learning experiences for the better, teachers and students don’t always know how to use them most effectively. Schools may also face significant barriers both inside and outside the classroom; access to multiple devices, unclear AI use policies in their organisation, and a general lack of confidence in ICT strategy.

However, once schools and MATs unlock the potential of tech in teaching, the possibilities are endless.

In this blog, we’ll explore how educators can make the most of e-learning in schools this term. 

1. Don't be afraid to integrate AI

If you haven’t already begun integrating AI into your tech tools, the beginning of a fresh term may be the perfect time to start. 

Rather than being regarded as a quick fix that strips young minds of their imagination, motivation and hard work, software such as ChatGPT should instead be recognised as an enhancement tool to reinforce these crucial qualities. When it comes to essays and assessments, it gives students more time to focus on exploring concepts and honing their ideas by simplifying ‘the boring bits’. This can lead to growth in student performance and instil a sense of confidence in pupils who have bright ideas but may struggle to articulate them. 

Additionally, with the ability to provide targeted feedback and identify areas that warrant improvement, AI can advantage teachers by relieving them of administrative responsibilities and granting them more time to allocate to their pupils. 

Examples of AI-integrated software that may be used in educational settings include:

• Gemini Education
• Microsoft Copilot
• Century Tech
• Sparx
• Firefly Learning
• Scribeasy
• 360Learning

With AI in education here to stay, it’s better to get your head around it sooner rather than later…

2. Embrace gamification

After weeks spent away from the classroom, ensuring children are switched on and motivated to learn is a top priority for many educators - and gamification is a great way to assist with this.

Gamification involves the application of game-design elements in non-game contexts - in this instance, education - such as challenges, badges, points, levels, and accompanying feelings of excitement and accomplishment. Through competition and teamwork, advocates of gamification argue children display greater levels of motivation, creativity and engagement. 

Gamification has largely embodied a digital approach during the modern era. From VR to online quizzes, interactive software and websites often serve as reliable tools to keep children immersed.

If you’re stuck for new ideas, here are some common examples that you’re likely to come across in most schools:

• Kahoot! - a competitive game-based learning platform that allows teachers to create quizzes, surveys, and discussion prompts. Students participate using their devices, earning points for correct answers and speed. 
• Classcraft - this software transforms the classroom into a role-playing game where students take on different roles, such as warriors, mages, and healers. They earn points for positive behaviours and academic achievements, which they can use to gain privileges or help their team. 
• Duolingo - a popular app that gamifies language learning by incorporating levels, points, and streaks into its lessons, Duolingo enjoys worldwide success. Users complete language exercises to earn rewards and progress through different stages. 
• Minecraft: Education Edition uses the popular game Minecraft as an educational tool. Teachers can create immersive lessons in subjects like maths, history, and science, where students solve problems and complete projects within the game’s virtual world. 
• Quizizz is another platform for creating and playing quizzes. It allows students to compete against each other in real-time or at their own pace. Teachers can also track progress and identify areas where students need additional support.

3. Give new technologies a go

The start of a new academic year may involve the strenuous task of introducing complex concepts to a bunch of restless students - and this is where a fresh approach may be beneficial. 

Newer technologies, such as AR and VR, are perfect candidates for keeping classes engaged. Since their introduction to schools around ten years ago, they are rapidly becoming an integral part of education, offering immersive and engaging learning experiences.

VR allows students to experience historical events, explore the human body, or travel to distant lands, all within a safe and controlled environment. Students can use VR headsets to experience a virtual tour of the ancient Roman Colosseum, or they can even explore the inside of a human heart. Similarly, AR technology overlays digital information onto the real world, creating an interactive and engaging learning experience. For example, location-based AR can be used during field trips, outdoor learning activities, and geography lessons, providing students with real-time information about their surroundings and enhancing their understanding of the world. 

The immersive nature of these technologies can bolster understanding and increase student motivation - after all, students are more likely to remember information they have learned through virtual experiences due to active participation in the learning process. In fact, studies have shown that compared to traditional classroom learners, VR learners completed courses 4 times faster, were 4 times more focused, and were 3.75 times more emotionally connected to the content.

It’s worth noting that due to its increasing popularity, the costs of VR/AR technology is decreasing - making these immersive tools more affordable for all.

4. Promote digital literacy

In today's digital age, having strong digital literacy skills is essential for both staff and students in overcoming challenges of the online world. From collaborating on spreadsheets to protecting your personal data, the concept of digital literacy encompasses navigating, understanding, and using digital technologies effectively.

A decade on from the launch of the Computing curriculum in England, of which digital literacy forms one of the foundational pillars, digital literacy levels amongst staff and students in schools remain variable. 

With misinformation, online scams and cyber threats on the rise, it’s clear that strong digital skills are integral to personal and professional development. 

This term, placing an emphasis on teaching digital literacy skills could help:

• Empower students - equipping students with digital skills enhances their ability to learn independently and access a wealth of information and resources.
• Workforce readiness - in an increasingly digital job market, proficiency with technology is a key asset. Digital literacy prepares students for diverse career paths and opportunities.
• Critical thinking - understanding how to evaluate online information critically is essential. Digital literacy fosters critical thinking and informed decision-making.
• Inclusive learning - digital tools can make education more inclusive, offering personalised learning experiences and reaching students with different learning needs and styles.

5. Focus on inclusivity and accessibility 

One of the greatest benefits of e-learning is its potential to create an inclusive learning environment for all students, regardless of ability. However, to truly capitalise on this potential, schools must work to ensure that e-learning tools are accessible to everyone. Digital Accessibility, a core Standard within the DfE Digital Technology Standards, refers to the ability of people with disabilities/impairments to independently consume and/or interact with digital applications and content. It’s important to ensure this standard is met when it comes to using tech in the classroom.

When reviewing your teaching material for the autumn term, consider:

• Providing captions or transcripts for video content
• Ensuring platforms are compatible with screen readers
• Offering multiple ways to engage with learning materials, such as audio lessons or visual aids
• Compliance with standards such as Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 can help guide any of your online learning platform content

It’s worth noting emerging tech, such as AR and VR, helps provide equal opportunities for students with disabilities, allowing them to participate in experiences that might otherwise be inaccessible. For instance, students with mobility issues can experience the thrill of climbing Mount Everest in a virtual environment. With SEND students often facing barriers within the classroom, this is just one step towards achieving greater equality in the education system. 

This ensures that all students, including those with disabilities, can fully participate in and benefit from e-learning.

6. Update your tech

• Hardware - ensure students and teachers have access to modern laptops or tablets, equipped with cameras and microphones for online lessons.
• Software - regularly update educational platforms and apps to take advantage of new features, better security, and improved user experiences.
• Wi-Fi and networking - a strong, high-speed internet connection across school premises is critical for uninterrupted digital learning.

7. Invest in cloud computing

From providing a platform to store and access learning resources to streamlining administrative tasks, cloud computing helps schools of all kinds function on a daily basis. 

‘Cloud computing’ is a broad term, but this can present itself in many different forms:

• Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) - IaaS provides virtualised computing resources over the internet. Schools can rent virtual machines, storage, and networking components, allowing them to build and manage their own IT infrastructure without the need for physical hardware.
• Platform as a Service (PaaS) - PaaS offers a platform for developing, testing, and deploying applications. It provides a framework that developers can build upon, reducing the complexity of managing hardware and software layers.
• Software as a Service (SaaS) - SaaS delivers software applications over the internet on a subscription basis. Common examples include Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, and learning management systems like Canvas and Blackboard. 

Investing in cloud computing not only improves accessibility and ease of use, but also serves as a reliable storage option. If you’re unsure of where to start when it comes to selecting a cloud computing choice for your school, check out our extensive guide here.

8. Opt for collaborative platforms

As students begin to consume new content this term, discussion and debate is a great way to solidify learning and flesh out different interpretations. E-learning tools offer plenty of options to encourage collaboration among students, even when they are not physically together. Platforms like Google Classroom, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom enable students to work on group projects, exchange ideas, and participate in discussions in real time.

Through these digital tools, educators will be able to:

• Assign group projects that require students to work together online.
• Set up virtual study groups where students can meet outside of class hours.
• Use discussion boards and forums to facilitate ongoing conversations and peer support.
• Ensure students are able to work together effortlessly, regardless of their physical location. They’ll be able to access specific files simultaneously, making group work more efficient.

9. Provide teacher training and support

While students are often digital natives, teachers may require additional support to fully harness the power of e-learning. Remember - there’s no point having all the latest tech if no one is able to use it properly! To get the most out of e-learning tools this autumn, schools need to prioritise professional development and training for their staff.

To make sure everyone is feeling capable and confident with digital devices, why not offer:

• Regular workshops on new digital tools and teaching strategies
• Access to online tutorials or webinars
• Continuous tech support to help troubleshoot issues during lessons

An educational ICT consultancy should ideally provide comprehensive training for your staff and ongoing support to ensure they can effectively use and manage new systems - which leads us on to our next point…

10. Partner with a reliable ICT in education consultancy

To make the most of e-learning in your school this autumn term, you need the full support of experienced ICT in education experts. 

A forward-thinking ICT consultancy will:

• Have a developed vision for the future of ICT in education
• Stay up-to-date with technological advancements
• Be proactive in suggesting new solutions

If you think your tech could do with an overhaul this term, Novatia can help. We offer flexible and comprehensive ICT advice to schools and MAT leaders through our ICT Consultancy and Advice Service. 

To find out more about the services we provide, please get in touch today.