The influence of AI in EdTech appeared to be a key feature throughout the week. Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, echoed this in her keynote address, emphasising AI's potential to reduce teacher workload and significantly accelerate student attainment – something all educators are striving for. I was amazed by the figures of how transformational the right tech can be for students: ‘When used effectively digital technology can accelerate learning by 2 to 3 months’ (The Education Endowment Foundation).  

With Christine Mayers as my guide, we visited many stands and talks.  

Some highlights for me:

• Google Gemini Workshop: We experienced the workload reducing benefits of Google Gemini firsthand. By using it to plan a school trip, creating a newsletter and conducting a risk assessment, all within 20 minutes. Then, we embarked on a series of geography-themed tasks, presenting our findings using Google Vids. This demonstrated the potential for content creation, ideas for end of unit projects as well as a catch-up tool for absent pupils.  

• Daren White’s AI Revolution talk: He showcased how AI can revolutionise teaching and learning: from supporting knowledge retention through dual coding, instant translation tools for English Language Learners, to making lessons more accessible and creative by learning audibly via podcasts. The potential and possibilities for AI to enhance learning outcomes is endless.  

Here Christine had a quick chat with Daren after his talk, where he highlights the importance of students getting hands on and having a go:

• Trying out ActiveFloor: This interactive technology challenges the traditional, static learning. Allowing students to actively engage in a virtual PE lesson, racing to solve maths problems on the floor, or collaborating on a geography activity by completing a virtual bridge using a ball?! It was great to explore how lessons can be made into active, fun and engaging experiences.

Here I am becoming the student and trying out ActiveFloor’s SPORTsWall:  

My key takeaway is the importance of educators embracing technology and equipping themselves with the necessary skills and knowledge. Having the confidence to make the most of the tech you have is essential and can be easily achieved through the right training.  

Elementary Technology is here to support you on this journey. Whether you need support in maximising the potential of your tech or require training on new tools and platforms, we are here to help.

Or if you’d like a catch up directly about how we can help you make more of technology – whether training, ideas, advice or just a chat - please get in touch!

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Author:

Olivia Sullivan o.sullivan@elementaryuk.com