Harnessing Technology in Education

The Innovation Challenge

The technology sector is fast-paced and many people struggle to stay abreast of the latest development and innovations. The education sector is often slow to learn from other sectors and this is particularly true when it comes to technology. Currently, too few schools and colleges take full advantage of the benefits of ICT and there is a strong argument for all education institutions to make more of the available technology. The aim is that this would be achieved by intelligently applying technology so that it has a significant impact on attainment and overall learning outcomes, stimulating the imagination and creativity of learners. The Harnessing Technology Strategy aims to do just that.

Our Approach

This research, commissioned by Becta, looks at successful approaches taken in other sectors and markets, and identifies how similar benefits can be realised within education.

A key aspect of the research was focused on exploring the experiences of education professionals in undertaking innovation and the critical role played by their management of risk. It also investigated the circumstances that nurture an advantageous environment for innovation, focusing primarily on the 'business processes' (those that assist educators in their jobs but do not define their performance) employed to deliver a high quality education.

Outcomes

The research reveals that skilled leadership is the key to innovation. Innovation is encouraged through appropriate practices on three levels:

1. system level
2. institutional level
3. individual behaviour

At the institutional level, it identifies eight specific practices, driven by a strong leadership agenda, which supports risk-taking and innovation:

• Managerial passion and support for innovation
• Sharing of responsibility for innovation
• Encouragement and management of risk-taking
• Capitalising on the teaching ethic
• Commitment of resources for innovation
• Investment in relationships
• Promotion of cross-discipline working
• Creation of appropriate physical environments

Project contacts

Please contact This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it  for more information.