A significant majority of school leaders and teachers say that adapting to teaching amid the coronavirus pandemic has left them feeling more confident about using edtech, according to new research.
Almost two-thirds (65%) of respondents to a survey commissioned by educational software producers Renaissance said they felt happier about using the technology.
Moreover, 75% expect that the post-lockdown world will continue to find a role for online or blended learning in education.
Although the survey* sample was relatively small, most of those asked to predict the future were people with the power to shape it; of the 598 respondents, 56% were headteachers, while deputy or department heads accounted for 17% and 11% were teachers.
“We have been so impressed by how quickly pupils, teachers and schools have adapted to these exceptional times,” said Margaret Allen, curriculum and education specialist at Renaissance.
“No technology can replace the role of a teacher in a classroom, but it can help teachers to enhance the educational experience for their pupils, and effectively and consistently track their progress.”
The survey also asked respondents to name the biggest challenge that teaching would face during a phased return to the classroom; 31% said consistent communication, with 23% citing the mental health and wellbeing of pupils.
When asked to name the single biggest factor determining learning achievement during lockdown, 34% cited parental input, a quarter said teacher feedback and 16% thought being able to set tailored work.
*The online survey was carried out with primary and secondary schools across the UK and Ireland during 5-23 June.
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