7 Game-Changing Insights from the Latest UK Technology in Schools Survey

The landscape of education is rapidly evolving, driven in large part by the integration of digital technologies. To better understand this transformation, the 2023 Technology in Schools Survey was conducted, offering a comprehensive look into how technology is being utilized across UK schools. This extensive survey, carried out by the Department for Education (DfE), involved detailed responses from various schools, including primary, secondary, and academic institutions. It provides critical insights into the current state of technology adoption, the challenges schools face, and the opportunities for future advancements.

For Multi Academy Trust Leaders and School Tech Leaders, the findings from this survey are invaluable, shedding light on the strategic actions needed to leverage technology for enhanced educational outcomes. The Quizalize team has created an article detailing the top seven insights you need to know from this pivotal research.

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1. The Rise of Digital Strategy Adoption

Education technology (EdTech) encompasses the use of technology to enhance teaching, learning, and the efficient management of educational institutions and their operations. It involves the implementation of infrastructure, hardware, software, and services designed to support instructional activities and the everyday functions of schools and other educational entities.

In recent years, there’s been a marked increase in the number of schools implementing digital strategies. The survey reveals that more schools than ever before have recognized the importance of strategic planning in integrating technology into their educational frameworks. This shift highlights a growing awareness of how structured, long-term planning can optimize the use of digital tools, ensuring they contribute effectively to teaching and learning processes.

Indicative comparison shows that more schools have a digital strategy in place in 2023 compared with 2020-21, increasing from 54% to 68% of secondary schools and from 38% to 55% of primary schools.

Schools with a clear digital strategy are better positioned to navigate the complexities of modern education, utilizing technology to enhance both administrative efficiency and educational delivery. The trend toward widespread adoption of digital strategies signifies a crucial step forward in embedding technology within the educational landscape.

2. The Impact of Technology on Education

The integration of technology in schools is yielding positive results across various dimensions. The survey underscores how technology supports a range of efficiencies in school operations, fosters inclusive teaching practices, and enhances pupil outcomes. Technology has become an indispensable part of daily school life, streamlining administrative tasks and enriching the educational experience.

From facilitating interactive learning to providing real-time feedback, digital tools are making significant contributions to student engagement and achievement. This impact is especially notable in areas such as personalised learning, where technology enables tailored educational experiences that cater to individual student needs and learning paces.

Views of school leaders and teachers on the future relationship between technology and pupil attainment over the next three academic years (Leaders and Teachers):

3. Increased Funding and Investment

Recognizing the critical role of technology in education, the Department for Education (DfE) has ramped up funding to support schools in upgrading their digital infrastructure. The survey reports a substantial increase in funding, from £150 million to £200 million, directed towards helping schools in priority areas enhance their connectivity and meet new digital and technology standards.

This investment is pivotal in ensuring that schools have the necessary infrastructure to fully harness the potential of modern digital technology. With improved connectivity and updated technological resources, schools can provide a more robust and dynamic learning environment for students.

4. Barriers to Effective Technology Implementation

Despite the positive strides, the survey identifies several challenges that hinder the effective implementation of technology in schools. Some schools report that their current technology does not adequately meet their needs, citing issues such as affordability and procurement difficulties. Moreover, there is a need for better support for specific groups of pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Barriers to increased uptake of technology by schools (Leaders)

Addressing these barriers requires a multifaceted approach, including increased funding, streamlined procurement processes, and targeted support initiatives. By overcoming these obstacles, schools can ensure that their technological investments translate into tangible educational benefits.

5. Emphasis on Cyber Security and Training

With the growing reliance on digital tools, cyber security has become a top priority for schools. The survey highlights an uptick in cyber security training for staff, reflecting a proactive stance towards safeguarding digital environments. However, there remains a pressing need for more comprehensive training, particularly in primary Local Authority (LA) maintained schools, which are less likely to have received such training compared to secondary and academy schools.

Ensuring robust cyber security measures is essential for protecting sensitive data and maintaining the integrity of educational systems. Comprehensive training programs can equip staff with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate and mitigate potential cyber threats.

Incidence of fraudulent activities experiences in schools (IT leads)

6. Rising Use of Assistive Technologies

The survey points to an encouraging increase in the use of assistive technologies to support diverse learning needs. Schools are becoming more aware of the importance of accessibility features, and implementing tools and technologies that aid pupils with different learning requirements.

Assistive technologies play a crucial role in fostering an inclusive educational environment, where all students have the opportunity to succeed. By integrating these technologies, schools can provide tailored support that enhances learning outcomes for pupils with special needs, ensuring that no student is left behind.

Teaching-related activities schools or trusts have plans to invest in in the next 3 years (leaders)

7. Decision-Making and Support Needs

Effective decision-making around technology adoption and implementation remains a critical area of focus. The survey indicates a need for more support and guidance, particularly for primary LA-maintained schools, which often make investment decisions at the school level but have less in-house technical support.

Providing schools with the necessary resources and expertise to make informed decisions about technology investments is vital. This support can come in the form of advisory services, training programs, and access to best practices, helping schools navigate the complexities of educational technology.

Conclusion

The 2023 Technology in Schools Survey presents a comprehensive overview of the current state of digital technology in UK schools. With significant progress in areas such as digital strategy adoption, funding, and the use of assistive technologies, schools are well on their way to creating more dynamic and inclusive learning environments. However, challenges remain, particularly in terms of affordability, training, and cyber security, which must be addressed to ensure all schools can fully leverage technology for educational success.

Solution for MATs & Schools

Quizalize, powered by Zzish, is a British EdTech company that provides educators with epic whole-class quiz games, smart quizzes with built-in personalisation, and instant mastery data that helps schools and educators address learning loss in every student.

With over 10 years of experience and more than 1 million registered teachers and students, Quizalize has assisted Multi Academy Trusts (MATs) and schools worldwide in implementing the essential tech tools needed to achieve outstanding results, all without exhausting your budget.

If you’re a MAT or School in the UK, we also provide an exclusive 2-week Pilot Program. You can check the Stour Academy Trusts case study here.