New strategy on the use of digital learning for learning approved
A new strategy to determine how digital learning and teaching is delivered in East Lothian’s schools has been approved today (21 March 2023) at a meeting of the council’s Education Committee.
Councillors heard that the Covid-19 pandemic had accelerated the use of digital technology for learning and highlighted that further support for staff and students was needed on the return to schools to build on this good work.
The East Lothian Council Digital Learning and Teaching Strategy 2022-27 was created following extensive consultation with school leaders, IT, early years and education staff. It focuses on four priority areas that will help the authority use digital technologies to raise attainment, ambition and opportunities for all. These are:
- Increase digital literacy of staff, maximising support and development opportunities
- Improve IT infrastructure including bandwidth connectivity
- Support children and young people with digital learning and teaching in a way that meets their individual needs
- Maximise the use of online distance learning opportunities and partnerships.
The strategy recognises that appropriate and effective use of digital technology within education provides learners with the opportunity to improve educational outcomes and develop skills that are vital for life, learning and work in today’s increasingly digitised world.
Cabinet member for Education and Children’s and Family Services Councillor Fiona Dugdale said: “The rapid move to online learning during the pandemic saw a seismic shift in how digital technologies were embraced by educators and accessed by learners. We want to harness these experiences and drive forward further improvements that will help all of our children and young people reach their potential, whatever stage of school they are at.
“Technology is rapidly-changing which is why it is so important that we have a clear vision of what we are trying to achieve, how we embed the best practice within our schools, and how we will know if we’re succeeding. The digital strategy is clearly linked to our Raising Attainment and Inclusion work which demonstrates technology’s central role in these areas. From increasing bandwidth infrastructure to supporting our staff to further their skills and become confident digital leaders, we believe that these measures and maintaining a strong focus on digital learning will benefit pupils now and in the future.”