Basic school computer use fails to prepare students for work: Can AR history lessons change that?

General use of a computer in school alone does not aid the digital literacy of students, according to a recent report by the Nuffield Foundation. The report states that how computers are used is more important than if they are used. There is no universally shared idea of what effective teaching of digital skills looks like and many teachers are without access to opportunities to develop their own digital knowledge. As a result, many young people are unprepared for a world of work that is centred around emerging technologies.

Making technology a compulsory subject and integrating it throughout the curriculum is a strong step that can be taken to remedy this, according to Lucy Manole, who wrote in The Educator last week. Changing government policy and integrating technologies such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) into subjects like science, maths and english would grip the attention of students in the classroom and give them an idea of what technology is available. Manole writes, ‘Soon, the students may well be holding their devices over their history books and experience first-hand what transpired during the American war of independence and the civil rights’ movement. That’s how pervasive the effect of AR would be.’ She also recommended training teachers up to be tech-savvy and allowing students to collaborate and socialise on online platforms to boost skills like self-directed learning and development of interpersonal and networking skills.

Growing up digital (Institute for Effective Education) How to prepare students for the digital world? (The Educator)

Why should this matter to me?

In order to achieve a improved digital education, schools will first need the materials to provide it. This will include digital hardware; such as computers, VR headsets and accessories. Schools will also need digital software, like in the recommendations above, for online platforms and AR apps. Finally, schools will need the means to train their staff to be tech-savvy, which can be done through online courses or training sessions.