UK Government Launches Edtech Testbed Pilot to Cut Teacher Workload
The UK government has announced a new pilot scheme aimed at reducing teacher workload through the use of educational technology (edtech). The Department for Education (DfE) is inviting schools, colleges, and training providers to become edtech "testbeds" to help identify and evaluate innovative technologies that can enhance teaching and learning.
According to a report by FE Week, the nine-month pilot will "build the evidence base on the impact and scalability of promising technologies" [1]. The government hopes to identify tools that can reduce teacher and administrative workload, improve pupil outcomes, and boost inclusion for children with special educational needs and disability (SEND).
The pilot, known as the "edtech impact testbed pilot," will test tools that aim to reduce teacher workload, improve pupil outcomes, and boost inclusion for children with SEND. Participating schools and colleges will receive training and support to effectively implement and use the systems, and will be able to connect with other institutions. Those trialling the software will "be able to access a set of benefits," although the exact nature of these benefits is not specified.
As FE Week reports, the government expects up to 100 education providers to take part in the pilot, and is inviting applications from all primaries and secondaries, special schools, and FE providers [1]. The application process is now open, and expressions of interest must be submitted by August.
In addition to the pilot scheme, the government has also announced a further £1 million investment in AI firms to fund the development of classroom tools. This brings the total investment in AI marking and feedback systems to £2 million, following a £1 million investment earlier this year in 16 firms.
National Association of Headteachers general secretary Paul Whiteman welcomed the government’s investment in future testing and research, saying that "staff need reliable sources of evaluation – supported with evidence – on the benefits, limitations and risks of AI tools and their potential uses" [1].
The government has also published teacher and leader toolkits detailing how to use AI in schools and colleges. These toolkits aim to provide educators with guidance on the effective use of AI in the classroom, and to help them make informed decisions about which technologies to use.
The edtech testbed pilot is part of a broader innovation drive aimed at improving education outcomes through the use of technology. As the government continues to invest in edtech, it is likely that we will see a growing emphasis on the use of technology to support teaching and learning in schools and colleges.
In conclusion, the UK government’s edtech testbed pilot is an important initiative aimed at reducing teacher workload and improving education outcomes through the use of technology. By providing schools and colleges with the opportunity to trial innovative edtech solutions, the government hopes to build an evidence base on the impact and scalability of promising technologies.
References:
[1] FE Week, "FE providers wanted to become edtech testbeds", available at: https://feweek.co.uk/fe-providers-wanted-to-become-edtech-testbeds/
