Digital tools can create engaging and interactive learning experiences as they give learners real time feedback for their work. Rewards and features built into digital tools can encourage learners to keep trying even when work is challenging. As there is no writing involved, pupils can often answer questions more quickly using digital tools, which leads to more practice opportunities. Also, in game based learning, pupils are used to failing (e.g., Super Mario), so will often persist with their efforts for longer than they would with an unplugged task.
School Self Evaluation is a process through which teachers identify a focus for improvement within their school, gather evidence, analyse this evidence and make judgements based on it. This is then used to write an improvement plan. Once the plan is actioned, teachers and the in school management team wait and monitor how effective the actions have been, making adjustments as necessary. This process could be undertaken to improve effective use of technology in a school. Developing the use of digital technology enhances pupils communication, collaboration, critical thinking and problem solving skills. As the Digital Strategy for schools aligns with the goals of STEM education, supports digital skills to foster creativity and provides a framework to integrate ICT skills into education, it would be useful to select digital skills for school self-evaluation prior to 2025-26 when STEM will become a defined area of the primary school curriculum. Doing this would allow schools to review the equipment they have, and make informed decisions about CPD and purchasing new technology before the new curriculum comes into effect.