Written by Karen | 12/01/16 00:00
Fluidata are standing at the BETT Show 2016 from 20-23 January. Come and say hello at stand E272. You can find out more information here.
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Internet access is an essential part of modern education that goes well beyond occasionally checking emails or a casual Google search.
Modern learning is increasingly reliant on web access as it adapts to a generation that is perpetually online and dependent upon connectivity. Schools themselves run entire back office systems through the cloud, making reliable broadband a priority.
This means individual schools need the ability to choose their internet service provider (ISP), allowing them to select the one that best suits their specific needs. Not all schools are the same and therefore what is best for one will not be best for all. Each school needs the capacity to tailor services to specific buildings, or even certain classrooms.
Today’s classrooms rely on web access for a wider range of uses than ever before.
Cloud communications can greatly benefit teachers, such as the use of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) which is a great way for teachers to manage their phone line. As they are rarely available to answer their work phones due to classes and other commitments, a service that sends the teacher an email message when they have missed a call makes teachers more accessible and improves communications.
For decades now, schools have used educational gameplay as an effective learning tool. Many video games are designed to help develop key skills and game developers have created specifically tailored educational tools for use within schools. These types of games can also be an effective medium for collaborative learning as they are able to promote and develop teamwork while encouraging learning in a way that is both fun and interactive. However, these games tend to require players to have a strong and reliable internet connection – one that won’t go on the fritz at a key moment.
Recently, the UK Government made coding part of the core curriculum, recognising computers, and the internet as essential parts of learning across most subjects. With this in mind, ISPs need to focus on how they can provide the best service and support for each individual school they work with. Their goal needs to be to create something that supports teachers and makes their roles easier, giving them the tools they need to make learning engaging and inspiring.