Benefits of technology in education

Technology can support education through more targeted practice, faster assessment, accessible learning materials and flexible ways to study. However, introducing a digital tool does not automatically improve learning: its value depends on the educational need it addresses and how effectively it is used.

Here, we look at the key role of technology and how it benefits the education sector.

What exactly is Education Technology (EdTech)?

Educational technology, often shortened to EdTech, refers to the tools, software and digital systems used to support teaching, learning, assessment and educational administration. Think of it as a toolkit designed to empower both students and teachers. With EdTech, classrooms transform into interactive spaces where learning is more engaging and personalised. Importantly, it doesn’t replace teachers; instead, it amplifies their ability to connect with students, making education smarter, more adaptable, and a whole lot more exciting.

How can technology improve education?

Every child learns in their own unique way. Some thrive with visual aids, while others grasp concepts better through hands-on activities or auditory cues. Technology has the flexibility to cater to these varying learning styles, making education more inclusive.

With tools like interactive apps, video tutorials, and virtual simulations, students can engage with materials in ways that suit them best. This personalised approach not only boosts understanding but also makes learning far more enjoyable and accessible for everyone.

Beyond personalising learning experiences, technology opens doors to countless resources, from e-books to interactive lessons, which are just a click away. Tools like Google Classroom foster collaboration and allow communication to flow freely between students and teachers. Importantly, technology also helps students develop essential skills like digital literacy and problem-solving, preparing them for the future. Moreover, e-learning offers flexibility, enabling students to learn at their own pace, making education more accessible for all.

The benefits of technology in education

1. More targeted practice and support

Digital tools can support the quality and quantity of pupils’ practice, giving teachers another way to reinforce learning and respond to gaps in understanding.

For example, a maths platform could identify repeated errors in a particular type of question and offer additional practice. The teacher could then review those responses and decide whether the pupil needs a different explanation or further support.

This should not be confused with matching teaching to fixed “visual”, “auditory” or other learning styles. The Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) finds insufficient evidence for this approach and cautions against labelling pupils by a supposed learning style. Prior knowledge, barriers to learning and assessment provide more useful starting points

2. Engagement

From digital learning tools to social media, smartboards to AR, technology is playing a vital role to make classes livelier and increase student engagement.

Not only does technology increase engagement, add variety to lessons for students and increase delivery options for teachers, but these tools can also provide a fun, more inclusive learning environment and encourage collaboration within the class.

3. Motivation

Teachers are faced with a constant challenge to deliver the required curriculum to their students in a stimulating way that keeps pupils on task and motivated. A good way to do this is for students to have fun whilst learning.

Educational technology provides a fun and stimulating opportunity for students while they are learning, which will also assist them with staying motivated in the classroom and at home.

4. Learning needs

With students having access to a wide array of educational technology at their fingertips, they can choose a platform, device or tool that is best suited to their individual learning needs. This gives students a choice and enables them to select a type of tech that is going to best suit them, their preferred learning style and the way in which they like teaching to be delivered.

5. Productivity

Embracing technology in learning offers a range of advantages that enhance student productivity. For example, the increased engagement that comes with using technology, and having access to endless resources, has been shown to improve learning outcomes and efficiency. Technology also empowers educators and teachers with tools to engage students effectively, easily grant access to resources, and streamline administrative tasks. As a result, the education landscape has seen heightened productivity with students investing more time in meaningful learning pursuits rather than logistical hurdles.

Explore recent innovations in the scientific and technical sectors.

The variety of educational technology available to teachers is vast.

6. Broadening skills and knowledge

Acquiring new knowledge and learning new things are vital life skills. The use of educational technology enables learners to use tools and online programs to develop their knowledge and acquire new skills, all of which will be useful for future study, career paths and life.

7. Accessibility

At the click of a button, tap of a mouse or voice command to a device, students can gain access to the required information with speed, ease and accuracy.

Easy access to information is key in education, allowing students exposure to data and the ability to immerse themselves in user-friendly information to help them succeed.

8. Teaching methods

The variety of educational technology available to teachers is vast. Not only does this add variety to lesson plans, but it assists staff to give a rich, diverse mixture of cutting-edge teaching delivery in a positive and engaging setting.

How is AI being used in education?

Generative AI can assist with drafting lesson resources, suggesting activities and preparing material for teachers to review. These teacher-facing uses should be distinguished from pupils using AI directly.

The Department for Education identifies potential applications in planning, feedback and administration, while noting that evidence about effects on learners’ development and educational outcomes remains limited. AI-generated content can also be inaccurate, biased or inappropriate.

Professional review is therefore essential. Teachers need to check whether an output is correct, suitable for the pupils and relevant to the curriculum. Pupil-facing uses require additional consideration of supervision, age restrictions, safeguarding and data protection.

What are the limitations of technology in education?

The benefits are not automatic. UNESCO’s 2023 Global Education Monitoring Report highlights the importance of access, teacher preparation and appropriate governance, alongside limitations in the independent evidence supporting many educational technology products.

Before introducing a new tool, schools should consider three practical questions:

• Can everyone use it? Consider access to suitable devices and connectivity, alongside accessibility requirements.
• What will implementation involve? Assess training, staff time, ongoing costs and the support needed to use the tool effectively.
• How will its value be tested? Decide what improvement is expected and what evidence would demonstrate it.

For AI tools, this assessment also needs to address accuracy and the handling of personal information. The Department for Education recommends avoiding personal data in generative AI tools unless its use is strictly necessary and appropriate protections are in place.