EdTech UK and the Joint Information Systems Committee (Jisc) have unveiled the Edtech 50 listing – celebrating the work of the education technology sector in the UK.
The initiative is intended to ‘shine a spotlight on those pioneering a new future in education through technology’.
The list, which you can read in full here, recognises products and projects demonstrating effective and impactful use of Edtech in the UK, along with individuals who have played a leading role in developing this area of work.
The organisations behind the projects and products include FE colleges, an online learning community and a university spin-out.
According to the government’s Digital Strategy, published in Feb 2017, education technology is one of the fastest growing sectors in the UK, accounting for 4% of all digital companies, and UK businesses have become world leaders in developing innovative new technologies for the education sector.
The Rt Hon Damian Hinds MP, secretary of state for education, writing in the Edtech50 launch report, said: “In 2017, we saw innovative, creative and exciting educational technology transform teaching and learning throughout the UK’s schools. From vlogging teachers to student wellbeing apps to an interactive book experience, schools, companies and technologists have pushed classrooms into the future and provided pupils with new tools for learning, interacting and living.”
Paul Feldman, chief executive of Jisc, said: “A former teacher with a mission to remove homework headaches, a headteacher who used digital technology to improve special educational needs teaching and an entrepreneur who creates STEM play experiences are among those named in the inaugural Edtech50. The Edtech50 show’s how education technology can be a catalytic force for digital innovation in teaching and learning.”
Ty Goddard, director of Edtech UK, said: “The Edtech50 has been chosen from a mixture of public nominations and the insight of our judging panel. It has been a challenging and exciting process. The Edtech50 helps us all celebrate a wonderful sector, whilst recognising the benefits of education technology, and acknowledging the economic advantages of the growing edtech sector to the whole UK economy.”
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