Parents encouraged to get up to speed with classroom tech

Parents feel technology helps their children learn, but don't understand how, a new study has found.

The research, carried out by John Lewis, found 69% of parents think technology has improved their children's progress at school, but 41% don't fully understand how it is used in the classroom.

Despite this, 67% of those surveyed said they were willing to invest in devices for their children.

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Children need 'parents' support' on classroom tech

Children will 'get even more out' of technology in the classroom if their parents support them, according to an education technology specialist.

Drew Buddie, senior vice chairman at Naace, the association for the UK's education technology community, made the remark as a new study by retailer John Lewis revealed 69% of parents think technology helps their children learn, but 41% don't fully understand how it is used in the classroom.

The use of mobile digital technologies in the classroom might be largely unfamiliar to parents, but the benefits can be huge.

It's not about just shifting traditional lessons onto screens - it's about allowing pupils to make use of their devices to truly enhance their learning while giving teachers better ways to track individual achievement and personalise lessons.

It's certainly different from what today's mums and dads did in school, but it's also not as complicated as they might think.

Children have always benefited from their parents' support on school work, so by learning about the technology involved in today's lessons they can help their child get even more out of it.

– Drew Buddie

41% of parents 'uncomfortable with classroom tech'

41% of parents don't fully understand how technology is used in classrooms, a new study has found. Credit: PA

Many parents struggle to understand the technology used in classrooms, hindering their ability to support their children's learning, according to new research.

A survey by John Lewis has found 41% of parents do not feel comfortable with the technology being used to help their children learn, though 69% do think it has a positive effect.

The retailer has been running technology clinics with parents and teachers to try and bring those who didn't grow up with smartphones and tablets up to speed with those who have.

By understanding how devices are used in the classroom, John Lewis hopes the 67% of parents willing to invest in technology for their children will be able to make better informed decisions.

"Buying the wrong product might not aid your child's progress at school," Matt Leeser, head of buying for communications technology at John Lewis, warned.

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