Universal Design for Learning

An important framework within the New Zealand curriculum over the last decade has been the universal design for learning; a flexible and inclusive approach to teaching and learning that is underpinned by the intent to allow akonga (learners) to participate and engage with learning in a manner that celebrates and accommodates their individuality. 

As humans, we all come with different backgrounds, experiences, personalities and interests that make us who we are. It is critical that our teaching accommodates these differences –  to support each student in a way that represents their needs to ensure they have every opportunity to learn in a way that is inclusive and free from barriers. 

For a teacher, it can be challenging to ensure each student in a classroom is uniquely engaged in their learning, even when a universal design for learning is implemented. However, this is where the potential for innovative ed-techs can create personalised learning that is adaptive and inclusive to each akongas needs. With the ability to scan and analyse patterns in datasets, there is unlimited opportunities and potential for technology to be embedded in classroom tools to better learner outcomes. 

This can be seen already through the use of interactive games, student metric analysis and learning management systems, where they help to create adaptive learning as we can automatically collect data and provide real-time understanding of where a learner may need more support in reinforcing concepts or fill in gaps in their knowledge. By being able to capture data automatically, this supports a UDL strategy as a teacher is able to track students’ progress throughout the year, creating more thorough insights into each learner and adjusting their teaching approach.

A one size fits all approach to education is isolating and creates barriers for learners. We want to see a world where each akonga has the ability to flourish and succeed, not only in a classroom, but for the entirety of their lives. We’re proud of the work that is being done in the EdTech space to help create an equitable and inclusive Aoetearoa where education is for all. To help support the EdTech sector in Aotearoa, we are excited to announce the EdTech Ecosystem Map is now live on our website.

EdTech Ecosystem Map Launch 

We’ve been working hard behind the scenes to create an ecosystem map and directory of all EdTechs within Aotearoa. Using Kiwi innovation, the companies showcased are changing the way we distribute and consume education, bringing kaiako (teachers) and learners (akonga) closer together through digital learning and experiences. 

As the EdTech sector is growing and evolving with new innovations, this ecosystem map is a living document and will be continuously updated. If you would like to be included, please reach out to our team to join the EdTech Ecosystem Map.

International study on cybersecurity standards for EdTech: Views from the sector!

EdTech vendors are invited to the first international qualitative study examining views from the sector on cybersecurity matters. 

The objective of the study is to identify common challenges and practices among EdTech vendors with regards to cybersecurity controls and frameworks.

Taking part is anonymous and will directly benefit EdTech participants. The aggregated responses will be used for purposes to advance the development of a common (global) security sector-specific standard. 

Email lead researcher Veli Hillman at v.hillman@lse.ac.uk if you would like to participate. The interview will take between 30-45 min via Zoom.

The EdTechNZ Team