Insights: Navigating Digital Trends & Educational Innovation
Exploring the Nokia 3210 4G comeback, Hundo.xyz's Virtual Work Experience launch, and other game-changing initiatives in education technology
It's interesting to observe the digital learning landscape, particularly with these recent stories. Firstly, Apple and its new iPad Pro advertisement, "Crush." If you haven't seen it yet, the ad takes objects like a metronome, trumpet, and record player and crushes them to reveal the new iPad. It's devastating and demonstrates how the world's second-largest tech company has read it so incorrectly. In contrast, Human Mobile Devices (HMD) is reading the market and has relaunched the Nokia 3210. Yes! Remember that device? In a perceptive move, it's capitalising on the growing trend of people pushing back on their digital device use.
Secondly, Jonathan Haidt, author of The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness and writer at
, has recently been in London speaking to MPs and educators about the impact of phone-based childhoods. This, alongside the growing momentum of Smartphone Free Childhood and Ofcom's draft publication of the Children's Safety Code of Practice, signals a growing movement to push back harder on tech companies and tech use.In this edition, I've attempted to unpack and crush some of the main news, events, and findings in digital learning.
Thanks for reading,
Jonathan
Nokia 3210 4G Reboot: A Modern Classic Returns with Nostalgic Simplicity
The Nokia 3210 4G is making a nostalgic comeback, as announced by Lars Silberbauer of Human Mobile Devices (HMD) Global. This updated version packs in modern tech like 4G connectivity, Bluetooth, and a long-lasting battery, but stays true to its minimalist roots with no apps and the beloved Snake game. Available in gold, black, and 'Scuba' blue for £74.99, it's aimed at people looking for a break from smartphones. I'm curious to see how its simple, companion-phone approach appeals to those seeking digital simplicity. Lars is a smart guy.
Hundo.xyz to Launch Virtual Work Experience Programme on June 5
Hundo.xyz is set to redefine professional development with the upcoming launch of its Virtual Work Experience Program on June 5th. Aptly named "WEX" (Work Experience), this cutting-edge initiative promises participants immersive industry exposure and practical skills, all within a virtual environment. Joining the waitlist on the Hundo.xyz website secures early access and offers exclusive insights ahead of the launch. The programme is open to schools, colleges, parents, and individuals alike.
Prisma Expands Availability to European, African, and Middle Eastern Time Zones
Prisma announces expanded availability for the 2024-2025 season, catering to learners in European, African, and Middle Eastern time zones. This move aims to accommodate a wider global audience, providing access to Prisma's innovative educational platform during more convenient hours. Head over to their blog post for further details on this development.
Gaia Learning Launches Membership Subscription
Gaia Learning has unveiled its membership subscription, offering access to a variety of online courses and tailored content for families, schools, and young individuals. By joining the membership program, subscribers gain exclusive access to a wealth of specialist content aimed at supporting them and their loved ones. Priced at just £4.99 per month, members can unlock an expanding collection of courses and resources, specifically curated for neurodivergent families. In October last year, I wrote about its recent startup funding news.
Hybrid LPS Mayfair Open Morning: An Exclusive Networking Event
Academy21: First Online AP Accredited by UK Department for Education’s OEAS
A bit late including this one but it’s worth highlighting that Academy21 was recently the UK's first online alternative provision (AP) provider to be accredited under the Department for Education’s Online Education Accreditation Scheme (OEAS). This recognition underscores Academy21’s commitment to standards in education and safeguarding. The report from the Department for Education commends Academy21 for its high expectations and support structures, solidifying its position in online education.
You can read more about the accreditation for online education providers here.
Save the Date: Webinar on Unlocking Opportunities for Social Impact in Education
As part of the #VolunteersWeek 2024 celebrations, Chapter One has announced an upcoming webinar on June 5 at 1pm. Teaming up with Governors for Schools, it is exploring pathways for social impact within education. It will look at how employers can support employees in volunteer roles, the socio-economic benefits of corporate partnerships in education, and insights from industry leaders like Dan Heffernan, Strategic Social Value Lead at AtkinsRéalis, and Alison Walker, 5 Million Futures Education Lead at Deloitte.
If you're a professional in social impact, social value, ESG, CSR, or a leader in HR and learning and development, this webinar is worth booking onto.
📄 Research Paper: Understanding Digital Learning Trends and Challenges in the UK
This fantastic research paper delves into the current state of digital K-12 education in the United Kingdom, focusing primarily on England. By conducting a thorough analysis, it examines the trends and challenges within digital learning. The study scrutinises various aspects of digital education, including innovative pedagogical practices and the ongoing quest for equitable access.
This paper serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, educators, and researchers interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the digital education landscape. Access to the full research paper is available here.
Unraveling Digital Learning Ecosystems: A Beginner's Guide
Step into the world of digital learning ecosystems with this piece I wrote for subscribers. Whether you're new to the concept or seeking deeper insights, this article tries to provide a comprehensive exploration of the interconnected web of technology, tools, and strategies driving modern education.
New Report on Digitally Enhanced Blended Learning in Higher Education
Policy Connect's latest report explores the integration of technology in higher education through digitally enhanced blended learning. This approach combines traditional face-to-face instruction with online resources, offering a flexible learning environment. The report provides valuable insights into implementation strategies, effectiveness, and policy considerations, making it essential reading for educators and policymakers alike.
Of cross-sector interest, the report emphasises the need for senior leadership roles to drive and advocate blended learning initiatives, along with increased investment in staff development for effective implementation.
Additionally, it highlights the importance of integrating digital literacy into the curriculum and adopting agile, possibly collective approaches to commercial edtech procurement to foster innovation and accessibility.
The research is from the Higher Education Commission, written by Alyson Hwang.
Access the full report here to stay informed about the evolving landscape of higher education.
Innovate Education: Oak National Academy Hackathon at Ada
Oak National Academy will hold a strategic hackathon at Ada, the National College for Digital Skills in Pimlico, on Friday, June 7th, and Saturday, June 8th, from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. The event will target school tech leads, engineers, graduates, and edtech professionals to collaborate in developing innovative educational products by using Oak’s resources, data, and API.
Registration is required to gain access to further information about the event.
Contribute to the Future of Learning at OEB Global
Celebrate the 30th OEB Global conference in Berlin and contribute to discussions including the future of digital learning and the impact of generative AI on education. Educators, technologists, and thought leaders are invited to share proposals on trends, challenges, and solutions in technology-enhanced learning.
Schoolio Appoints Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, to Leadership Team
Four years ago, Schoolio embarked on its journey to provide education beyond traditional classrooms. I remember first speaking to CEO Sathish Bala about his ideas. This month, Schoolio announced an interesting coup: signing up Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, to join their advisory board. With Duchess Sarah Ferguson as a Global Ambassador, Schoolio aims to extend its impact worldwide.
Director of Technology Operations at LSE in Partnership with Spencer Group
Earlier this year, I enjoyed connecting with Micah Coston who heads up the Innovation in Education practice at Spencer Group. It is working on some interesting appointments in the tertiary sectory and recently announced a partnership with Nick Gilbert, the new Chief Information Officer (CIO) at The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), to search for the Director of Technology Operations. This collaboration presents an exciting opportunity for qualified candidates to join a dynamic team advancing educational technology. If you'd like more details, please reply to this email.
And Finally, Unlock Your Early Access to Digital Learningpalooza 2024!
Early bird registration is now open for the Digital Learning Collaborative online event, Digital Learningpalooza in October 2024. Ending on this note and a special shout out to the DLAC team.