Mixed results from study of Digital Technology and its use in schools

A national survey by Monash University shows the Australian public is largely supportive of digital technology in schools, but a number of concerns remain.

Australian adults are largely positive about the overall benefits of technology in schools, with sizable support for the future rollout of online exams, blended learning classes and even facial recognition systems in classrooms within the next 10 years.

However, a number of issues continue to concern parents and the wider public. Nearly 40 per cent of adults believe that 'big tech' companies such as Google and Microsoft cannot be trusted to play a leading role in supporting schools' technology use.

Similarly, there is strong public support for mobile phone restrictions with nearly 80 per cent supporting the idea of classroom bans, and just under one-third support a total school-wide ban.

The key findings of the report include:

• 66% of adults agree that digital technologies make a positive contribution to Australian schools
• 37% of adults believe 'big tech' companies cannot be trusted to play a role in school technology
• 79% of adults support schools banning the use of mobile phones while students are in class
• 44% of adults are happy to see online exams
• 34% want blended learning opportunities
• 46% of adults would like facial recognition technology (computerised video tracking in schools to monitor attendance and ensure safety) incorporated into classrooms over the next 10 years
• Only 21% of adults believe that parents should pay for their child's BYOD (bring your own device) laptop or digital tablet if schools do not give them a choice of device

The most strongly supported idea from the survey was the importance of schools to teach students information technology skills that are relevant for future jobs (86.3%).

The full Report from Monash University can be found at this link: https://www.monash.edu/__data/assets/pdf_file/0008/1626236/Education-Futures-Research-Report-Digital-Lessons.pdf