William Perkin CofE High School | United Kingdom | http://www.williamperkin.org.uk/

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A teacher and volunteer with an interest and experience in integrating educational technologies within formal and informal training settings.

What are the key trends you believe have the power to transform the way we learn?

Flexible working, and therefore flexible learning, can have a huge impact on how we learn both in terms of where and when, and what we are learning. A large proportion of young people see learning as something done in a classroom or at a desk, rather than a process which can be carried out anywhere. I think that the flexibility in working and learning will therefore have a big impact on what is seen as 'learning' and 'not learning' time.

Quizzing apps and mobile technology have allowed people to integrate learning into small gaps in the day, such as a bus journey or waiting time. I think the ability to review information in any setting will become increasingly important and links to my first point. This improves access to education across the world.

Finally, I think we need to utilise what we know about the human brain. It is plastic, but it is also not that different to thousands of years ago and we must not forget this.

The theme of EdTechXEurope 2018 is ‘Eternally Learning’. What does eternal learning mean to you?

For me it means having a constant curiosity about problems in the world alongside discussions around how to solve or alleviate them.

I see learning as a feedback loop of gaining or acquiring , doing something and then reflecting on something. The acquisition could be from study, experience or being taught, the action so wide ranging it would be impossible to document here, and then the important reflection. Reflection to ensure that.

What should the rest of the world learn about EdTech in your country?

This is a challenging question as I think that there is a huge difference between what is happening in the private sector versus the public sector that I work in. the links need to be stronger between the two, as well as between researchers, policy makers and the day to day practice of educators. 

Why is it important for all players in the EdTech ecosystem to continuously connect, network and learn from each other?

We need to find out other stakeholders' opinions on what the link is between what is happening across the sector in an informed way. We also need to be realistic and ambitious in equal measure about how and what is developing, and when and where it is possible to have an impact. 

How does your current role allow you to make a difference to education and learning space?

On a daily basis I am interacting with other educators, young people and parents, who are all using education resources already. This, along with an open-minded school leadership team, and in my role as a middle leader, allows for change across the school. As I also have taken a Masters level qualification in thia area recently, the school listens to my views. 

Who would you like to meet at the event?

Like-minded people with an interest in embedding technologies in a school curriculum to improve educational outcomes. 

When you think about joining London EdTech Week and EdTechXEurope Summit this year, what are you looking forward to?

1. New viewpoints and ideas
2. Voicing a perspective about the realities of formal education
3. A greater understanding of the sector and meeting like-minded individuals for potential partnerships.

Join Helen and our 100+ thought leader speakers at EdTechXEurope 2018 on 19 June 2018 - reserve your place now >>