Pearson Fronter supports Becta's Next Generation Learning campaign

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Posted on Thursday, 15 April 2010 14:04

What is Next Generation Learning?

Next Generation Learning is a government campaign initiated by Becta, the government’s agency for technology in education, which promotes the positive use of technology across the school curriculum, both inside and outside the classroom.

It enables parents, teachers and children to take charge and use technology more effectively. If you’re a student, it lets you learn how, when and where you want; if you’re a teacher it allows you to extend learning within and beyond the classroom, increasing engagement with parents and learners, and if you’re a parent, it helps you get fully involved in your child’s education at a time and in a way that suits you. 

This fun and inspiring video clip captures in just 3 minutes the essence of Next Generation Learning.

How can Next Generation Learning help schools?

Online reporting is a requirement for all schools by 2012.By giving parents key information up front, parents are able to plan what they would like to discuss with teachers in advance, making parent-teacher contact more constructive. Teachers are also able to give parents they rarely get to speak to, information which may encourage these parents to get more involved in their child’s education. 42% of teaching staff say ‘invisible’ parents lack the confidence to approach them to discuss their child [1]

Learning platforms can help engage parents by showing them what their child is doing in school without relying on the child passing on the information. Examples of this would be homework help, showing parents how their child is being taught, what they are being taught and how they can help. 83% of parents struggle to support their child with homework and over half of children are confused by their parents when they try to help with school work [2]. Also, displaying the school play on the Learning Platform provides parents who are absent a chance to share in the school community. Click here for a video that will help you understand.

There are a range of technologies from digital cameras to recording equipment which can help children learn problem solving and investigate skills as well as bringing subjects to life.

Visit and use the resource finder to find out how other schools are using technology to engage parents and learners.

[1] Schools and Parents report, published by Becta, November 2009

[2] ‘I’m stuck – can you help me?’ report, published by Becta, March 2010.