Educational technology
As a research group, we investigate the possibilities and the ifs and buts of educational technology. We focus on their use and the professionalisation of (future) teachers in the area of 'next practices'. We examine how educational technology can make a valuable contribution to the education of pupils.
nnovative technologies are constantly emerging in education. For example, artificial intelligence, wearables and immersive, multimodal learning environments with augmented and virtual reality. Although technology offers opportunities, the high expectations often do not come true and we have to consider the moral-ethical issues that play a role. We investigate how technology can make a valuable contribution to education.
Main research themes
With Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) techniques, it is possible to look at your environment differently or to immerse yourself in a different environment. For example, we use VR to put teachers in a classroom environment where all kinds of bullying situations arise. Teachers can then indicate whether and how strictly they would intervene in response to such bullying behaviour. This VR experience is followed by reflective discussions with other VR participants about how (and especially why) everyone acted in a certain way.
In another VR experience, you are a teacher standing in front of a kindergarten class. Not with real pre-school children: the class consists of computer-generated avatars. This VR experience allows you to experiment with your behaviour in front of the class. Someone else controls the behaviour of the avatars via the computer. Everything is simulated. As a teacher, you are free to try different approaches. For example, you can get angry! Here too, reflection with others who have observed the session is essential for effective professionalisation.
Predicting the future of education is always a bit of a guessing game. Nevertheless, it is interesting and important to think about the influence of trends and (technological) developments on education. A better understanding of the possible consequences will help to find well thought-out solutions to possible (future) problems. And it contributes to the futureproofing and quality of education.
Together with practising professionals, we consider the future of education and what is desirable. We sketch out, think through and consider scenarios. This helps us to act better in the here and now.
Our projects
- Future Learning Lab
- Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality
- Interactive whiteboard application for children's book Dalton Expedition
- Differentiation and eye-tracking
- Education of the future
- Virtual International Collaboration
How can we work together?
"Are you actively involved in the development, improvement and renewal of educational practices and technologies? Research can increase your knowledge and expertise. It can provide new insights and potentially contribute to positive changes in education. Contact us to explore possible collaboration opportunities."
(Symen van der Zee, Professor in Innovative Education, [email protected])