It’s been a busy quarter in the EdTech space. In July, I had the pleasure of MCing the New Zealand Education & Technology Summit. Inspired by the event, it was a great reminder that New Zealand does in fact have a World Leading Education system. Kudos to Ormiston Junior College for an excellent example of what students can achieve if provided with agency and the right tools!
During the last month, I’ve attended EdTech Connect events in Wellington and Auckland. Both panel discussions raised the future role of Artificial Intelligence (AI), in the context of the role of teachers and students, but also in the broader context of ‘The Future of Work’. It was a timely reminder too that ‘the robots’ won’t replace us, rather they will supplement us, make us better at what we do and help deliver better outcomes. View this example of what AI in education might look like thanks to Kiwi success story Soul Machines. While AI is predicted to have a role in future education, this example is happening right now!
In other EdTech news, we are developing EdTech in Practice, an initiative to showcase how EdTech tools can make a positive impact on education and social issues. Please share local examples with us, particularly those using New Zealand platforms.
Last week, the NZTech CEO Forum and TechLeaders Executive hosted a working lunch with Minister Robertson to discuss the #futureofwork and alignment with the Digital Principles. Overall support from the Minister was gained on how large firms, industry and Government can work together to reduce the impact of new technologies in the workplace. The importance of reaching out to the industry and reskilling the current workforce was raised, as well as recognising micro-credentials as a vital tool.
Finally, welcome to all of our new members and I look forward to working with you all.
Ngā mihi
Shane Kerr
Vice Chair
