Technology will take learning environment outside classroom

Abu Dhabi - While technology is great, the greater focus remains the people it serves.

Digital transformation in schools should not only be about going paperless, but a fundamental transformation of the learning environment. Using technology for new learning methodologies is key to this, said Anthony Salcito, Vice President of Education for Microsoft Corporation.
In an interview with Khaleej Times on the sidelines of Bett Middle East Leadership Summit in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, Salcito said he believes that while paper will continue to be used for art and crafts and such, technology will be integral to shifting the learning environment beyond the classrooms. "The fundamental issue should be focused on shifting the learning environment beyond content to developing skills, and changing students from being passive to creative and project-based learning," said Salcito. 'These are the dynamics that we are trying to achieve and technology is the catalyst in supporting this."
While technology is great, the greater focus remains the people it serves. "We focus more on how to prepare teachers and leaders for better learning outcomes. The work we do with technology is to help schools on transforming students for the future," said Salcito.
"Microsoft recommends that education leaders take a curriculum-focused approach to technology adoption, keeping in mind their educational goals, and then integrate those technologies that facilitate tangible benefits for students and teachers."
Digital classrooms of future
UAE schools are seeing a lot progress in taking classrooms digital, largely because of great support from the government and its love for equipping youngsters with creative skills. "Leaders and educators in the UAE are recognising the need for science and technological skills and they believe in taking learning experiences of all types to the next level," said Salcito.
"With the 'smart learning technology' for example, I see a great deal of outcomes reflected on this like testing schools and these will have a great impact of the development of the economy. The UAE is leading other areas in the region on that."
Microsoft has hundreds of global teaching materials and teaching lessons that they share with all teachers.  Among the latest is Office 365 Education - a rich suite that provides teachers with very simple tools to use and interact with the class, and Mycroft Education Addition, for both teachers and students. "We create devices that are easy to use, mange, learn and access. For instance, Mycroft Education Addition doesn't just bring technology into the classrooms, it helps students who are demonstrating skills which are also valuable in the workplace," said Salcito.
1,600 turn up for technology summit in Capital
About 1,600 education policy makers, leaders, teachers and experts from over 35 countries on Tuesday in the Capital for the region's largest technology summit.
The BETT Middle East Leadership Summit brought together regional senior education leaders and esteemed global speakers under the theme: "Igniting Excitement through Innovation in Learning".
Featuring keynote addresses, discussions and debates on a wide range of topics affecting educational transformation, the two-day summit included latest trends in STEM education, educational equality and access, employability and 21^st century skills, as well as data. "ADEC is happy to partner with Bett to create a high notch education platform that not only enhances networking opportunities for Abu Dhabi, but for the region, one that brings about best practices and experiences in education," said Dr. Ali Al Nuaimi, ADEC's Director General, during his welcoming speech to delegates at the summit.
"The education system in the emirate and across the world is constantly reforming. In order to ensure successful implementation of education reform, a large-scale improvement plan needs to be continuously updated to best suit the nation's socio-economic situation and market needs," said Al Nuaimi.
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