David Purdie, NextGen: HN New Product Development Manager, introduces the concept of ‘digital by default’ while considering its impact on the education sector, and the NextGen: HN project.
Digital by default can mean many things. Some may understand it as a digital process that can replace old paper-based systems, while others may feel it encompasses everything in the digital space. Different definitions are fine to exist, as long as we focus on improved learner and practitioner experiences within the education system.
The digital theme is important to NextGen: HN and SQA. There are digital learning resources available through SQA Academy, and SQA has its own digital assessment platform called SOLAR. Recently, NextGen: HN has investigated some digital tools, such as Obrizum and Stellar.
However, now seems a good time to stand back and reflect. How can we build on the NextGen: HN digital work? What is happening in the digital world amongst delivering centres in 2024, and how can NextGen: HN add value?
A lot has happened in the digital world in the last few years, and we are in a very different position in comparison to the initial days of NextGen: HN. The Covid-19 pandemic provided significant challenges and centres needed to adapt quickly, utilising digital solutions for learning and teaching.
Since then, the evolution of generative artificial intelligence has caught the imagination of many in education. The technology may not be perfect but it’s improving at rapid pace, and there’s great potential for the education sector.
I’m looking to set up a network of digital officers across NextGen: HN delivering centres. This will allow us to capture and share innovative digital practise. I hope NextGen: HN can add value to the great work already happening in centres, and we can be proud of the advancements we’re making.
I’ll be reaching out to delivering centres in the near future. However, if you’d like to join the informal digital network, please contact nextgen@sqa.org.uk.
We plan to publish various blogs, covering different digital topics. We also hope to introduce guest bloggers from centres, as we invite them to share their experiences.
