Schools need to develop a culture of innovative teaching fit for education in the 21st century
November 2008
A new handbook from Futurelab warns that the UK education system is in danger of falling behind with outdated teaching practices that do not provide learners with 21st century skills. The 'Promoting Transformative Innovation in Schools' handbook supports teachers and other education practitioners to create a 'culture of innovation' in schools by detailing resources designed to help teachers to be innovative, both in and out of the classroom.
The Government is increasingly driving towards a more personalised education system which demands the development of innovative practice. It is increasingly recognised within Government policies and initiatives that there is a need for greater creativity, flexibility and learner input to deliver an education that fosters the skills and capabilities required by young people for the 21st century. However, it can sometimes seem difficult for teachers themselves to try new approaches within the existing system, but this is not necessarily the case.
Tim Rudd, Senior Researcher at Futurelab and co-author of the handbook, explains further: "The current standards-driven agenda can appear to leave little time for creativity and new practice development. However, some of the barriers are perceptual. The DCSF and QCA do advocate space to develop innovative practice but teachers and schools must be prepared to take risks."
'Promoting Transformative Innovation in Schools' offers a number of tools, techniques and approaches which can help schools to develop a culture of embedding innovation into day-to-day practice. It also highlights emerging digital technologies which present new opportunities and social practices and can lead to dynamic learning experiences. Although, the authors of the handbook point out that simply using technology in the classroom is not innovation in and of itself - it needs to be used to challenge and transform existing practices.
Tim Rudd concludes: "It is time for a shift in teaching practice in line with broader educational visions such as personalisation and Every Child Matters. Policy changes need to facilitate a model of innovation from the bottom up emanating from the practitioners themselves. Schools and teachers must be willing to try new approaches and accept risks and failures as part of an ongoing process of changing practice. Ultimately the consequences of failing to innovate are far more serious for the education system and learners."
The 'Promoting Transformative Innovation in Schools' handbook can be downloaded free of charge from www.futurelab.org.uk/handbooks.