The EdTech Research Network (ETRN) at the School of Education comprises researchers and higher degree students committed to understanding the design, use and ethical governance of technology to enhance teaching and learning in schools and higher education especially teacher education. The network’s three research themes can be explored below.

Emerging Technology in Schools

This research focuses on innovative design, implementation and evaluation of emerging technologies such as virtual and augmented reality, artificial intelligence and robotics, games-based learning, and social media for learning communities in primary and secondary schools. This area includes the VR School Study, the longest running research on the integration of virtual reality in schools, internationally.

Researchers

Dr Emma Shaw

Lecturer
School of Education

Associate Professor Erica Southgate

Associate Professor
School of Education

Dr Robertson Burgess

Lecturer
School of Education
Ms Marina Sindija

Ms Marina Sindija

Casual Academic/Casual Academic
School of Education

Dr Dara Tafazoli

Research Officer/Casual Research Assistant
School of Health Sciences

Innovative Technology for Teacher Education

This research explores the use of simulation and immersive technology and artificial intelligence to enhance professional experience in initial teacher education. This includes immersive content creation to foster cultural responsiveness or interculturally sustainable practices. There is also inquiry into computer assisted language learning.

Researchers

Professor Susan Ledger

Head of School
School of Education

Dr Emma Shaw

Lecturer
School of Education

Dr Erika Spray

Lecturer
School of Education

Ms Tess Rendoth

Lecturer
School of Education

Dr Helena Sit

Senior Lecturer
School of Education
Dr Natasha Kett

Dr Natasha Kett

Casual Academic
School of Education

Associate Professor Debra Donnelly

Associate Professor
School of Education

Dr Dara Tafazoli

Research Officer/Casual Research Assistant
School of Health Sciences

Dr Judith Foggett

Senior Lecturer
School of Education

Dr Greg Preston

Senior Lecturer
School of Education

Governing EdTech

This research investigates the policy, standards and regulatory frameworks that can ensure the ethical use of Edtech in schools and universities. With a focus on technology ethics and equity and digital human rights, including the rights of the child, this area develops leading edge national and international perspectives on the benefits and risks of technology integration in education as an enterprise for human and planetary good.

Researchers

Associate Professor Erica Southgate

Associate Professor
School of Education

Professor Susan Ledger

Head of School
School of Education