How to Transform Your Classroom with Digital Innovation: Insights from Gemma Gwilliam
In today's rapidly evolving world, technology is playing an increasingly important role in education. From helping teachers streamline workloads to providing students with tools that enhance their learning experiences, digital innovation is transforming classrooms globally. In a recent episode of The International Classroom podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Gemma Gwilliam, the Head of Digital Learning, Education, and Innovation for Portsmouth. Gemma shared valuable insights into how she is leading a digital transformation across 62 schools and how teachers everywhere can harness the power of technology to improve student outcomes.
Here are the key takeaways from our conversation, filled with actionable tips and strategies for teachers to implement in their own classrooms.
1. Use Technology to Reduce Teacher Workload
One of the main challenges teachers face is managing their workload. With endless lesson planning, grading, and administrative tasks, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. However, Gemma shared some practical strategies for using digital tools to streamline these tasks.
Gemma emphasized the importance of using AI tools to reduce teacher workload:
"When you start using technology to automate repetitive tasks, you free up valuable time to focus on your students. AI-powered tools like Grammarly and Microsoft Word’s Editor can help with feedback, while Google Sheets with AI plugins can automate grading."
By embracing tools like these, teachers can spend more time working directly with students rather than getting bogged down by administrative duties.
2. Provide Feedback Through QR Codes
Feedback is crucial for student development, but writing it down repeatedly can be time-consuming and less engaging for students. Gemma introduced a game-changing method: using QR codes to deliver verbal feedback.
"Recording feedback and turning it into a QR code that students can scan anytime is a powerful way to engage them. They can listen to it again when needed, and it reduces the need for repetitive written feedback," said Gemma.
To try this in your classroom:
Record audio feedback on any device.
Save the file to Google Drive or OneDrive.
Generate a QR code linking to the feedback, and attach it to students’ work.
This allows students to receive personalized, clear feedback they can revisit on their own time.
3. Build a Successful Digital Strategy
Whether you're a teacher or school leader, having a digital strategy is essential for long-term success with technology in education. Gemma highlighted the importance of building a cohesive digital strategy that works for both students and teachers.
"The first step is to assess where your school or classroom is with technology. Then, build a plan around the tools you already have. It’s not about adding something new; it’s about optimizing what’s available to you," Gemma explained.
She encourages schools to start with small, achievable goals, such as improving lesson planning through PowerPoint or Google Slides, and slowly introduce more advanced tools like AI or collaborative platforms.
4. Make Technology Accessible and Inclusive
For Gemma, equity in digital access is at the heart of her work. With 30,000 children in Portsmouth, 10,000 of whom live in deprivation, ensuring that every child has the same opportunities to succeed through technology is critical.
"Technology can be a great equalizer. It can reduce barriers for students with learning difficulties or those from disadvantaged backgrounds. But we need to make sure that everyone has access to the tools they need to succeed," she said.
Gemma’s work in Portsmouth includes providing devices like Chromebooks to students who might not have access to technology at home, as well as training teachers on how to use tools like Immersive Reader to support students with learning differences.
5. Train Teachers to Use Technology Effectively
Introducing technology into the classroom isn’t enough; teachers need proper training to use these tools effectively. Gemma spoke about the importance of teacher training and support to ensure successful implementation.
"When training teachers, start by asking them how they’re currently using technology. You’ll find that many are already using tools without realizing it. From there, introduce simple improvements, like adding subtitles to videos or providing resources digitally," Gemma suggested.
By helping teachers become more confident in their use of technology, schools can foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
Final Thoughts: Embracing Digital Innovation for a Better Future
Gemma Gwilliam’s approach to digital innovation in education is practical, inclusive, and future-focused. By implementing simple tools like AI, QR codes, and digital lesson planning platforms, teachers can not only reduce their workload but also create more engaging, accessible learning environments for their students.
"Technology isn’t just a shiny new tool—it’s here to stay. It’s about using the right tools for the right activity at the right time to support both teachers and students," Gemma concluded.
If you’re interested in learning more about how digital innovation can transform your classroom, be sure to check out the full episode of The International Classroom podcast with Gemma Gwilliam. You can also explore our Global Teacher Toolkit, which includes downloadable quick guides and practical resources for teachers.
