Siemens UK Schools and Education Manager, Brenda Yearsley, on changing attitudes to edtech through providing meaningful e-learning tools…
Many parents, teachers and carers are worried that smartphone and tablet use is blocking their children’s career prospects…. what if the use of technology is actually a gateway to life-long learning?
I would say that the methodology of engagement with young people is as important as the content; the world of work is forever changing and we need to showcase how we use fun, practical technology in industry, whether this is digital twinning, virtual or augmented reality.
Augmented reality in education changes the way students and employees learn, enabling the user to be fully immersed and able to interact and enhance their study in a novel and safe environment.
The free Ingenious Engineering App is a great way to engage students and help them to learn more about inventions and innovations in engineering. It is a new resource from Siemens Education, whose aim is to bring science, technology, engineering and maths education to life in the classroom and to excite children about the STEM subjects. 
Edtech resources for ages 12+
Developed to support design and technology for students aged 12+ the resources comprise the App which can be downloaded from the Google Play and App Store, a poster which launches the augmented reality animation and a comprehensive lesson plan and supporting worksheets for Key Stages 2, 3 and 4.
The App allows students to explore automation, electrification and digitalisation on individuals, society as well and the environment; there’s a CT scanner to see inside the human body, a rollercoaster, wind turbines and a driverless car.
Teachers or students just need a smartphone and the ingenuity poster to bring to life the technological aspect of learning to life; the Siemens’ AR app can be used as stand-alone but can be used just as easily in collaboration with full lesson plans and interactive ‘tools’ for full authenticity, creativity and realism.
There is also free design and engineering software, activities, games and challenges for students available too. They can be found here:
Student edtech resources
Teacher edtech resources
