NZ Government invests $5m into digital learning advisory service

A new advisory service that's aimed at helping schools understand the digital learning opportunities available has launched in New Zealand.

Nikki Kaye, Associate Education Minister, says the service enables teachers to get expert help and ask any questions in regard to digital learning online or over the phone.

Over the next three years, the government will invest $5 million in the Connected Learning Advisory – Te Ara Whitiki service.

"There are all sorts of digital devices and online learning tools available today that can make learning more engaging, more fun and more effective.

"The new service will help teachers find out what will work best for them, and provide any guidance needed on how to use the technology available to them," says Kaye.

She says the service is important as although more and more schools understand how digital technologies can positively affect learning, teachers often feel they lack the necessary skills to effectively use these technologies in the classroom.

"The service will help teachers see what's out there and how they can use it, and also help them keep up to date with the fast pace of change in this area," Kaye says.

The new service complements the ultrafast broadband that's currently being rolled out to schools, according to Kaye.

"This is about giving teachers the skills and knowledge to ensure the government's investment in infrastructure pays off where it counts, in the classroom.