Microsoft introduces Teaching with Technology

Microsoft Sri Lanka recently launched its Teaching with Technology (TwT) initiative in Sri Lanka. It targets educators and students and helps both parties identify how information technology can enhance the teaching and learning experience and enable students to acquire 21st century skills.

A spokesman for the company said students lap up information wherever they find it, and teachers are faced with the challenge of reaching out to students using methods that are relevant.

The initial part of the TwT program was a conference, hosted by Microsoft to guide educators and technology experts on how they could best use technology in schools. Focusing on the 'End-to-End Experience of Teaching with Technology', the conference gifted attendees a free O365 Education Plan.

The program concluded with a competition where students from 150 schools and private educational institutes participated. The students had to present proposals on how the use of technology could be increased in their schools, along with a plan for implementation.

Country Manager, Microsoft Sri Lanka and the Maldives, Brian Kealey said, "It was truly inspiring to see the passion and enthusiasm of the students who participated in the competition. It is important for us to empower the younger generation so that they could be well equipped to function in the digital age and this is in line with our objective of making Sri Lanka an ICT-empowered nation."

Belvoir College International was adjudged the winner of the competition while Horizon College International was the first runner-up and Hejaaz International School second runner-up.

Belvoir College, principal, Terrence Wijesiri said, "This was a successful attempt by Microsoft to involve students and teachers in research on the latest technological advancements related to education."

"I believe this type of interactive communication between Microsoft and schools can provide great opportunities to rethink and reinvent education," he said.