Transforming Education Through Digital Innovation And Social Equity

Janet Lord, Deputy Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Faculty Of Health And Education, The Manchester Metropolitan University

Prof. Janet Lord is the Deputy Pro-Vice-Chancellor for the Faculty of Health and Education and a Professor of Digital Education at Manchester Metropolitan University. She holds a degree in psychology, a master’s in cognitive science specialising in AI and a doctorate in education. With a career spanning academia, consultancy and governance, she focuses on leveraging technology to enhance learning. Her expertise in education, leadership, digital education and social justice informs her work with diverse organisations and professionals at all levels.

In an interview with Education Technology Insights, Prof. Janet Lord highlights the importance of integrating technology effectively into education, addressing challenges such as digital skills gaps and AI concerns and promoting social justice through inclusive education practices.

Challenges and Opportunities in Educational Technology Leadership

The pandemic accelerated technology integration in education, but this rapid shift revealed a crucial insight—simply moving traditional classroom teaching online wasn’t sufficient. Teaching online requires an entirely different set of pedagogies and ways of thinking. It wasn’t enough to turn on a camera and replicate face-to-face teaching methods. That approach doesn’t work.

With over three decades of experience in educational technology, the perspective on AI in education is particularly enlightening. The fascinating reality is that the core issues surrounding AI—ethics, jobs and teaching implications remain remarkably similar to those faced thirty years ago. Today’s key challenge is ensuring AI serves human interests rather than being driven by corporate agendas. Universities and educational leaders must actively shape the conversation about AI to guide us toward a productive relationship with technology.

Leading Through Change: A Collaborative Approach

Leadership in educational technology isn’t about imposing changes from above. True transformation happens through collaboration and understanding. This approach proves particularly valuable when addressing technological changes, as even highly educated professionals can feel nervous about new tools and systems.

Take, for instance, recent discussions with teachers about using AI for meeting minutes. Their concerns about data security and privacy were obvious. These were highly well-educated, knowledgeable professionals expressing genuine apprehension. Such concerns deserve serious consideration and support rather than dismissal.

At Manchester Metropolitan University, the focus remains on digitally enhanced education—using technology as a tool to enrich learning experiences rather than letting it become the central focus. Excellence in teaching, student outcomes and student experience must drive decisions, with technology as an enabling tool rather than an end in itself.

Bridging the Digital Divide

A persistent myth needs debunking—not everyone is online. The reality is far more complex. Approximately eight million people in the UK lack basic digital skills and over one and a half million households don’t have broadband or mobile internet access. While some might work from multiple screens and devices, others struggle to complete basic digital tasks.

“Universities Bear A Moral Responsibility To Their Communities. This Responsibility Goes Beyond Conducting High-Quality Research— It’s About Translating Findings Into Meaningful Real-World Applications”

Manchester Metropolitan University addresses these challenges through a comprehensive approach. To start, the university makes sure there is hardware access by providing the necessary devices for learning and work. Recognising that not everyone has access to technology, they offer loan programs, allowing staff and students to borrow devices they may need to stay connected and complete essential tasks.

In addition, the university focuses on infrastructure support, guaranteeing digital resources remain accessible, whether on or off campus. This commitment ensures all students and staff can access the tools, learning materials and collaborative platforms they need, no matter where they are.

The university also champions digital skills development, launching initiatives such as the Adobe Creative Campus partnership. This program helps students and staff build crucial digital competencies, equipping them with the tools and skills to thrive in today’s digital world and ensuring everyone has the opportunity to enhance their digital literacy for future success.

The Role of Higher Education in Social Justice

Universities bear a moral responsibility to their communities. This responsibility goes beyond conducting high-quality research—it’s about translating findings into meaningful realworld applications. Good education and good health form the cornerstone of a civilised society. Universities must lead efforts to break down systemic barriers, working alongside policymakers and community leaders to create lasting change.

The work with trainee teachers exemplifies this approach. These future educators will shape coming generations, making it crucial to equip them with the tools and mindset to be change agents in their classrooms.

Moving Forward in Educational Technology

For those looking to integrate digital innovation while maintaining inclusive learning environments, the path forward requires calculated risk-taking and continuous reflection. Innovation doesn’t mean reckless change—it means being openminded enough to try new approaches while carefully evaluating their impact. If something doesn’t work, learn from it and move forward. The key lies in being a reflective practitioner, constantly assessing how new approaches affect learners and seeking improvement.

This balanced approach—embracing innovation while focusing on human needs and educational objectives—points the way forward for educational technology. In facing current challenges, from the cost-of-living crisis to digital exclusion, the solution lies in combining practical support with strategic vision. Whether through community digital inclusion hubs, library support programs or university initiatives, the goal is to ensure technology enhances rather than hinders educational access and quality.

Educational Technology

Data Security

Cognitive

Adobe