Educational support systems are often all-encompassing, large systems, consisting of multiple linked applications, in which educational institutions manage all communication around learning and related matters. Their size makes them expensive, the number of links and dependencies makes them difficult to manage and restricts innovation.
But is it really necessary, such an all-encompassing system? Why not offer all the necessary information in a smart list to data way and let the students choose how they want to take it in. For example, the following scenario:
The educational institution ensures a good information provision based on well-known web standards. For example, course material is available via RSS feeds, timetables via iCalendar and class lists include Twitter and Skype usernames. The costs of this will probably be considerably lower compared to traditional educational portals.
The remaining budget can be invested in the deployment of devices for students. For example, by offering high subsidies for laptops or tablets.
Students are taught in “smart learning and working”. This can be done by interested teachers, but also by older students or via guest lectures. Students then choose the tools they like to work with. But they use the same information.
Starting point for every educational institution
Put yourself in the shoes of a pupil or student. How do they stay informed about what is happening in the world and how do they communicate with each other? They make conscious choices and choose the tools that fit their needs. That should be the starting point for educational support. It would be a shame if we did not reap the benefits of a generation that grows up with these kinds of tools?