How Are New Technologies Used in Art & Design Teaching?
In a world where digital tools shape everything from illustration to fashion, how are they being used in the classroom—particularly in Art and Design? In this thought-provoking action research project, Julia Heckles explores how creative educators are responding to the opportunities and challenges of integrating ICT into their teaching.
Titled “ICT in the Art and Design Class: Approaches to New Technologies”, the project focuses on two different post-16 teaching contexts and investigates how new technologies are embedded into day-to-day practice. Through teacher interviews, lesson observations, and classroom photography, Julia builds a picture of both enthusiasm and hesitation—highlighting the diversity in how technology is used to enhance creativity and engagement.
The research reveals that while some educators confidently use digital tools such as Adobe Creative Suite, digital sketchbooks, and virtual galleries, others are more cautious—citing time constraints, limited access to software, or uncertainty about how to meaningfully integrate ICT into their creative curriculum. Importantly, the project doesn’t promote a “one size fits all” solution. Instead, it encourages reflection on how different levels of confidence, training, and institutional support influence the use of technology in arts education.
Julia’s findings underscore a key point: when used well, ICT can enrich the learning experience, inspire innovation, and help students engage with creative industries beyond the classroom. Her work has already influenced practice at her institution, leading to more focused staff development and a greater awareness of how digital literacy supports artistic growth.
If you're an educator working in creative subjects—or simply interested in how education adapts to the digital world—this research offers both practical insight and professional inspiration.
Click to read the full project and explore how technology and creativity can thrive together in today’s classrooms.