What is DesignMyICT?

DesignMyICT is a tool that helps explore exactly how Information Communication technology (ICT) might be used in a new school. It has been designed primarily to encourage discussion between different stakeholders linked with a new school build, be they the students themselves, parents, teachers and governors. If you are from one of those groups, hopefully this will prove an empowering venture - your opportunity to influence the future of learning within your region.

For school heads and managers, the outputs of DesignMyICT process help inform ongoing discussions with architects and contractors, providing a framework for identifying the technology related needs of your school and equiping you with a means to progress towards a longer term vision for ICT. Hopefully this will turn an otherwise daunting task into something stress free and just plain useful.

DesignMyICT - Quality Indicators (QIs) for ICT

DesignMyICT is based upon Becta's ICT Quality Indicator framework and offers 64 statements which measure design factors that are applicable to ICT in schools. Some of the design factors may be crucial to the ICT’s success, some, if achieved would enable ICT to become embedded, some may enable transformation, some though may be completely irrelevant.

By engaging with and completing the tool and taking part in the discussion and debate about ICT you will be contributing to the overall effectiveness of ICT for learners and learning.

The tool is designed to capture the aspirations for ICT in terms of a set of weightings

  • Things that are needed - these are fundamental aspects that are basic and essential in order to ensure ICT fulfils its potential.
  • Things that are wanted - these added value aspects will enhance the ICT’s usefulness and pleasure value. These factors are desirable and would be beneficial to the embedding of the ICT.
  • Things that are wished for - these make the ICT transform the experience of learning, teaching and being in the building. These factors make the ICT exceptional.