The Basingstoke College of Technology is celebrated for its transformative use of AI in teaching, learning and student support.
Using AI platforms and technology across the university helped students improve their grades, gain confidence and free up more time for teachers to spend with students.
The digital team was awarded the Silver Award for Transformative Use of Digital Technology at this year's Pearson National Education Awards.
BCOT's AI use began when students passionately appealed to the unconfirmed use of AI while studying. This sparked a vital discussion and encouraged universities to address their use.
Digital Head Scott Hayden said:
“It was clear that AI wouldn't stop and we needed to accept it. But in ways that strengthen our education, empower students and ensure fair access. The introduction of Google Gemini, Canva AI, and other personal learning tools has had a major impact on how we can work as a university and help students reach their full potential. And our students will embrace AI.”
BCOT also established the “AI Ethics Group” to demonstrate its commitment to responsible deployment, implement robust governance policies, and support other universities to implement the use of AI in classrooms.
BCOT is one of the 94 worthy teachers, lecturers, leaders, support staff and institutions recognized as silver winners at this year's Pearson National Education Awards for its lasting impact on shaping the lives of young people.
The announcement of the winners thanked the National for Teacher Day, and Claire Rogers, vice president of transformation and delivery from Pearson, visited BCOT to award the award to the digital team.
Selected from thousands of candidates, they will have the chance to win the highly desirable gold medal, which will be announced at the prestigious awards ceremony in London and at BBC One's one show later this year.
Celebrating the entire education community and thanking the National, the Pearson National Education Award is run by The Teaching Awards Trust, an independent charity founded more than 25 years ago to celebrate the transformative impact of education, and highlights the young people who are inspired by teachers, support staff, universities, schools and educators, playing every day and in their childhood.
According to sponsoring the Digital Technology Transformation Award, Dr. Elise Ecoff, Chief Education Officer at Nord Anglia Education, said:
“Those who use technology most effectively in education have the power to recharge learning, unlock possibilities and transform results. NordAngliaEducation is proud to sponsor this award, celebrating the award, which leads in improving teaching and learning using digital tools.
