Real
progress for the development of lifelong learning can be achieved through more
flexible forms of educational provision [1]. According to the Organisation for
Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), in order to provide more responsive pedagogical
engagement to enhance the student experience, changes of values, attitudes,
institutional organisation, modes of teaching and the provision of resources
and facilities are needed [2]. This
chapter advocates for the potential of technology to provide more flexible and
student centred education that will meet the needs of diverse learners.
Technology can greatly enhance project work and problem based learning. The use
of technology to promote peer feedback and self assessment can make a
significant contribution to broadening the cognitive and affective development
of the student teacher. This chapter will examine in detail the potential for
technology to enhance the critical thinking of students and facilitate them to
adopt more empowered and autonomous learning behaviours. Drawing on a two year
project the chapter will demonstrate the effectiveness of the use of ICT in
encouraging higher order thinking. It will make the case that exposure to this
form of education may encourage future teachers to challenge traditional
understanding of the teacher’s role and encourage the development of teachers
who are committed to empowering education for their students.