Why Digital Technologies Should Be In Your 2025 Planning
As kaiako and kura in Aotearoa, we hold a vital responsibility: to provide quality educational opportunities in all curriculum areas. In 2025, one area that deserves special attention is Digital Technologies (DT). Here's why DT is not just an add-on but an essential part of the learning journey for tamariki.
1. Meeting Curriculum Obligations
Under the New Zealand Curriculum, we are obligated to offer comprehensive learning experiences across all areas, including Digital Technologies. The Digital Technologies | Hangarau Matihiko curriculum area isn't just another box to tick—it's a dynamic and essential part of preparing our tamariki (children) for a future where digital literacy is as vital as reading and writing.
According to the Ministry of Education:
“The goal of this change is to ensure that all learners have the opportunity to become digitally capable individuals. The change provides a greater focus on students building their skills so they can be innovative creators of digital solutions, moving beyond solely being users and consumers of digital technologies.” – TKI
By integrating DT into your 2025 planning, you’re not only meeting curriculum requirements but also empowering your students to become creators and innovators, ready to navigate and shape the digital world.
2. Building Digital Literacy and Fluency
We’ve all faced the frustration of students struggling with basic digital tasks, from logging in to navigating educational tools. Investing in digital literacy skills not only eases this friction but also builds independence and opens doors to a world of digital learning opportunities.
Digital fluency isn't just about knowing how to use devices—it’s about understanding how digital systems work and being able to navigate them confidently. By embedding DT education, you’re equipping your students with essential skills that enhance their learning experiences across all subjects.
3. DT as a Tool for Learning
Digital Technologies aren’t just the destination; they’re the vehicle for deeper, more engaging learning experiences. DT can be integrated across all learning areas, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Whether it’s coding a story in literacy or using simulations in science, DT offers endless possibilities for interactive, student-centred learning.
4. High Engagement and Natural Curiosity
Tamariki are surrounded by technology every day, so it’s no wonder they show high engagement when learning about how things work behind the screens. Digital Technologies tap into this natural curiosity, turning it into a powerful tool for educational growth. By leveraging their enthusiasm for digital devices, you can build a more dynamic and interactive classroom environment where students are empowered to create and grow. We advocate for supporting students to move from just being tech users and consumers to creators and innovators.
5. Future-Proofing Tamariki with Essential Skills
The world is evolving at a rapid pace, with digital skills becoming a necessity in almost every industry. By integrating DT education into your curriculum, you’re preparing your students not just for the next school year but for the digital economy they’ll one day enter.
The future workforce will demand digital fluency, problem-solving skills, and the ability to innovate with technology. By making DT a priority in 2025, you’re ensuring that your tamariki are not just participants but leaders in the future digital landscape.
Join Us in Shaping the Future of Education
At Digital Future Aotearoa, we are dedicated to empowering educators and students with the tools and resources needed for digital excellence. Whether through our Code Club, Digital Pīkau, or Ōtautahi Outreach programmes, we’re here to support you on this journey.
When you’re ready to dive into Digital Technologies, explore the Digital Pīkau to access free, ready-made activities designed to bring Aotearoa-specific digital learning to life in your classroom.
Empower the Next Generation
Ignite a lifelong love of learning and innovation. Plan for Digital Technologies in 2025. Connect with us to access resources, support, and community initiatives that will help your kura lead the way in digital technologies education.
Together, we can create digitally capable individuals ready to thrive in the digital world.
“The goal of this change is to ensure that all learners have the opportunity to become digitally capable individuals. The change provides a greater focus on students building their skills so they can be innovative creators of digital solutions, moving beyond solely being users and consumers of digital technologies.”
