Edukata is based on over a decade of experience on design-based research and has been empirically proven to produce results that change how schools and teachers work.
Design-based research
Edukata has been developed by the Learning Environments research group of Aalto University. The group’s approach to research and design is theory-based but design-oriented. This means that besides the academic research papers the outcomes of the group are often software systems, software prototypes, applications and scenarios.
The group’s works are based on the social constructivist theory that sees learning as a participation in social processes of knowledge construction. The members of the group come from very different backgrounds covering education, computer science and design, but they all share the same pedagogical thinking.
Dr. Teemu Leinonen’s dissertation Designing Learning Tools – Methodological Insights has more details and references.
Empirical evidence
The Edukata process is based on an empirically tested design methodology. During the years 2011- 2013, learning activities designed with the Edukata process were piloted in over 17 European countries and in over 2000 classrooms. These activities were found to positively impact teaching, learning and attainment and to foster 21st century skills. Some references:
- Papers and articles published in the iTEC project
- Evaluations of the iTEC classroom pilots using learning activities designed using the Edukata process by professional designers
During the fall 2013, teachers around Europe will be using the Edukata process independently. Results of these pilots will be published as they become available.