English (USA)
We were honoured to welcome a group of education leaders from Scotland to our global headquarters in Calgary for the Scotland Summit—an immersive exchange centered on innovation, collaboration, and reimagining the future of learning.
Throughout the visit, the delegation explored SMART’s latest education technology developments and had a closer look at how an education-first mindset informs the design and development of our tools. More than just showcasing features, the sessions sparked rich conversations about how technology can support real-world teaching and learning needs.
What stood out most were the shared values and challenges. As the Scottish leaders spoke candidly about pressures around policy shifts, limited budgets, and staff capacity, it was clear that these aren’t isolated concerns. From Glasgow to Calgary, educators are grappling with how best to support blended learning, enhance student engagement, and ensure staff feel equipped and confident using digital tools.
In breakout sessions and group discussions, conversations often turned practical: making better use of existing tech, closing gaps in digital skills, and addressing fast-evolving questions around AI. The group explored how AI could support teaching—if approached with care. Ethical considerations, transparency, and putting educators first were recurring themes, and we shared how those ideas are shaping our ongoing work in this space.
There was also growing curiosity around immersive tools like AR and VR. Some visitors saw AR as a more accessible step toward immersive learning, especially when it can be integrated with the devices teachers and students already use. Examples using SMART’s integration with platforms like ThingLink helped ground those possibilities in everyday practice.
Discussions about open education and collaboration surfaced too. Delegates spoke of the challenges posed by siloed resources and competing priorities—and the need for systems and technologies that foster connection, not fragmentation. These conversations reinforced the shared goal of building learning environments where people, tools, and ideas work together in meaningful ways.
As the summit came to a close, what remained was a sense of mutual learning. We were grateful for the openness, insight, and thoughtfulness of the Scottish delegation—and inspired by the common purpose that emerged across borders: creating inclusive, impactful learning experiences that help every student thrive.
Hear their reflections and see the summit in action: