Roundtable: the case for an Information and Education Sciences Research Council

Name: Roundtable: the case for an Information and Education Sciences Research Council
Start: 2026-01-28T14:00:00
End: 2026-01-28T17:00:00
Location: techUK, 10 St Bride Street, London, EC4A 4AD

2pm – 5pm 28 January 2026 London techUK, 10 St Bride Street, London, EC4A 4AD

The educational technology sector sits in an awkward space between education and ICT, and as a result rarely receives the same regard as more established research fields. This lack of parity of esteem is reflected in the absence of strong institutional architecture, which limits scientific confidence, policy alignment and investment.

This roundtable, held in collaboration with techUK, Weypoint, and EdTech Hub, is part of an early discovery process. Policy makers, practitioners and industry partners will come together to examine the current evidence, identify the barriers that hold the sector back, and consider whether a new Education Informatics Research Council could offer a constructive way forward. The session will test the strength of the case and surface other possible approaches that might support a healthier research base and better conditions for growth.

Attendance is limited and as such we welcome requests from participants who are ready to share experience and help shape the inquiry.

Austin Earl

Programme Manager, Education and EdTech, techUK

Education and EdTech Programme activities

techUK’s Education and EdTech programme seeks to address this challenges by bridging the gap between education, the tech industry, and policymakers. We ensure that education institutions can effectively adopt technology that enhances learning, streamlines operations, and supports skills development. Visit the programme page here