How can we incorporate the use of more smart technologies in our classroom practice? This is the question going round my head following a fantastic keynote speech by Professor Tanya Byron at last week’s Specialist Schools and Academies Trust conference.

Rather than railing against their clandestine use under our tables and getting into confrontations trying to confiscate them, why aren’t we using them to motivate and engage our young people?

During the conference, I was staggered by how many colleagues were using BlackBerries, iPhones and other smart devices. Had I asked, I’m sure they would have said they needed to be in contact or were waiting for an email. Where have I heard that before?

Surely we should embrace new technologies and start thinking differently about how we can use them to enhance lessons?

Tom Dore, Director of maths and science, John Madejski Academy, Reading.