Further resources for those who want professional development in information and learning technologies, plus improved signposting to existing material, are due to be announced at the Learning and Technology World Forum, which runs in London, January 11-13.

Speaking ahead of the conference, Jane Williams, executive director for further education, skills and regeneration at the Government’s education technology agency Becta, said: “Teachers and trainers themselves recognise that they have unmet needs around technology and ICT. We are not talking basic IT skills here but professional pedagogical skills.”

She said details were unavailable at this stage. She also said Becta and the Learning and Skills Council would be announcing an extension of their Technology Exemplar Network.

The network, which currently comprises 16 colleges selected for their effective use of learning technologies, is expected to double in size, with members sharing best practice.

Some 750 delegates from around the world are due to attend the forum, hosted by the Department for Business Innovation and Skills and the Department for Children, Schools and Families and organised by Becta. Speakers include Charles Leadbeater, a former government adviser and visiting fellow at Oxford University’s Said Business School, Elizabeth M King, director of education at the World Bank, First Secretary Lord Mandelson and Education Secretary Ed Balls.

The forum precedes the BETT Show, the world’s biggest educational technology event, which runs at London’s Olympia, January 13-16.