2026

New research centre to help new technologies make a difference in classrooms and lecture theatres

5 February 2026

Cardiff Met has launched the Centre for International Research in Interactive Technologies for Teaching and Learning (CIRITTL) - a hub for research, collaboration and innovation in how technology can enhance teaching and learning.

Three members of staff for the Centre for International Research in Interactive Technologies for Teaching and Learning stand either side of an information display

The CIRITTL builds on Cardiff Met’s collaborative projects, including Erasmus+ and the Wales Collaborative for Learning Design (WCLD).

CIRITTL also builds on existing international partnerships and the REF 2021 Impact Case Study 'Improving educators’ use of technology in language teaching across Europe and Eurasia' to develop understanding of what works with technology in teaching and learning.

Nick Young is a Senior Lecturer in Primary Education Studies at Cardiff Metropolitan University and will lead on CIRITTL. Nick said: “The long-term aim of CIRITTL is to build a strong, practical evidence base that supports educators, institutions and policymakers in making informed decisions about technology in learning. By working collaboratively across Wales and internationally, the centre will help ensure that innovation leads to meaningful, inclusive and sustainable improvements in education.”

At the recent launch event for CIRITTL, a series of research taster talks were held highlighting the diversity and creativity of current projects, including:

Dr Julian Ayres (Wrexham University) - 'From Slate to Screen: Primary Learning building interactive heritage resources through 360 and green screen tools'
Professor Jeff Lewis (Cardiff Met) - SpaceFlow: Immersive Mental Health Support
Professor Sarah Curran (Cardiff Met) - Tracking the Clinical Gaze: How Foot Wound Moulage Shapes Learning and Teaching
Dr Sammy Chapman (Cardiff Met) - Our School Through Our Eyes: Using Interactive 360° Photos in a Special School Setting.

These projects illustrate CIRITTL’s commitment to exploring interactive technologies across contexts, from immersive VR for wellbeing to eye-tracking in clinical education and learner-led 360° experiences in schools.

“This centre is about making sure new technologies actually make a difference in real classrooms, lecture theatres and learning spaces. By grounding innovation in research and collaboration, CIRITTL will help educators feel more confident, capable and informed in how they use technology to support learning,” Nick added.

CIRITTL is now recruiting representatives from each of Cardiff Met’s five Schools where input will be vital in shaping the direction of the centre and ensuring it is connected across all areas.

To learn more about CIRITTL, including the Centre’s mission, aims, leadership group and meetings, visit the Centre for International Research in Interactive Technologies for Teaching and Learning website.