K15: Current and Emerging Digital Technologies and the Possible Implications for Work on a Support Desk Including the Impacts of Digital Technologies for Climate Change, Sustainability and Moving to Net Carbon Zero
Assessment Method: Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio
Plain-English Explanation
K15 is about understanding the latest and upcoming digital technologies (like cloud computing, AI, automation, and collaboration tools) and how they affect your role on a support desk. It also includes knowing how these technologies impact sustainability and help organizations move toward net zero carbon emissions.
Examples of How Apprentices Demonstrate This at Work
Explaining how cloud services reduce the need for physical servers and energy use
Using Power Automate to streamline workflows and reduce paper-based processes
Supporting colleagues in adopting new tools like Microsoft Teams or SharePoint
Researching and sharing information on emerging tech like AI chatbots for customer support
Suggesting digital solutions that reduce travel and printing, supporting sustainability goals
Common Gaps and Misconceptions
Thinking emerging tech is only relevant to IT specialists—support roles must adapt too
Believing sustainability is separate from digital work, when tech choices impact energy use
Ignoring the need to keep learning as technologies evolve
Assuming automation replaces jobs rather than changes how we work
Links to Resources and Tools
Podcast: Digital Tech and Net Zero (Insert your podcast link here)
Why It Matters
Keeps your skills relevant as technology evolves
Helps organizations meet sustainability and climate goals
Improves efficiency and reduces environmental impact
Portfolio Evidence Ideas
Screenshots of:
A Power Automate flow that reduces manual or paper-based processes
A report or presentation on emerging technologies and their benefits
A short write-up explaining how a new technology improved efficiency or sustainability
Evidence of supporting colleagues in adopting new digital tools
EPA-Style Questions
What emerging digital technologies do you think will impact support roles the most?
How can digital technologies help organizations achieve sustainability goals?
Can you give an example of how you used technology to reduce environmental impact?
Embedded Topics
Equality & Diversity: Ensuring new technologies are accessible to all users
Sustainability: Reducing energy use and waste through digital solutions
British Values: Promoting responsibility and innovation in adopting new technologies