How New Technological Advancements Will Shape Education In The Years To Come?
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As educators, we have moved away from discussing whether technology is important to now harnessing its power to make teaching and learning more effective. And thank god for that! We have spent too much time in discussions first proposing its merits, to then worrying about its dangers and finally, we have reached the middle path to realize technology as an enabler can be controlled and directed if we are responsible enough! Now with that foundation ... we hope to reap the benefits of its obvious advantages.
So what does that mean for the future - for all of us as parents, students and teachers guiding the next generation?
Many good things!!!
Data captured in any form be it diagnostic or informative can provide educators with a deeper understanding of what possible solutions and strategies can emerge to enhance teaching and learning. Real-time feedback, more creative assignments, strategic interventions when students stuck, virtual classrooms, connecting two classrooms through broadband, live chats makes learning more interactive and ‘real’.
For teachers, using apps, and discussion boards so much real-time input can be availed making the whole planning process more seamless and effective. Also, exchange of ideas thanks to chatting forums, zoom etc makes information transfer quick and adds tremendous value to the overall quality.
Technology in the near future will aid cognitive ability and decision making simply because data archived can be retraced and analyzed and important modifications for customization and differentiation becomes easier.
This is across subjects - while teaching students about track and field, and strategies about ‘being off the blocks’ with a quick start to ‘pacing’ can be analyzed not simply by showing videos but using ‘hot’ spots, and speed comparisons and mapping this to every athlete etc. Khan Academy Bijus have paved way for learning recap effectively, as have online math games that cater to the child’s learning levels, setting them up for success as they ‘solve’ the problem and get ‘cheatnotes’ to decode when they are stuck. DIY science experiments can assume a virtual representation even for the most remote schools and ‘make it come alive’ with simulations!
Have you ever tried an online Monopoly game? Remember our days of rolling those fingers to get a ‘double’ - the game has evolved to now self-learning tools of negotiations as you ‘trade’ - all aiding the learning process.
From creating presentations using a range of graphic organizers available readily, the old days of a ppt are replaced by more powerful and engaging applications that drive home the point quickly and effectively!
Technological advances present a world of opportunities and used strategically at the age-appropriate milestones makes the future an exciting one. The key will be responsible usage and bring in a balance that combines the best of the past and the best of the future.
As educators, we embrace these with open arms and perhaps our job is more challenging as we continue to be the native users and we have a fair way to go before we are like a fish in water with technology. The truth is, our children already are and therefore, it is time we teach them the way they will understand better than hold on to our traditions!
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