Technology Triggering Transformation In Education Sector

Quality education not only equips a student with life-shaping knowledge but also encourages one to explore and harness growth opportunities for oneself and society at large. Since the outbreak of the pandemic, many unprecedented events have happened in India’s education landscape. Indeed, whenever a sector demands some improvements in quality and deliverables, it is the technology of the time that assures the rest. 

Currently, the most challenging task for educationists is preparing students to live in a highly volatile world and improving their receptivity towards every fruitful change. Now, the problem is not the content, but what should be given to a particular student; education needs to be customized. We need to identify their mistakes and weaknesses and must help them with the right solutions. On the cusp of the change, the industry needs to evolve with a customized education. Artificial learning (AI) and machine learning (ML) enabled teachers to analyze students’ weaknesses from their inputs on various knowledge-sharing platforms. 

To maintain pace with the changing time, the education sector of India is also reshaping itself with cutting-edge technologies such as AI, ML, IoT, and Blockchain. And, it wouldn’t be an exaggeration to claim that the education sector of India has already welcomed the Education 4.0 revolution for inclusive learning and better employability. 

Technological developments the education industry has witnessed in the last couple of years:  

Beginning of customized learning 

The modern system of education in India is embracing Continuous and Accelerated Learning (CAL), which is a useful blend of traditional and advanced methods of imparting knowledge. The CAL system is quite popular in Europe, especially in the UK, and many progressive institutions of India have adopted CAL after its proven results in the UK. 

Advanced technologies such as AI and Cloud Computing with the help of smart tech tools like Seesaw (a digital portfolio with built-in creative tools) and Soundtrap (a cloud-based recording studio) are making personalized learning more interesting as well as engaging. Intelligent course modules and evaluation methods are helping teachers to develop customized plans for each student in the classroom. And, the special attention of each teacher is creating a cooperative environment of learning in all those modern institutions which are proactive in availing AI-based learning. Such methodologies allow students to understand the basal concepts and topics and voluntarily choose a particular sub-field to enhance skills and gain knowledge which increases their employability in the long run.

Smart content, better learning

The most effective method to regain students’ interest in the study is smart content. Gen-Z has so many learning options which are easy, engaging, and enjoyable. Modern educational institutions are providing their students with customized textbooks for every subject and topic to improve their understanding, and cognitive as well as analytical skills. And, with the easy availability of innovative apps such as Netex Learning, teachers can support their lectures with games, quizzes, and animated videos. 

Smart content is emancipating students from passive methods of learning. Blended Learning, comprising BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) and Flipped Classrooms techniques is providing students with a hands-on learning experience. Project-based learning improves their time management skills, organizational skills and collaboration skills. Project-based learning increases students’ involvement and gives them an incentive to learn the necessary skills. 

Education for enhanced employability 

Education isn’t simply about imparting knowledge; it’s a comprehensive process of transforming liabilities into assets. Every year millions of students get degrees from engineering colleges, but more than 50 per cent of them remain unemployed. Indeed, the root of the problem lies in the education system, which is not able to suffice the changing needs of the job market. According to the National Association of Software and Services Companies (Nasscom), there was a shortfall of around 140,000 skilled techies for 500,000 IT-related jobs that affected the IT industry’s performance in 2018. Today, companies want to hire engineers who are ready to do the job rather than a freshman who needs six months to one year of extensive training in how to do the job. To fill the demand and supply gap in the market and to cater to the industry with job-ready professionals, many educational institutions in India are laying a strong emphasis on imparting practical and relevant knowledge.

As technology is going to lead the future, industry stakeholders should work on customized and hybrid content because interactive content and engaging teaching methodologies can make learning rather interesting and effective for students. Many leading players in the sector have already started integrating technology to provide customized solutions to each student. And, those who are reluctant to change are facing evident ramifications. 

Nitin Viijay

Guest Author The author is Founder and CEO of Motion Education