Technology is a great tool to make education not just quicker but also a lot more engaging and fun. With the use of technology, young and old alike can be motivated to learn. Using games, apps and other programs will entice the younger generation and keep them hooked whereas the use of online peer groups and interactive projects will keep the older ones engaged. Several schools are using notepads and iPads for conducting app-based learning programs within the school. Many of these apps are created to help students with STEM subjects i.e. science, technology, engineering and mathematics. However, apps are being developed for learning languages as well. Whatever the age of a student, technology is a great aid in augmenting his/her learning journey.
Peer Group Learning Edge EdTech
Researches, as well as reports from educators and professionals, have shown that technology enhances the learning experience of a student whether it is in a classroom or outside it. Moreover, the ability to form peer groups online and to work with them on projects and assignments is also beneficial to the learning. Not only do groups mean more involvement in the given assignment or project, but different people also bring in a different perspective to a group. Thus, in a group, people often find more effective solutions. Often times, the group working together on a technology-based project may meet to discuss the issues in the project. It is important that people, especially young learners, do not spend too much time in front of the computer or app screen. They need time away from the screen to engage in regular work or play. Working in groups enables them to do that as well.
Use of games and other online tools
Many parents and educators are not enthused by the idea of introducing technology for learning for their children and students. They argue that technology makes children lethargic and they tend to spend all their time in front of a screen of some kind thereby reducing their physical activity and affecting their health. While these arguments are not baseless, not all apps and games are meant to keep students glued to their screens. There are apps such as Quizlet that test the child’s mental aptitude as well as general knowledge. It inculcates the do-it-yourself spirit in the child by making them create several engaging tools such as flashcards to use in their learning process. Similarly, the Wii fit is an online program that helps students to stay fit by doing certain fitness exercises or activities on the Wii Balance Board peripheral. Kahoot! is another game-based learning platform that makes learning active and engaging. Using Kahoot! one can create apps for student learning, their assignments or apps for business learning purposes. There are several other engaging ways to learn and ideas for the same are available across sites such as Pinterest and Twitter.
Notepads and iPads
They are portable and easy to use and children and older people both love to use them. Notepads and iPads are interesting tools that can make learning engaging within and outside the classroom. A large number of apps and games require an Android or iOS platform to run smoothly. With notepads and iPads that platform is available easily. Many classrooms across several countries, including India, have introduced the use of notepads or iPads. There are several low-priced and free apps, built specifically for these platforms, which aid in student learning. Apps such as Hopscotch help young students between grades 4 and 6 to learn coding and technology. There are apps like Duolingo, especially for learning languages. NASA Visualization Explorer and other such apps are available free of cost to teachers to help aid their students’ learning process.
Future Classrooms
The future classrooms are almost here. There are projectors, notepads and other audio-visual aids in classrooms already. In the coming years, many schools will deploy artificial intelligence and machine learning the classrooms. Virtual reality has already been tested in certain classrooms in the U.S. It would not be long before students use all these new tools and technologies to enhance their learning experiences. With virtual reality, students will not have to wait for knowing how a certain thing might look or feel, they would be able to see the same in 3D using virtual reality in classrooms. This will greatly enhance their learning experience. As of now, audio-visual tools used in classrooms are extremely helpful. For students who are older, TED Talks are a great way to introduce them to a particular topic.
Education technology is a field that offers a variety of jobs as schools lookout for trainers trained in the use of specific techniques and tools. There are various online professional certificate courses that can help young professionals grab their spot in the edtech industry.
More Information:
Importance of E-learning in India
What is the Online Learning System?
Tips That Can Help You Make the Best of E-Learning Platforms