Adapting to a Tech Based Education World

Technology Shaping Education: Current and Upcoming Changes

Although many schools have re-opened partially or even fully, home-based learning still continues in many schools. Adapting to a tech-based education world hasn't been easy for some schools and teachers. However, with new products and services readily available, there is a great potential for technology to improve education. To get an idea of what to expect, these are some of the technologies which are up and coming and could change education significantly in the future.

Augmented Reality

Although this technology is still emerging, it offers great options in the classroom. AR capabilities will allow users to view additional information over what they can see through a lens. This access is currently mostly limited to some smartphone apps, but expansion is expected. Apps such as Sky Maps will allow users to scout the sky at night to look for constellations. Blending information with reality can be a useful tool for teaching as it helps to cement learning for students.

As more AR-enabled devices become commonplace, expect to see students being able to explore any number of areas without needing to hold up a device. A simple version of this could enter the classroom setting in the next few years.

Virtual Field Trips

While in-person field trips are always great for students, there are some locations that simply aren't practical. However, with so many museums and attractions offering virtual tours today, expect to see this expansion into the classroom in coming years. You'll probably always have field trips in-person, but virtual trips allow students to tour amazing places like the Louvre without having to leave their homes.

In some cases, these field trips will also have information that supplements what students can view on the tour. This will help with the learning of the trip.

3D Printing

What's better than a toy set for your child? How about having a 3D printer that's specifically made for kids? A 3D printer is going to be an essential tool in the classroom. Instead of being limited to what they can play with and create, students will be able make their own 3D models for a number of reasons, such as show and tell. Students in a wide variety of areas can benefit from this technology, but it may be especially beneficial for science and math classes.

A 3D printer can produce a working mini model to test out new designs so students can work on perfecting these small models before making the actual larger item. Working with computer-aided design software, 3D printing will allow students to experiment with their designs. This may also be helpful for teachers who want to build models for their students but don't have the time or skills to make their own models. They can use a 3D printer to create small models for students to gain a hands-on experience.

Cloud Computing

This technology is expanding in almost every area and has changed many aspects of society, especially education. Some cities have already installed cloud computing devices in their schools. In the classrooms of the future, students may simply need a device in order to access their homework as well as all the resources that they need through the cloud computing. This means that students may not have to carry their textbooks to school anymore. Having constant and easy access to reading materials will be possible with just an internet connection required.

This will not only help students who may be absent-minded and forget their materials. Additionally, this convenience will allow students to work on projects anywhere and anytime. The digital library can be accessible even when the campus library is closed. In fact, students can even skip going to the physical library if desired.

Online Social Networking

When it comes to schooling, students also need to know how to communicate and socialize with their classmates. This can be a great tool for learning, especially for group projects and discussions. Online virtual worlds offer a platform for students to have these discussions while teachers can be present to moderate. This is an empowering notion since it will encourage learners to understand that their education is a personal undertaking.

For classes and teaching methods where collaboration is needed, social networking tools have and will continue to be used to enhance good collaboration and team-building plans. Teachers can still be present and provide guidance in these areas.

Flexible Displays

Note taking has become the norm but there will probably be a change from taking notes by hand to taking them via tablets or computers. Educational settings are becoming more digitalized but how are classrooms reconciling the differences among a pen and paper versus the screen? One of the solutions is going to be OLED-based displays. These are similar to regular paper and can be rolled up or folded easily. However, unlike paper, they are durable and interactive. Digital paper prototypes are already in development.

Biometrics

With a strong desire to prevent cheating and skipping school, the introduction of biometrics in school has helped to improve the education process. To enhance education, facial recognition, fingerprints, and even eye tracking are just a few of the methods that schools are using to streamline operations. As more students are learning from home, these technologies are being used to ensure that they perform their work and are present for classes. Teachers can also use eye tracking methods to monitor how well students are learning content. This allows them to change and modify their lessons if their students are struggling.

With almost every student and household today having access to the internet, there has been an increase in technological innovations in this sector. Ideas are spreading quickly, and people are interested in using more technology in education. Technology companies have responded to this demand by offering student-friendly options to enhance learning and meet education needs. These are a few of the technologies that are going to change the future of education. Some of these technologies have already been adapted but may also be in development. In the coming years, it's likely that the classroom will look like a much different place.