7 Trends in Education Technology (That is Rocking the World)

Distance Learning

Events such as the COVID-19 lockdowns have shown the importance of effective distance learning.  Online communications platforms like Zoom and Skype are enhancing online classes. So, universities can now onboard students from around the world. Students that cannot make it to school due to disabilities or any other issue can now learn from home.

To aid in distance learning, UNESCO has many remote learning applications. These resources have a wide reach, strong user-base and evidence of impact. You learn to type online as well as pick up many other useful skills.

Accessibility to Education Technology

EdTech has expanded access to education globally. With internet access, you can use devices like phones, tablets, laptops, and computers to study. This has made education very affordable and, often you can even learn for free. Even with limited internet access, you can learn using eBooks, videos, radio, and television.

EdTech is also embracing learners with disabilities. There are solutions and tools for students with learning challenges like reading, hearing or seeing.

Immersive and Experiential Learning

Immersive learning happens through a realistic simulated artificial environment. It includes images and sounds that elicit a multisensory experience. EdTech tools used to effect immersive and experiential learning include augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). There is also a third level where AR and VR combine to provide a mixed reality (MR) learning experience.

Immersive learning follows Edgar Dale’s “Cone of Learning” model. He argues that students learn more by doing rather than listening, reading or observing.

Personalized Learning

Personalized learning is becoming the norm in education. Today, the teacher does not know it all. A collaborative approach to learning with the participation of teachers and learners is, therefore, becoming common. The result is a flipped classroom and blended learning. This is where students have some flexibility of where, when and what to learn.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is making learning more personalized through software that adapts to a student’s individual abilities. Tools such as storytelling, writing, digital education, and assessments all make AI more impactful and beneficial.

Data Insights Into Education Technology

A lot of data is collected from automated tracking and evaluation of students’ performance and engagement with digital learning models.  Such knowledge gained from ‘big data’ is changing digital education. Data showing the effectiveness of machine learning has catapulted AI to new levels of global acceptance. This has led to the establishment of several machine learning companies and some are moving to Phoenix.

Digital Citizenship Programs

Teaching good digital citizenship is another EdTech trend. Students learn the art and science of productive and responsible internet interaction. Awareness of cyberbullying, integrity and plagiarism are some of the main subjects. Time management and self-organization are also stressed. Students are also taught to avoid distractions and indulgence on the internet.

Key Takeaway

Emerging EdTech trends in 2020 show a humanistic approach to applying the latest technologies. Additionally, there is a focus on connectivity, versatility, and student-centered learning. So the aim is on educating the whole child and improving our quality of life. For more information on startups  such as how to use ppc marketing do read the rest of our blogs

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