Published on June 21st, 2019
The implementation of several technologies within the education sector has contributed to the creation of more opportunities for both learners and teachers. Professors from various learning institutions have openly welcomed the idea of the multiple ways they can effectively integrate different technologies into their classes. Students are also more eager to learn with technology.
Today, the implementation of technology in various learning institutions is evident, such as in the use of braille machines, and other technologies used in special needs programs.
Even though many schools today are using different types of technologies to facilitate learning, its implementation is still low. Technology can be an essential tool, especially when trying to connect with the youth and also as a teaching resource.
Technology has helped students and teachers overcome geographical barriers, and also facilitates the development of long distance and mobile learning through the creation of virtual classrooms offering online courses and essay writers services.
Also, the continued implementation of educational technologies has paved the way for digital learning tools such as laptops, smartphones, iPads, and many more.
10 Ways Technology Has Affected Modern Education
To better understand why the use of technology for both instructional and educational purposes is a good idea, here are ten ways in which technology has impacted modern learning.
1. Actively Interacting With Learning Materials
With technology, students are actively involved in the learning process, such that they learn from interacting, exploring, and collecting feedback. This helps students to be more passionate in their learning.
2. Sensitization To Real-world Issues
Technology has opened up the world through the internet. Now students can relate to real-world events that are related to their classroom lessons. This provides a better understanding of the lessons taught in class because they have a better reference point.
3. Modelling And Simulation
Technology has helped introduce learners to simulation software and models such as the moon’s orbit, sound waves, etc. which would have otherwise been taught with just diagrams/ static models. It allows students to experience these events and get a better understanding of how they operate.
4. Discussion Boards And Forums
Through various technologies, students can create virtual communities/ online groups with a common goal from any part of the world, provided they have a stable connection. These groups can be used for any number of activities, such as sharing concerns about their lessons or giving feedback about certain aspects of their learning. This is also an opportunity for students from different cultural and social backgrounds to interact.
5. Promotes Personal Learning Initiative
Technological learning tools like laptops, smartphones, etc. have helped students to discover and learn new concepts that are not taught in class. You can also look for various solutions for an already existing problem on your own.
6. Group Dynamics
Technology has also fostered the need for students to work together. No longer does a student need to be on their own. Technology has introduced various group activities, such as debates and discussions that facilitate the development of healthy group dynamics.
7. Allows Teachers To Take On Different Approaches
With technology, teachers can effectively guide each student rather than just offer lectures. Students benefit by getting additional skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, decision making, and researching, among others.
8. Provides An Avenue For Formative Assessment
Teachers are tasked with ensuring that students learn not only various concepts but also how to use and maintain the resources around them.
9. Easier Access To Educational Resources
Technology has opened up education for many students who previously could not afford it. Most learning resources worldwide are kept in the free domain, making them readily accessible to anyone in need.
10. Promotes Creativity And Innovation Among Students
The integration of technology within classrooms increases a student’s classroom involvement that in the long run, will boost their learning capacity, creativity, and innovation.
Technology has undoubtedly redefined the way we view education as well as in other aspects of our lives. However, many learning institutions have reported facing an uphill task when integrating technology into their normal learning processes.
This is mainly because most teachers have not yet learned the relationship that exists between various teaching methods and related educational techniques. It has also been attributed to pedagogical beliefs among teachers.
Overall, we can all accept that technology is integral to many sectors of today’s economies. Its incorporation into education systems holds great promise for both students and teachers concerning the increase in effectiveness and efficiency in addressing the many issues that affect the learning processes.