According to an in-depth examination by Forbes, the post-COVID world has seen a notable and lasting increase in the adoption of education technology (EdTech). As schools around the world reopen, the essential role of technology in facilitating and enhancing learning is becoming even more apparent.
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Key Takeaways:
- Technology has become a common feature in classrooms across states, with almost every classroom featuring a digital tool such as a computer screen or projector.
- Rather than using technology to overhaul teaching models, most schools are incorporating new technologies into their existing systems and norms.
- The surge in the use of digital learning tools was not initiated by the pandemic. Instead, COVID-19 simply expedited a transition that had already been underway.
Ubiqitous Digital Tools & Augmented Traditional Teaching Models
In the survey of nearly 100 classrooms across three states, technology’s presence was ubiquitous. Conor Williams shared his observations:
“I don’t recall seeing a single one without a computer screen projected onto the board at the front of the room.”
This illustrates how digital learning tools, such as computer screens and projectors, are now a common feature in classrooms, transforming the conventional learning environment.
Despite this expansive adoption of digital technology, the essential structures of schooling remain largely consistent. Age-graded classrooms, whole-class instruction, and a teacher conducting lessons at the ‘front’ of the room are still typical features of education. However, technology has taken the place of traditional tools like blackboards. It’s not so much about completely changing the way we teach but adding a new layer to existing models and practices.
The Concept of ‘Cramming’ Technology
This addition of technology into traditional classrooms is what has been termed ‘cramming’. As described in the book ‘Disrupting Class’:
“when most organizations (in all sectors) confront a new technology, their initial instinct is to try and deploy it to do the things for which their existing model is already optimized.”
In essence, while new technology can increase efficiency and allow schools to undertake additional tasks, it doesn’t in and of itself reinvent the teaching model. Schools have mainly used technology to support their existing processes and norms, rather than to overhaul the system entirely.
Conclusion
The shift towards digital learning, according to the analysis, was not initiated by COVID-19 but rather accelerated by it. This transition had already been in motion for some time, and while significant strides have been made, we still have a long journey ahead for a truly disruptive transformation in education. As the education landscape continues to change and adapt, the persistent role of technology in classrooms remains clear. Schools may continue to merge technology into their current structures and systems, but there is also immense potential for technology to inspire more profound changes in the future.
Harnessing EdTech for Personalized Learning
With the increasingly widespread use of educational technology (EdTech), the possibilities for individualized, or personalized learning are expanding rapidly. Personalized learning refers to the practice of tailoring education to meet each student’s unique needs, learning style, and pace. It empowers students, giving them a level of control over the what, when, and how of their learning.
EdTech holds the potential to greatly enhance this type of learning. With smart algorithms, it can adapt to a student’s progress, providing tailored resources, activities, and assessments to meet their unique needs and preferences. As such, EdTech can help to bring the power of personalized learning to more students, delivering education that is truly learner-centered.
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