The rise of technology has affected every aspect of our lives, and education is no different. In some ways, it seems like the same concept has been around for a long time. In modern classrooms, teachers deliver their lessons from a podium located at the front of the room. Students sit in rows and listen as the teacher talks. Some of them seem to be following along with the books in front of them, while others are talking to their neighbors. Modern students are more likely to use their mobile devices instead of books.
Accessibility
In addition to improving the quality of education, technology has greatly expanded its availability. During medieval times, only a few individuals had access to education and had to travel to learning centers to obtain it. Today, people have access to various educational resources and programs through the Internet. Online learning is also becoming more popular, and various forms of formal learning are available through programs such as the Khan Academy.
Collaboration
The rise of technology has also greatly expanded the opportunities for collaboration and communication. In the past, collaboration was restricted to students in the same building or classroom. With the help of technology, these types of activities are now possible. In rural areas in the U.S., students can learn about the Arctic through an expedition carried out by a group of scientists. Through the internet, they can follow the expedition, read the scientists’ blog postings, and talk to them through a video conference. They can also share their learning with other students in similar states. With the help of technology, students can now collaborate on projects using various tools, such as Google Docs and wikis. The walls of classrooms are no longer barriers as students can now use technology to improve their learning.
Instructional Methods
The power of technology can transform the way education is conducted. It can help teachers create instructional materials that are easier to use, and it can enable people to collaborate and learn together. The rise of the internet and the availability of smart devices are some of the factors that have led to the emergence of a new age of education.
It is up to the designers and engineers of educational technology to take advantage of the opportunities presented by technological advancements to make the most of them and improve how education is taught.