The advent of technology has profoundly impacted various facets of human existence, encompassing communication, work, recreation, and e-commerce. It is unsurprising that the advancements in digital technology are also paving the way for transformative opportunities in education. Termed “EdTech,” this practice involves integrating information and communication technology tools and solutions into the classroom to create a personalized and all-inclusive educational environment.
EdTech has witnessed a steady surge in the period between 2010 and 2019. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic has remarkably accelerated the pace of growth in the EdTech industry. As such, it’s imperative to explore the educational technologies that have gained popularity in recent years and assess their benefits. Below, we’ll elaborate on tech’s role in transforming and benefitting today’s education sector.
1. Increased Access to Education
The emergence of connected classrooms through integrating the Internet of Things (IoT) and the availability of open-access learning management systems (LMS) has enabled students to have complete access to the digital classroom, irrespective of location. It has catered to the student’s inclination towards on-demand learning, characterized by the desire to learn “when I want, where I want.” The development of educational technology (EdTech) applications and platforms has facilitated this access, thereby eliminating barriers to communication between students and teachers. And this, in turn, has allowed for the provision of guidance and resources whenever necessary, transforming the learning experience into an “anytime, anywhere” environment.
The discipline of public health provides one illustration of how EdTech has impacted online learning. Public health education is seeing a spike in interest due to the COVID-19 pandemic’s increased awareness of the value of public health. One program that has gained traction in recent years is the online Master of Public Health (MPH) in Epidemiology.
The online MPH in epidemiology program allows students to earn the degree from the comfort of their homes. EdTech plays a vital role in delivering this program, enabling students to access course materials, collaborate with peers, and communicate with instructors in real time. EdTech tools such as online simulations, interactive case studies, and virtual laboratories also enable students to gain practical experience critical to their success in the field.
2. Personalized Learning Experience
Students can acquire instructional content catered to their unique learning preferences and skills by providing open access to learning materials. Instead of traditional classrooms, where teachers frequently follow a standardized teaching approach that may only benefit some students, this represents a significant shift. EdTech platforms offer a range of educational formats that may fit a range of interests, abilities, and talents. Students can try methods that best fit their particular requirements and, consequently, encourage a more individualized and inclusive educational experience.
3. Enhanced Teaching Practices
The value of education has increased tenfold, and teaching methods are now more effective for both teachers and students thanks to technological improvements. Multimedia components such as audio, video, and visual aids allow teachers to incorporate student-centered activities into the curriculum. This flexibility and convenience foster an engaging and dynamic learning environment while minimizing interruptions that hinder learning. Most importantly, tech has made it possible for educators to implement and maintain challenging educational practices that are both effective and enjoyable for students.
4. Time And Cost Savings
EdTech technologies have enabled teachers to develop effective lesson plans that can be seamlessly integrated into their online courses, thereby reducing the time spent on daily lesson preparation. Grading and data gathering have been faster and more efficient with online exams and online teaching platforms since tests are frequently scored and recorded automatically. Additionally, many free teaching resources are available online for educators, which helps save paper and promotes sustainable practices in the education industry.
5. Learning Through Collaboration and Creativity
EdTech facilitates the delivery of learning materials that can be accessed at the student’s convenience and promotes innovation within the classroom setting. Interactive features like gamification, quizzes, chat, and video functions foster collaboration, promoting social learning and group engagement.
EdTech also includes features that eliminate communication barriers, such as providing direct and on-demand access to teachers for immediate queries, fostering open communication, and providing guidance and resources as needed.
6. Improved Learners’ Communication Skills
A significant benefit of incorporating Edtech into education is the improvement in communication between the educator and learner through different tools and platforms. Online sessions or courses offer a more welcoming and less judgmental environment than traditional classroom settings, where many students are reluctant to communicate with lecturers. During independent screen time, students can interact freely through chat, audio, or video calls.
Effective communication skills are undeniably essential for students to excel academically and professionally. Strong communication abilities allow individuals to express their opinions clearly and engage in constructive discussions with peers and educators.
By exchanging opinions and concepts with educators and understanding their perspectives, students can gain more knowledge and utilize it effectively to improve their academic performance.
7. Enhances Student’s Cognitive Capabilities
Incorporating digital technology into education can have a positive impact on the physical and mental well-being of students. Integrating various digital tools has made tedious learning courses more engaging and stimulating.
EdTech methods can significantly enhance cognitive skills in students. Virtual learning sessions and the integration of augmented reality (AR) are two examples of prime contributors to this. These tools improve the brain’s capabilities in areas such as reading, interpreting, learning, remembering, thinking, and using logic, all of which can profoundly impact academic understanding and performance in the long run.
By helping students achieve better grades through the use of educational technology, they can experience an increase in confidence and positivity. This boost in mental health can lead to better concentration on studies and further improvements in academic performance.
Conclusion
EdTech is transforming the education sector by providing increased access to education, personalized learning experiences, enhanced teaching practices, time and cost savings, collaborative and creative learning, improved communication skills, and a positive impact on student’s mental well-being. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic has remarkably accelerated the growth of the EdTech industry, and the benefits of EdTech in education are likely to continue beyond the pandemic. As technology advances, educators must stay up-to-date with the latest educational technologies and integrate them into the classroom to ensure that students receive a comprehensive and inclusive education that prepares them for success in their future endeavors.
