How is Technology Changing Education?
BY ADMIN PUBLISHED March 18, 2024, UPDATED March 18, 2024
Like every other aspect of life, technology has also impacted education. Though the purpose remains the same: to impart knowledge and wisdom to students, the way of educating young minds has changed, thanks to technology. Earlier, kids only from well-to-do families could receive value-adding education. But, with technological advancement, it has become accessible to every child. Now, massive amounts of information (books, images, audio and video) are available at everyone’s fingertips through the Internet. Let’s check out how technology has changed education.
Embracing technological advancement, Delhi Public School Ghaziabad (DPSG) is moving hand-in-hand with technology curated for education. We are eager to accommodate the transforming initiative the tech world offers to help spread education across all corners of the globe. Through this blog, we address the significant role of technology in the education sector and how it is making education accessible in various ways.
Impact of Technology on Education
Technology is developing as an incredible force of change. As we look forward to the upcoming years, it will continue to play a crucial role in changing India’s education system. From modern classrooms to personalised learning, the benefits of technology in education are expected to be profound. Aligned with the National Education Policy objectives, technology will change education in India in many ways.
Inclusive Education
Technology ensures the availability of education to children with varied needs. Assistive technology like speech-to-text and text-to-speech tools will allow students with impairments to engage with content more effectively, promoting inclusion as envisioned by the NEP.
Interactive Content
Traditional textbooks will make way for adaptive digital content. Visual labs, simulations and interactive movies will make learning more interesting and immersive, allowing students to understand complicated subjects better. Visual aids will accommodate a variety of learning styles, making education more accessible.
Virtual Classrooms
Virtual classrooms are a unique use of technology in education which can bridge geographical gaps, offering quality education to rural communities. Students may communicate with professors and peers, access materials, and engage in conversations from the convenience of their own homes. This will democratise education and provide opportunities for those pupils who previously lacked access.
Skill Development
Technology will help connect education with the demands of the job market. Seminars, online courses and webinars will give possibilities for skill development outside conventional disciplines, equipping students with the practical skills required in today's workforce.
Collaboration and Connectivity
The importance of technology in education can be identified by promoting worldwide collaboration among students. Technology allows students to interact with one another from all around the world. Virtual exchange programmes and joint initiatives will foster cultural awareness and diversity.
Personalised Learning
With the help of technology, schools can provide personalised learning experiences based on a student’s style, pace and strengths. AI-powered assessments and adaptive learning platforms will identify students' individual requirements, allowing teachers to offer focused support while encouraging improved topic comprehension and mastery.
How technology has changed education in the past 20 years
From chalkboards to smartboards, the educational landscape has changed tremendously with technological assistance. But, how can technology improve education? Integrating computers, the internet, and digital devices into classrooms has facilitated access to a wealth of information, enabling students to engage with course material in dynamic ways.
One significant change is the shift from traditional textbooks to digital resources. E-books, online libraries, and interactive multimedia platforms have made learning more engaging and accessible. Educational software and applications also cater to diverse learning styles, providing personalised learning experiences.
Moreover, technology has expanded education's reach beyond traditional classrooms' confines. Online learning platforms offer courses and resources to learners worldwide, breaking down geographical barriers and providing opportunities for lifelong learning.
The use of multimedia tools, such as videos, animations, and simulations, has made complex concepts easier to grasp and more memorable. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies further immerse students in interactive learning environments, enhancing their understanding and retention of subjects like never before.
Furthermore, communication and collaboration have been greatly enhanced through technology. Students can connect with peers and educators globally, fostering a collaborative learning environment and promoting cultural exchange.
Pros & Cons of technology in education
The advantages of technology in education are as follows:
Engaging
Between a static textbook and an interactive and colourful screen of a gamified program, students will obviously choose the interactive screen. And that’s the power of technology. Technology can captivate children with engaging and colourful learning experiences that often fail to produce on paper.
Cost-effective
Buying multiple textbooks for varied subjects can be costly. Still, one tablet where students can stream various topics on various subjects can save money on huge reams of paper. Thus, it can be said that technology can make education cost-effective regarding paper costs.
Collaboration
Group projects can become messy and time-consuming when students coordinate face to face. But with technology, students can collaborate on cloud documents, work together in virtual rooms and more.
Authentic Learning
Technology is the bridge between classroom learning and the real world. Teachers can use technology for authentic learning that is relevant to the world. For instance, with the help of virtual classrooms, students from different parts of the world can now connect.
Encourages Spontaneous Learning
Having access to technology allows students to learn about topics that would interest them. Older generations had less access to knowledge; therefore, youngsters needed to rely on traditional resources. On the other hand, children nowadays have access to a wealth of information. When used appropriately and monitored, technology can supplement learning in or out of the classroom by allowing children to research topics of interest to them.
Though technology is a blessing, it has some disadvantages too. These are:
Distraction
Students should not be left unattended with any technology when they are studying. The attention span of students is generally short and they can get easily lured by non-educational content or social media.
Can Isolate One Another
For students who use technology regularly as a part of distance learning, working solo behind a screen can become lonely. This emphasises the need to incorporate collaborative activities such as cloud documents and discussion boards. To provide students with a more physical feeling of connection, consider using video technologies like Zoom.
Not Meaningful All the Time
Putting a screen in front of students is not enough to make meaningful learning experiences for students. It is important to use technology meaningfully in classrooms that will add value to student learning. Things like motivation, increased engagement or a task that cannot be done on paper can be introduced to promote technology in the classroom environment.
Discourage Creativity
Many tech-based activities are pre-made, enabling students to complete a task without needing to tackle problems in novel and inventive ways. However, numerous games encourage creative growth and problem-solving abilities while providing an enjoyable solitary or group pastime. Choosing the latter and giving a diverse range of additional learning materials, such as tools or painting supplies, can guarantee that your children benefit from their playtime safely and productively.
Read Also - Technology Integration in Schools: A Necessity or a Requirement
Conclusion
Technology can be a blessing for students if used properly. Schools are introducing various technological devices to promote modern learning experiences for students. The Delhi Public School Ghaziabad Society, which has seven branches, integrated technology into the classrooms. Following the CBSE & IB curriculum, we provide smartboard technology as a part of our culture. We also provide web-based digital resources, electronic tracking and e-library to enhance the quality of education. Our approach toward student learning is interactive, and we do it effectively with technology-aided tools.
