Technology is already transforming every aspect of modern life, and the education sector is no exception. Education tech has been proposed as a solution to most of the challenges that students and teachers face. Surveys suggest that the proper use of education technology will prepare learners for the future workforce while making sure that they are more engaged in the pursuit of learning.
Some concerns have also been raised, with tech opponents in education arguing that it can be a distraction. This article summarizes the debate, highlighting the key benefits and challenges associated with educational technology.
Benefits of Technology in Education
Technology has many benefits for both teachers and students. Here are some notable ones.
- Technology Improved Student Engagement
Evidence shows that educational technology enhances student engagement. The objective is not to replace teachers in the classroom but rather to supplement their efforts.
Instructors use tech to keep students interested in the learning process. Since the tech supplements lessons and enhances teacher-student interaction, it can enhance understanding of concepts. Students can get assistance creating assignments through paraphrasing service providers online.
- Interactive Tech Broadens Horizons
Another benefit of using technology in the classroom is that it broadens the boundaries of learning, eliminates financial and geographical boundaries. Students can go on field trips virtually without even leaving their classrooms. Lecturers can also collaborate with other educators from around the world through video conferencing tools.
For students in remote areas, technology and access to the internet improve access to quality instructions. They can choose the courses they wish to pursue and attend classes from any part of the world without been asked to travel. Education tech has simplified learning and eliminated numerous barriers.
- Tech Accommodates Various Learning Styles
Everyone learns in unique ways. For instance, some people prefer visual content, while others learn best when exposed to textual material. Technology allows students to interact with the material in the format that they prefer the most.
In other words, the tech supports their unique learning needs. Students can also decide when to retrieve learning material, meaning that they can revise concepts taught in class.
- Tech Allows Teachers to Experiment with Different Strategies
Through tech, teachers can access evidence-based instructional strategies and apply them in their classrooms. They can experiment and get instant feedback on learner progress.
In other words, tech allows a more interactive and active approach to learning. An instructor can increase student engagement by providing quizzes during online classes or online polling. The answers are relayed instantaneously.
- Students Can Access Valuable Learning Information
There used to be when the teacher was the custodian of knowledge and dispensed learning through lectures. In that era, students were passive participants in the learning process. Technology has changed all these, and students are now active in their pursuit of knowledge.
Tech allows them to have instant access to new and authentic information. This way, students can supplement their learning experiences. Learners can access books and course materials that are always up-to-date.
- Technology Improves Student-Teacher Collaboration
The hours that teachers spend with their students in traditional classrooms are often limited. Thanks to tech, however, instructors and learners can remain in contact, even past classroom hours.
Teachers can share ideas with students, issue assignments, and provide feedback on questions. Tech, in this sense, supports greater collaboration, which is important for effective instruction.
- Education Tech Prepares Students for the Workplace
It makes sense to use tech in the learning environment because it prepares students for what is to come. Employers already prefer techno-savvy workers who can keep up with the constantly changing organizational tech.
As the world continues to evolve, the demand for students with technology skills will keep rising. Every industry relies on technology, and it makes perfect sense to prepare students for this reality.
What Is the Problem with Education Tech?
While there are numerous benefits of technology in education, some challenges need to be addressed. For instance, concerns have been raised that tech in the classroom can distract from the learning process. Students may find it challenging to focus on course content when surrounded by a wide range of digital devices.
Also, there is a possibility of technology disconnecting learners from social interactions. Learners may also be tempted to use tech for cheating on assignments and in class. Although students have always devised ways of cheating, tech makes this easier. That said, there are ways that colleges can structure assignments in ways the prohibit and limit cheating.
From this discussion, it is apparent that the benefits of education tech overshadow any challenges experienced. The key to the success of technology in the classroom lies in improving teacher-student relationships. Education tech holds much potential and may be the secret to a better and more connected world.
