Technology has contributed significantly to bringing necessary structural changes in the education sector. For example, it is used to support teaching and learning through digital learning tools like computers, mobile devices, and digital learning tools. Moreover, it has helped expand course offerings and experiences.
Suppose you want to learn a foreign language like German; you can find a German tutor online and learn the language at your pace. Education experts have suggested that 21st-century classrooms are those that fully harness the power of technology.
Impact of Technology on eLearning
Teachers usually aim to improve the performance of their students. In this regard, the teachers need the support of administrators to help them achieve the competencies required.
Here are some notable examples of how technology has impacted eLearning:
Increased Collaboration and Communication
Integration of technology in education increases collaboration between teachers and learners and among the learners. For example, teachers will not be restricted to engaging their students during lessons only. They can still engage their students even past the traditional class time.
Technology provides online lessons and learning games which facilitate students to work together to solve problems. Moreover, students are involved in collaborative activities which allow them to share their thoughts and ideas. This approach makes it easy for students to support each other.
Besides that, technology also allows students to engage their teachers one-on-one. During these sessions, students can ask classroom-related questions and get additional help with areas they are having difficulty. Students can also upload their homework while at home, and teachers can remotely access the assignments.
Learning Is More Personalized
Thanks to technology, learners can access educational resources 24/7. Nowadays, you can attend classes entirely online using your laptops or smartphones. For example, you can learn German online through Preply’s platform, which offers language learning services.
Technology has also given rise to hybrid versions of learning. This approach integrates online learning with traditional classroom learning. In both cases, technology can be used to customize learning plans for every learner. As a result, teachers can create lessons as per their students’ interests and strengths.
Another benefit is that students can learn at their own pace. If there is a concept that you did not understand well, you can review class material, including videos, to get a better understanding. Moreover, the data that these online activities generate is useful for teachers because it can help them discover areas in which students are struggling and offer extra support.
Improves Teacher Productivity and Efficiency
Technology helps students to achieve higher levels of productivity. It also allows them to implement beneficial digital tools that help enhance learning opportunities for students. As a result, it improves student engagement and support.
Apart from that, technology enables teachers to improve their methods of instruction and personalize learning. School managers can also use technology to reduce costs previously incurred on physical instructional materials.
It Enhances Student Curiosity.
When students engage in educational content with the guidance of their teachers, it sparks inquisitiveness and boosts their curiosity. Education experts have stated that curiosity usually leads to academic success.
For example, curiosity enables students to get a better understanding of math and other reading concepts. Teachers can create engaging content using technologies such as AR, podcasts, and videos.
Challenges of Educational Technology
Despite being a welcome addition to the education sector, educational technology has its fair share of challenges. Here are some notable challenges:
- Lack of infrastructure– Studies have shown that many schools do not have the prerequisite technology to implement emerging technologies. Therefore, it might be challenging for different regions to implement this form of learning unless governments and the private sector work together to improve infrastructure in schools.
- Excessive screen time– Health experts argue that online learning exposes students to excessive screen time, which could be detrimental to their health. However, technological innovations have resulted in user-friendly screens that are friendly to the human eye.
- Technology equity– While some students excel in online learning, others face numerous challenges. For instance, not every student has access to a laptop or the internet to enjoy digital learning resources.
- Effectiveness of teachers using the technology– For educational technology to work, the current group of teachers needs to be brought up to speed. For example, they need proper training on how the different technologies work to teach effectively.
Final Thoughts
Technology in education is not a new concept. Initially, governments and private schools partially implemented it. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated to the world the importance of technology in education.
Governments must review their policies to support the improvement of infrastructure in schools. For example, they can ensure that all schools have an internet connection and computer labs.
Finally, the benefits of educational technology outweigh its challenges. Learners can take advantage of the benefits of technology in education to better their lives.
