Technology has always been part of the modern education system, as institutions constantly seek ways to implement the latest tools into the teaching and learning processes.
With the current state of the world, and schools moving to remote learning, technology like online fax has become more prominent in the economic system. Whether it is a grading app or a tool for students to edit PDF files, technology is transforming education.
This article discusses the importance of technology in education. Read on to discover the educational tools changing the academic landscape today.
Meaning of educational technology
Educational technology, also EdTech or EduTech, is a term that refers to any hardware or software program that aids the educational process. Such as helpful sources https://mypaperdone.com/buy-
Some EdTech tools are high-end technological solutions like AR and VR headsets, while others can take the shape of basic messaging and video conferencing applications.
Benefits of technology in education
EdTech tools benefit both students, teachers, and members of faculty. Check out why these tools are essential in the modern learning and teaching process.
- Personalizes learning
Modern tech tools focus on improving the user experience at every stage of interaction with the product. Besides, the introduction of artificial intelligence and machine learning allows students to get learning recommendations based on their preferences and curriculum. As a result, teachers can use these tools to track the performance of individual students in order to fine-tune their teaching methods.
- Boosts engagement
When students get access to the learning content they love and understand, they can participate better in the learning process. Not only that, but tools like Zoom and Google Meet allow students to participate in education regardless of background and location. And since modern learning tools can save information, the students get easy access to whatever they need instantly.
- Gamifies learning
Students have shorter attention spans, making it difficult to keep them engaged with the learning material. But with gamification tools like Duolingo and Habitica, students of all academic levels can take a more active part in the virtual or physical classroom.
- Improves performances
Experts believe that technology improves students’ grades by giving them access to essential materials to fill their knowledge gaps. If students are engaged with content personalized to their needs, their performances in the classroom improve.
- Enables blended learning
As life gradually returns to normal, schools will need blended learning methods to help their students transition. Besides, blended learning allows students to diversify their learning methods according to personal convenience.
- Fosters communication
Messaging tools allow teachers and students to stay in touch even beyond the classroom. Instant messaging tools and chatbots also enable learners to communicate with their mates and get real-time assistance.
- Improves teachers’ productivity
Modern teaching technology makes life easier for teachers as well. For instance, educators can grade tests instantly using tools like Crowdmark. Apart from that, some learning management systems enable teachers to arrange their curriculum using drag-and-drop features.
- Encourages collaboration
Technology bridges the gap between students and encourages them to stay in touch with their peers from any location. Students can work together on group projects with collaboration tools like Google Docs.
- Prepares students for the future
Most EdTech tools translate into the modern workplace. So, if students can learn how to use them while in school, they will acquire basic professional skills to become part of the labor force.
- Self-paced learning
Since students have different needs and comprehension levels, they can study at their own pace. Educational platforms like Coursera and Udemy allow students to take courses at their convenience without clogging their schedules with lessons.
Of all the benefits listed above, the main focus should be to improve the students’ academic performances and boost teachers’ productivity.
Main categories of educational technology tools
You can group any educational tool or platform based on how students use them. Here are the main categories of EduTech tools that every student needs.
PDF tools for e-learning
The PDF format is the most common file type in academia because of its convenience. With that in mind, schools need to invest in PDF for teachers.
Tools like Lumin PDF, Adobe Acrobat Reader, Sejda, and PDFElement can help students edit PDF files without much hassle. And with the help of any modern PDF editor for students, they can efficiently work with their peers on projects.
Communication tools
Students need to stay in touch with their mates and teachers as well, and communication tools can help them. Check out some video conferencing apps and messaging platforms for students.
- Slack
- Skype
- Zoom
- Google Meet
- Remind 101
- SoapBox
- EdPuzzle
Schools can also use social media platforms like Messenger to communicate, but these tools might provide a source of distraction for students.
Collaboration tools
Students can also use technology to work together on assignments or help each other solve complex tasks. Some tools that enable seamless collaboration in the school environment include:
- Classcraft
- Popplet
- Minecraft: Education Edition
These collaboration tools use AI technology and messaging (commenting) features for in-project communication.
Adaptive learning tools
Adaptive learning involves analyzing the student’s academic performance to adjust the curriculum in real time. In the modern, fast-paced classroom environment, adaptive learning tools reduce the workload for teachers as well as personalizes learning for students.
Adaptive learning tools for teachers and students include:
- DoodleLearning
- Smart Sparrow
- Knewton
- DreamBox
- ScootPad
Google Classroom tech tools for teachers
Google Classroom is a free online learning management suite that teachers can use to create lesson materials, grade assignments, and offer feedback to students.
Here are the tools that make Google Classroom an essential addition to the modern classroom:
- Docs
- Sheets
- Slides
- Jamboard
- Gmail
- Calendar
- Earth
- Meet
- Forms
AR and VR tools
Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality have gained more steam recently as companies like Facebook explore the technology. Check out the AR and VR tools that can assist learning.
- Metaverse
- Oculus Rift
- Flipgrid
- Adobe Aero
- CoSpaces
- Panoform
- Form Creator
- Story Spheres
Simulation tools
Bringing the classroom to the students at home is now a priority in blended (or remote) learning. The following tools can help students experience the real world without physically being in the location:
- Lemonade
- PrepMagic
- AlgoDoo
- GeoGebra
- PraxiLab
- PlanetMaker
- Chemix
- Logic Sim
These products often serve as virtual labs for experiments as well.
Conclusion
Technology is integral to modern-day teaching and learning, regardless of academic level. Schools must use educational technology to streamline the learning process and improve teachers’ productivity. Check out the tools mentioned in this article to find one that solves your specific problem.