Educational Technology-The concept in-depth

Education technology (EdTech) points to technologies utilised for accessing and promoting education. Technologies such as software, hardware, and other technologies used in the education sector enhance learning. Incorporating technologies into the education sector helps empower the students and provides them with an individualised, inclusive and engaging learning experience. It would be appropriate to say that technologies have revolutionised the education industry.

Types of educational technology

• Synchronous learning connects teachers and students online or through face-to-face interactions. Tools used in synchronous learning are whiteboards, chat rooms and videoconferencing. Students could benefit from immediate feedback from tutors through this type of learning.
• Asynchronous learning facilitates the students to learn at their own pace or they are responsible for their learning. They could learn by accessing the study materials.
• Blended learning is an integration of online classes and conventional classroom teaching. Tools like discussion boards and video conferencing are used.
• Linear learning is the usage of software. But, unlike regular software used for educational purposes, this allows the students to learn the concepts that interest them at their own pace.
• Collaborative learning allows the students to work as a team to complete a task. This could be done either online or in person.

Future of EdTech

The global EdTech industry market size in 2021 was $85 billion, predicted to reach $230 billion by 2028. The drivers of growth identified are the students’ preference for online learning. One of the reasons behind this is the pandemic, where the students had to use online learning. Also, this provides convenience and is a cost-effective option for students and educational institutions.

Future trends

Technologies set to revolutionise EdTech are machine learning, artificial intelligence, gaming–related solutions through virtual reality, blockchain technology, learning analytics, and using social media in learning and augmented reality. Other than technologies, the EdTechs are not just used in educational institutions but are to be used in organisations for workforce upskilling.

Benefits

According to a report by McKinsey, the educational institutions that used technologies performed well compared to those that did not use technologies. Why? Because the technologies used in the education sector provide an immersive experience for the students and improve their engagement. Moreover, it helps provide a hybrid learning environment, thereby providing flexibility to learners. From the teacher’s perspective, it allows the teachers to manage their teaching materials, such as providing access to materials and offering feedback.

Educational technology has already revolutionised the education sector and is expected to do so in the future. In line with the changing trends in the education sector, educational institutions should focus on incorporating technologies to enhance the teaching and learning process. The ROI would provide both tangible and intangible benefits to the institutions. Moreover, considering the growth of the educational technology sector, the usage of technologies in the sector would be essential for aiding the growth and development of students.