Education Beat:

It is through research and understanding that we can improve upon the science of teaching, and the encouraging of students, to make sure successful learning is taking place. In helping to do so, it is important to keep up with the current “best” ways to teach students. Trends are always changing and can grow (or fail) based on popularity, ease of use and overall understanding of the methodology in question. It seems obvious to say that we became very dependent almost overnight on the use of technology in relation to learning and teaching as a nation.

Amid pandemic restrictions this past year, schools closing, schools functioning in hybrid models, and with homeschooling rates rising, the overall usage of mobile devices (laptops, tablets, smartphones) have risen tremendously. These devices have become a huge part of the steady increase in learning that is taking place outside of the classroom for the current school year. The convenience and ease of learning in this manner have benefitted both teachers and students alike and have bridged a gap in collaborative learning. Teachers and students now have the capacity to work together, interact, discuss and take on group activities, projects and mentorships.

Work can be saved and expanded upon in realtime and the notion of a traditional, set, 45-minute block of time for class is not the only means of learning available. Technology has worked to keep learners connected and engaged as it has expanded upon the ways that education can be delivered. Schools using successful learning management systems now have easy access to books, files, videos, learning games and shared learning resources.

Teachers can also videoconference with their students and work side by side with digital whiteboards. In addition, assessment options and the management of useful student data have become more convenient than ever through technology. As an important part of education, teachers can now monitor student performance to help tailor their learning path and allow for modifications in learning. Teachers can see both deficits and advances and can work alongside students and parents to modify learning in either direction. With all the newfound ways to navigate eLearning (electronic learning), “Digital Citizenship” is also important to understand and maintain. In keeping on-trend, all students, at all levels, should be taught an understanding of how to use the Internet and all technology purposefully and appropriately. A healthy relationship with the digital world can only enhance the overall education experience in our current day society. There is still, of course, an impactful value in social and face-to-face interaction in education that should never be discounted. Technology, however, has changed the face of education and, when used effectively, can make it easier, faster, better and hopefully, enjoyable.