Although technological advancements have a profound impact on every facet of human existence, they have a very unique and significant way of permeating the world of education. As technological devices and electronic equipment become more functional and environment friendly, the process of educating an individual can be optimized to benefit both individual students and the communities in which they live. Below you will find four emerging technologies that are positively contributing to the educational sector:
1. Cloud Computing
Cloud computing has become an essential component of the school environment over the last several months. Within the field of language, cloud-based software such as the Brazilian Electronic Learning Organizer enables language instructors to produce and subsequently share digital learning activities and objects with the students in their classrooms.
Cloud-based software is also impacting the world of science as California State University Northridge created an initiative (the Computer Supported Collaborative Science initiative) which enabled teachers in Los Angeles-based schools to enrich the student's learning experience with cloud-based tools. And within the field of social studies, cloud computing has enabled students to participate in virtual exchange programs with schools in other countries. Within this framework, students are free to select and interrogate the subjects of their choice, including cuisine and dietetics.
2. Mobile Learning
According to technology experts, there will be more than 7 billion mobile accounts by the end of the year. It is thus unsurprising to find that internet mobile traffic is projected to exceed desktop traffic and users of mobile devices will download about 70 billion apps for tablets and smartphones. Interestingly, educational apps are the second most frequently downloaded apps in iTunes across all categories. (This means that they pass both business and entertainment apps in terms of popularity.)
In the mathematical sector, students can use devices populated with e-textbooks (you can find more information about getting e-textbooks on Jekkle) and mathematical apps to gain information, record measurements, and receive instruction. Musically, students can create their own unique sounds via iPads. Finally, students can appropriate cloud computing technology to write digital stories and turn them into apps that can be accessed through iOS mobile devices.
3. Tablet Computing
Tablet computers have become popular in the educational sector for numerous reasons, one of which is that students can easily transport them from one class to another. In fact, tablets are so functional that many educational institutions are thinking about having them replace personal laptops and computer labs. With tablets, students can choose their own apps to make the learning experience personal and effective. In the field of art, students earning Illustration degrees can utilize their iPads to create drawings that can subsequently be played as video.
This type of creative activity is important and effective because it precipitates discussion and reflection about the process of drawing while also helping students to identify and contrast techniques for the purpose of skill improvement and refinement. In the science sector, tablets are currently being used to collect and subsequently share information regarding indigenous rocks. Additionally, geology majors can use their tablets to take photos. Within the field of journalism, professor Messner of Virginia Commonwealth University has given students access to iPads so that they can create news stories regarding events transpiring in their local communities. Additionally, graduate students from Vanderbilt University are creating Android apps which enable students that are visually impaired to learn math.
4. Open Content
As many marketing experts know, the creation of great content is an incredibly effective way for businesses to advertise the goods and services they offer. However, open content is also positively applicable within the educational sector. This is the case for several reasons, including the fact that open content is oftentimes a more efficacious and expedient form of learning material for students to utilize. Given that open content can be updated perpetually and almost instantaneously, its presence gives students an opportunity to utilize the most up-to-date information available on any subject under the sun.
Summing It All Up
As the year continues gaining momentum, technological advancements are positively contributing to our ability to lead productive, positive lives. In context of education, technological advancements such as cloud computing and open content have become efficacious mediums through which the educational process can be simplified and expedited. By utilizing these types of cutting edge technologies, students and educators can optimize their ability to learn and grow as thinking beings.