Adapting to a Tech Based Education World

Technology Shaping Education: Current and Upcoming Changes

Adapting to a tech-based education world hasn't been easy for some schools and teachers. However, with new products and services readily available, there is a great potential for technology to improve education. To get an idea of what to expect, these are some of the technologies which are up and coming and could change education significantly in the future.

3D Printing

Students in a wide variety of areas can benefit from this technology, but it may be especially beneficial for science and math classes.

A 3D printer can produce a working mini model to test out new designs so students can work on perfecting these small models before making the actual larger item. Working with computer-aided design software, 3D printing will allow students to experiment with their designs. This may also be helpful for teachers; they can use a 3D printer to create small models for students to gain a hands-on experience.

Online Social Networking

When it comes to schooling, students also need to know how to communicate and socialize with their classmates. This can be a great tool for learning, especially for group projects and discussions. Online virtual worlds offer a platform for students to have these discussions while teachers can be present to moderate. This is an empowering notion since it will encourage learners to understand that their education is a personal undertaking.

For classes and teaching methods where collaboration is needed, social networking tools have and will continue to be used to enhance good collaboration and team-building plans. Teachers can still be present and provide guidance in these areas.

Flexible Displays

Note taking has become the norm but there will probably be a change from taking notes by hand to taking them via tablets or computers. Educational settings are becoming more digitalized but how are classrooms reconciling the differences among a pen and paper versus the screen? One of the solutions is going to be OLED-based displays. These are similar to regular paper and can be rolled up or folded easily. However, unlike paper, they are durable and interactive. Digital paper prototypes are already in development.