Working with technology: digital tools for teachers
Aanya Kapoor
Bringing digital tools into classrooms has changed how we learn and has helped students do better. But it’s not just the students, teachers can also use technology to try new and better ways of teaching. It’s an exciting opportunity for teachers to make their teaching better and more engaging. Let’s explore the transformative impact of technology on the education sector, delving into both its benefits and challenges.
What trends are changing the way educational institutions work?
-
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
AI is a technology that helps build intelligence into machines. AI tools can help machines understand language, recognize pictures, learn things, and solve problems. AI is becoming a big part of our everyday lives, helping and automating tasks that would otherwise have been done by people.
AI is also changing how education works. It can make learning and teaching better. Here are some ways AI can be used in education:
-
-
- Customized lessons
-
AI helps schools create lessons that fit each student. It looks at how well students are doing and makes lessons that match their progress and skills.
Tools: Extramarks
-
-
- AI assessments
-
Smart AI tools check students’ work, find out where they need help, and highlight which topics need more attention. Such student assessment tools can also identify students who might be struggling so that teachers can support them better.
Tools: Extramarks, Turnitin
-
-
- Student advisory
-
AI can run services that answer questions regarding homework, deadlines, class schedules, and course material, freeing up teachers and counselors to focus on more complicated issues, such as personalized lesson plans, mental health support, and behavioral concerns. It makes things easier for everyone!
Tools: Naviance
-
- Machine Learning (ML)
Machine Learning is an extension of AI that helps machines learn from data patterns using special algorithms. In education, ML can be very useful. It can use the information available to solve different problems, such as handling data efficiently, checking how well students are doing, and automating repetitive tasks. Here are some ways ML can be used in education:
-
-
- Teaching help
-
ML can assist teachers and students by providing guides, notes, activities, and solutions, making learning more effective.
Tools: Extramarks
-
-
- Predictions
-
Schools can use ML to predict how many candidates that applied to the school might actually join, find out which students are likely to do well, and figure out who might need extra help to stay in school.
Tools: Rapidminer
-
-
- Automation
-
ML can take care of repetitive tasks in administration, freeing up teachers and other staff members to focus on more important things, such as personalized instruction, student counseling, curriculum development, etc.
Tools: Skool Loop, Docuexprt
-
- Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)
AR (Augmented Reality) and VR (Virtual Reality) make learning really fun for students. These technologies make it feel like the subjects students are learning about are all around them. The immersive nature of these technologies also enables students to explore different virtual places. AR and VR help students stay interested, focused, and creative, making learning more exciting and entertaining.
Tools: Merge Cube, Google Cardboard
-
- Internet of Things (IoT)
IoT, or the Internet of Things, is a system where devices can talk to each other through the Internet or a network. More and more schools are starting to use IoT technology. It enhances inter-personal connections, builds a sense of community, and keeps things safe. With IoT, students and teachers can easily communicate, share learning materials, and make learning more interactive and efficient. It also helps schools keep everything safe and under control.
Tools: School Messenger
Illustrations: Divya Choudary, generated using AI
How can teachers embrace the digital transformation of education?
Teachers, as leaders in education, have a great opportunity to discover the importance of trying new methods and tools. The digital transformation in education happening now gives them a chance to change how they teach students, helping them learn important skills for the future. When teachers use technology in their teaching, it opens up many creative ways for students to learn. This modern approach helps teachers inspire their students in exciting ways.
Challenges on the road to embracing digital transformation
- Digital literacy
- Resistance to change
- Time constraints
- Getting the right tools for learning
- Mixing old ways with new
Knowing how to use technology is important for teachers. But, not everyone is good at it. By giving teachers good training and more chances to learn, we can help them feel excited about using digital tools in class. This positive way of teaching makes sure all teachers have the help they need to use technology and make learning fun for students. With the right help and encouragement, every teacher can do well in the digital age of teaching.
Some teachers might not want to use digital tools. To help with this, we can create an environment that is open to trying new things and show how technology can be good for teaching. This can be done by offering ongoing support, highlighting success stories, and fostering a culture of collaboration and experimentation.
Using technology might seem very time-consuming. But with good planning and support, we can make it easy for teachers. We can help them manage their time better, so using technology becomes a smooth and fun part of teaching.
Some schools might not have the newest technology or enough digital tools. It’s important to invest in good software and hardware so that everyone can use them.
Finding a good mix between traditional teaching and new technology is important. We want technology to make learning better, not take away the important human connection in teaching.
How to Empower Teachers to Unlock the Full Potential of Digital Transformation in Education
- Training for Teachers
- Digital Learning Materials
- A Learning Mindset
- Helping the School Run Smoothly
Schools can help teachers by providing good training in using digital tools. Companies that offer solutions can create effective training programs to help teachers use technology and make learning fun.
Having access to digital materials can make lessons more interesting and helpful for teachers. It’s important that these materials are high-quality, cover different topics, and are suitable for students.
Teachers should keep learning and stay up-to-date with new developments in digital education. This will help them effectively integrate technology into their teaching.
School leaders play a crucial role in supporting the use of technology in classrooms. They advocate for it, ensure access to the necessary tools, and encourage teachers when they successfully incorporate technology. This support inspires teachers to embrace positive changes in their teaching practices.
So, there you have it – the digital revolution in education is here, and teachers are at the forefront. Let’s embrace these trends, tackle the challenges, and empower teachers to make learning an exciting journey into the future. The classrooms of tomorrow are waiting for us, and together, we can make them innovative, engaging, and truly remarkable.
The author is a content marketer with Extramarks. Along with her team, she develops content relevant to the 21st century education ecosystems. Her content revolves around topics such as smart learning technology in education, modern parenting, as well as other educational topics. Her writing combines her knowledge and personal interests, making her a valuable resource for those seeking insights into education and parenting. Beyond her professional expertise, she’s an avid reader, a globe-trotter who explores diverse cultures, and a passionate gardener. She can be reached at aanya.kapoor@extramarks.com.
