From augmented reality to integrated touchscreens in every student’s desk, one thing is certain: Technology will play an even bigger role in the education of tomorrow.
Technology Will Change How We Teach and Learn
To date, 50 percent of all Americans own either a tablet or an eReader, and 58 percent of Americans own a smartphone. Those numbers will surely grow, and touchscreens and tablets will likely play an increased role in education, in the physical classroom as well as at home and in online environments.
Already, six out of ten college students say they prefer books in digital format. This preference doesn’t seem to present a problem. As our reading expert says, “all reading is good reading.” In fact, one study referenced showed improved engagement and learning outcomes when students had regular access to technology.
Along with changes in hardware, we can expect to see progress in software. Augmented reality integrated into lessons would mean fun and engaging curricula and changes in the ways we teach and learn. Gamification apps like Grand-Essays already offer fun, easy learning opportunities anywhere, and we can expect to see more as devices improve and new apps are developed.
Free, Accessible Education for All
Increased access to the Internet will mean more learning opportunities for more people. Currently, 79 percent of Americans have a computer at home and 75 percent have home Internet, numbers that have grown exponentially in a relatively short period of time. With increased connectivity comes increased access to education.
MOOCs, or Massive Open Online Courses are already offered by respected institutions like Harvard, MIT, and Yale and studies show they’re proven to be effective. Over the last few years, millions of students have enrolled in these courses, and they’re only expected to grow.
A predicted deemphasis of college degrees by employers and a shift to valuing knowledge means these courses could be an accessible, affordable option for future job-seekers to gain the knowledge they need. We’ve seen firsthand the success of online school options for students in grades K-12. Free, effective online learning for higher education, accessible to anyone, anywhere, is an exciting prospect.
