The last decade has brought about major changes in the way we teach and learn. The education system is no longer based on the traditional classroom set-up; students are now able to leverage EdTech platforms and tools to learn from anywhere any time and at their desired pace. According to the consulting firm Frost & Sullivan, the EdTech market is expected to grow to USD 40.9 billion in the next two years at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 18.3%.
While the pandemic has already revolutionised the education system, 2021 has in store several EdTech advancements that will further revolutionise the way online education is imparted. Let’s take a look at some of the major changes and inclusions that will enhance the EdTech platforms and reshape the education system in the coming year.
Virtual and augmented reality
Augmented and virtual reality provides students with experiential learning opportunities. AR- and VR-enabled learning tools allow teachers to clarify various concepts and their applications to students through visually appealing means. These technologies also enable teachers to teach in a more engaging and productive way, thereby making the teaching-learning process more interactive and immersive.
Virtual classrooms
Virtual classroom-enabled online lectures empower students to learn anytime and from any part of the world. In addition, AI enables educators to monitor students’ activities, track their attendance and even proctor the assessments. This, in turn, makes the teaching-learning process more transparent.
School management platforms
Integration of cloud technology with education is gaining ground in India because of the security of data it provides and its ease of accessibility. In addition to streamlining the management of academic operations, EdTech platforms also facilitate smooth management of administrative tasks such as the creation of report cards, fee management, parent-teacher communication and much more.
Personalised and adaptive learning
Personalised learning is key to 21stcentury education. Online learning platforms not only empower students to learn at their own pace but also help educators to make learning more engaging and collaborative by leveraging digital tools.
By leveraging AI-ML-based tools, educators can better understand the learning progress of each student and assign study material and assignments based on their learning needs and knowledge levels.
Digital masterclasses
Digital masterclass formats are gaining popularity as students have more exposure to the Internet and different digital devices today. Digital masterclasses encourage students to take an active interest in learning as they get the opportunity to be taught by top-line experts from different fields.
Phygital learning
By leveraging EdTech platforms, educational institutions can create a phygital learning or blended learning environment. This approach paves the way for educational institutions to deliver new-age online education that supplements on-campus learning. Blended learning not only ensures uninterrupted teaching-learning but also empowers students and educators to make the best use of resources.
Robotics
Robotics is gaining wide acceptance in K-12 education as it helps students fine-tune their understanding of STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) concepts and develop 21st-century skills such as critical thinking, decision-making and creativity. If learners are introduced to the basics of robotics at an early age, it can help stimulate their creativity and satisfy their curiosity.
Gamification
Adding gamification to an EdTech platform makes teaching-learning fun and engaging, and encourages students and educators to involve themselves comprehensively.
Introducing elements such as narratives, characters, challenges and rewards not only motivate the students but also help to keep them engaged, which in turn brings about positive changes in learning behaviour.
Block-based coding systems
The 21st century is all about practical learning, and block-based coding is a stepping stone towards achieving this. Coding, a block-based programming language is easier for students to understand because the instructions are presented as blocks, and it also helps students create various multimedia projects. It enables students to not only make animated stories but also science projects, interactive artwork and more. Coding programmes can be used to enhance the creativity of students.
STEAM
STEAM-based programs are an improvement over STEM programs. In addition to science, technology, engineering, and math, it includes arts subjects (humanities, language arts, dance, drama, music, visual arts, design etc.) as well.
One of the major advantages of integrating STEAM-based programs in EdTech platforms is that it empowers learners to gain better conceptual clarity through hands-on learning activities and creative designs. Moreover, it also creates a connected learning environment for learners to express their ideas, which in turn develops collaboration skills, critical thinking and creativity.
Edtech platforms are thus empowering the education sector to rise to the occasion and make a smooth transition from offline to online education. By continuously evolving and integrating new technologies as per the needs of the learners, EdTech platforms can help the education sector overcome the roadblocks by providing a quality teaching-learning experience.
More About Beas Dev Ralhan
Before Next Education, Beas worked as an entrepreneur, investment manager and consultant for around a decade in various firms. In recognition of his immense contribution to the K–12 education segment, CII (Southern Regional) bestowed upon him the ‘Emerging Entrepreneur’ award in 2015. He also received the Indian Education Leader award at the 7th World Education Summit, 2016. Under Beas’ leadership, Next Education has also begun to secure a foothold in the Middle East.