From Kindergarten to college, emerging technologies are continuing to revolutionize educational environments. The following technologies already have been or are expected to be integrated into classrooms:
Cloud Computing Technologies In Education
Virtual learning environments, such as web-based tools and applications, save school time, money and resources. This type of technologies in education for learning has become an essential part of communication between the student and teacher.
Teachers share documents and other digital activities with the students via cloud-based tools. This allows students to access assignments and submit papers for grading through the cloud.
The cloud also allows users to store a variety of content such as documents, applications, music, photos and more. This data can be easily accessible from any device (even a mobile device) that has the ability to connect with the cloud.
Mobile Technology
Elementary and high schools from K-12 are seeing the potential in mobile technology for learning. These devices are more affordable than most laptops and use less infrastructure for their support.
Apps used for education are the second most downloaded content from the iTunes App store and have surpassed the popularity of entertainment and business apps.
Game-Based Learning
Experimentation and exploration can be experienced through game-based learning techniques. Gameplay technologies in education has become an effective tool for educational curriculum and simulating real work experiences.
Example: The nursing students at the University of Minnesota have teamed up with the Minnesota Hospital Association and the technology firm VitalSMS to create interactive web-based games that allow students to engage. Virtually with real-life scenarios. These digital learning tools are expected to be launched later in 2013.
MOOCS Technologies In Education
Massively Open Online Courses (MOOCS) are classes available to the public over the internet regardless of location. These classes help people acquire new skill sets at no cost. The emphasis is based on lecture through Internet connectivity. This types of learning have become very popular in the last several years and continue to grow rapidly.
Example: Interested in taking a Massively Open Online Course? Go to www.mooc-list.com and choose from hundreds of free courses options.
Learning Analytics
Learning Analytics help instructors decipher educational data trends and patterns o enhance their teaching strategies. This allows the educator to tailor courses to their own students’ needs through the analysis of students performance. This customized learning experience utilizes data from online student interaction to improve the students’ educational experience in the classroom.
Virtual Reality (VR) Technologies In Education
Education is going to be the 4th biggest sector for VR investment. From taking virtual field trips to the aquarium to diving to the bottom of the ocean floor, opportunities for virtual reality in education are endless.
97% of the students like to study in VR. This technology provides an immersive experience for kids, which will create long lasting impression in their minds.