Tech-enabled classrooms are going to revolutionize the system of education

The landscape of education is evolving – and while every classroom is undergoing a massive change, technology has been at the forefront of this transformation. Since we live in a world that is dominated by knowledge and information, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education has gained renewed importance.

Moreover, COVID-19 has urged educational institutions to rethink the way lessons are being delivered. With the pandemic putting traditional teaching mechanisms on the back foot, students are becoming more open to 'learning and doing things by themselves.' One of the most significant benefits of technology in education is that it makes learning more accessible to everyone. Students with learning disabilities can use technology to learn at their own speed. Tech-enabled classrooms also provide assistance to the visually handicapped in the form of auditory aids. Technology in education allows students to learn in remote areas.

Some of the tools that schools can use for tech first education include:

• STEM enabled education

STEM education encompasses more than just academic courses. It provides a skill set that guides our thinking and behavior. Each STEM component contributes in its own way, Science provides students with a thorough awareness of the world around them. It assists them in improving their research and critical skills. Technology helps students to work in a high-tech workplace.  Engineering allows students to improve their problem-solving abilities and apply what they have learned to new tasks. Mathematics allows students to assess data, eliminate errors, and make conscious decisions. STEM education brings all these disciplines together in a unified framework, to improve society through innovation and long-term solutions. STEM education helps students enhance their creativity levels, improve teamwork, and heighten their critical thinking skills. Apart from cultivating interest in science, math, engineering, technology, and other fields, this form of education also develops students' communication skills and encourages them to take initiative. Students not only become more curious about learning, but STEM also improves their cognitive skills. STEM education has become an integral part of the curriculum in the 21^st century. Schools are working towards offering courses and assessments that amalgamate technology and engineering in science and mathematics. In an increasingly competitive world, the aim is to produce students who can keep pace with this technology-first world.

• Coding and Robotics

As an extension of STEM learning, robotics and Coding have emerged as an essential part of modern learning. When students learn to code, they learn to think in a sequential, logical, and problem-solving manner. Most importantly, they have the ability to create whatever they desire. The introduction of coding and robotics curricula in schools aids in the interest of students in block-based coding, which is an excellent stepping stone for individuals interested in pursuing a career in computer programming. Incorporating this learning in schools could help students develop computational and design thinking skills, while also teaching them how to collaborate with others. The students will find a different way to deal with problems in a more collaborative manner, which will sharpen their problem-solving and learning skills.

In addition to the above, schools can also leverage technology solutions provided by some of the noted brands, like Google for education, etc., which offer state of the art technology network infrastructure, that is customised to meet the teaching needs of schools.

In conclusion, the sooner children are equipped to think and play with tech, the more prepared they will be to not only adjust but to thrive. Also, it would not be too bold to say that in a tech-first world, it is only fair that the education not only mirrors this but also leads it, so as to be able to create a generation that can take this ahead.

Author:

Rohan Parikh, Managing Director – The Green Acres Academy