Over the years, education systems have undergone a number of substantial changes, from ancient teaching practices to traditional classrooms and now technology-enabled learning. A generation ago, education was associated with classrooms, teachers and textbooks, and it was unimaginable taking classes online or through digital channels. However, technological advancements accelerated by the pandemic have disrupted the education system especially over the past two years. To further aid in this shift, innovators like Alef Education, which embrace digital transformation, have taken teaching and learning practices into new realms via edtech solutions.
Let’s delve into the trending innovations that are shaping the future of education.
A whole new metaverse
Think about taking the students on a tour of sites of ancient ruins and forts or to the Louvre Museum, all the while sitting in the comfort of homes or classrooms and simultaneously teaching and learning about them? The metaverse makes all this possible through real-like virtual learning experiences for students.
“Though it is still in its nascent stage, K12 schools are already exploring its possibilities, considering its immense capabilities that can shape an enhanced future of education technology.”
Moreover, it could provide global experts with the opportunity to tutor and mentor students online. Ultimately, the metaverse will make learning more interactive and engaging for students as well as expand the boundaries for what is possible in education. Though it is still in its nascent stage, K12 schools are already exploring its possibilities, considering its immense capabilities that can shape an enhanced future of education technology.
Keeping up with virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR)
With its capability to offer immersive experiences, share information in new and engaging ways that can tackle barriers of cost or distance, VR and AR are a promising addition to the edtech sector. At the GESS, Alef Education showcased the possibilities presented by VR technology through a virtual trip to Mars using the technology. Unlike a plain image of Mars, the real-like experience nurtured curiosity in students to learn more about it. As AR and VR are being integrated widely in the learning ecosystem, educators can teach more effectively and students can learn more efficiently, further enhancing learning experiences.
A personal touch with AI and big data
Like most of the industries, artificial intelligence (AI) and big data are here to revolutionise the education sector. By effectively integrating AI in the learning ecosystem, teachers can reduce admin time and other tasks and focus more on the students.
Earlier, teachers did not have the time or the tools to concentrate on each student and their needs and rather adopted the traditional classroom teaching practice, but AI, coupled with predictive analysis, has opened avenues to customise the curriculum based on each student’s capability. Alef Education has been a vocal advocate of integrating latest technological innovations in the education ecosystem, with a vision to transform the sector through award-winning solutions like Alef Platform.
Bringing gamification into classrooms
Learning through games and receiving incentives for completing the process has been an age-old technique to motivate students to learn better. The edtech sector has leveraged gamification to enhance the learning process, further improving student engagement. For instance, the Abjadiyat platform by Alef Education has integrated games with educational content to teach Arabic language. Gamification can complement traditional learning methods and enhance outcomes in a more entertaining way.
Simply learn asynchronously
Asynchronous learning can be considered as a pioneering trend of 2022 and is expected to retain popularity in the future, as it allows the students to learn and progress at their own pace and convenience. Unlike traditional teaching practices, the students are under no pressure of attending the classes along with their peers and instructors. Though the concept was introduced by the end of the 19th century, it became popular in recent times and is expected to be a trending concept in the coming years.
The evolution of edtech has gained momentum in recent years, and leading industry players have geared up to offer the most effective and engaging learning experiences. The education ecosystem continues to develop and adapt to the global transformations taking place. With the advancements in technology, the abilities of educators and students are also advancing, and the edtech sector has played a significant role in facilitating these developments.
The writer is the CEO of Alef Education
