5 Ways Technology Will Change Education Culture in 2020

The classroom looks different than it used to with limited devices and systems. Educational technology, or edtech, is now becoming universal. What used to be just computers in the school has now reached more innovative levels — remote learning, virtual reality (VR) and data are increasingly prominent.

As you start your career in education, you'll see the following innovations changing the classroom. The trajectory of technology, in general, is enough to bring about change. With COVID-19's effects, though, technology in the classroom is no longer an alternative, but a necessity. 

1. Teaching Techniques

Computers used to be the only devices in school. Then came the internet, which changed the way people find information and connect with one another. Fast forward to the present day and the classroom looks a lot different. The way teachers go about educating is almost always in a blended way.

Blended learning is the key to new teaching techniques. The educator used to be fully responsible for instructing dozens of students, but now they can get a little help from technology. Whether it's apps, software or programs, students can learn in new ways that fit their learning styles. A typical school day now is partly lesson-based with time to work with technology.

2. Remote Learning

As the coronavirus pandemic continues to disrupt education across the globe, most schools are focusing on remote learning. To do so, educators use video chats, online course materials and file sharing systems to recreate the same teacher-student dynamic as in-person learning. 

Remote learning can be difficult for some students. Since the pandemic creates a difficult environment to learn in, students need all the connections they can get. Keep in mind that they can't connect with friends and other students. All the resources they have are now digital.

Though remote learning will stay in place for however long COVID-19 lasts, elements of it will stick around for long after. For instance, online tutoring resources are popular now, but they will fully take off as a widespread option in the coming years.

3. Accessibility

Blended learning is the present and the future. Technology and learning have become inseparable. Though some people see negative effects of edtech, others point to accessibility as a key benefit. Technology provides access to learning that people may not usually have.

For instance, low-income individuals, those in developing countries or those with disabilities may not have access to schools or a fitting education. Technology provides an at-home learning experience. Students find resources, connect with teachers and learn more efficiently. 

Schools can work with students, too. Some individuals don't have a computer or internet access. Schools can integrate systems that promote accessibility by lending out laptops or providing free internet access. Ensuring that everyone learns is tech's new, accessible path.

4. Virtual Reality

Virtual reality is a hot commodity lately. It brings learning to a different level where students can interact with new environments and experiences. Augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality, too, are similar innovations. Each combines technology and reality in different ways, and education is integrating it all.

VR, AR and mixed reality are all examples of extended reality (XR) that offer immersive learning. Students can take virtual field trips, play games, learn systems and explore real-life scenarios. With firsthand experience, students become the center of the lesson. It gives them a new way to learn, showing how edtech is transforming the classroom.

5. Data-Driven Schooling

Big data is a big deal. It influences businesses and sales across the world. It's the systems that gather information, feedback and behaviors from consumers. For education, it can change how institutions interact with their students. 

Since data can show how students learn best, how they perform and what technology is helping them the most, education facilities can make important decisions to better help their students. In general, data can help students thrive. During the pandemic, using data to gauge these dynamics is essential. 

With more data-based decisions, students receive a better education, whether it's in-person or at-home. Ultimately, big data provides more personalization for students. Schools that rely on data will become more popular as technology continues to be a foundational resource. 

How Edtech Is Transforming the Classroom

COVID-19 is driving these digital innovations to become a new norm. Blended learning is a way to reach all students, both education-wise and in terms of location and resources.

This form of learning is essential during the pandemic. With apps, systems and software becoming new ways to teach and learn, the standard for school curriculums is becoming more and more digital every day.