Easy access to the internet and modern mobile devices has changed the way we communicate and, by default, had an impact on how or where we live. But what’s more interesting, is the fact that modern technologies re-shaped our relationship with the educational system.
Sadly, we are so accustomed to having easy access to information that, sometimes, it may be difficult to recognize just how much technology is behind our current way of living. In addition, without doing a bit of research, it’s just as difficult to assess how its influence will change young and future generations.
We took a look into how modern technology is changing the way our kids learn and discovered a world where the educational system could be customizable, flexible, easy to access, and quite fun. If this conclusion comes as a surprise, have a look at the way technology enables continuity in education and supports a world where everyone will be able to learn whenever and whatever they want.
Borderless Access to Education
Before online learning became a thing, access to education was restricted by your geographic location. For instance, if you wanted to become a lawyer (or anything in the field of law), you had to move to a city with a strong university, so you can get your law degree. However, not everyone can afford to relocate and pay the education fees required by the university of their choice.
On the other hand, nowadays, almost anyone can afford a smartphone or a laptop and an internet connection. That’s pretty much what you need to enroll in online courses at the university of your choice and start learning for the degree you want. True, not all universities offer online classes, but most famous teachers teach at least one or two online courses using various online platforms.
In the end, easy access to a communication medium like the Internet changed the way we access information and opened the world of higher education to everyone, regardless of their geographic location.
The BYOD Policy
Also known as the Bring Your Own Device policy, it’s a recent practice that allows students to use their own devices in class and for various projects. While it may not sound like something that would be successful, when implemented correctly, the policy showed promising results.
For instance, the main advantages of BYOD are:
- Cutting down costs for schools (IT labs are expensive to maintain and keep up to date)
- Faster implementation since students feel more comfortable using their own devices
- Easy access to the same platforms for all students – once everything is set up, students can access educational resources in class and outside of it
- Up to date and performant devices that can handle modern software tools – students are more likely to keep their devices up to date
- Access to education regardless of location
Customization & Flexibility
While most educational programs are considered rigid, most teachers and specialists involved in education recognize that the environment has mellowed down since modern technologies got involved.
Due to online education platforms, teachers can choose how to share their expertise and experience. Therefore, a teacher can follow the school-imposed program but also create fun and easy-to-follow online courses outside the school’s reach. This allows students to decide on the type of education they want.
In addition, as the world needs more experts in certain areas, we start to see some of the bigger tech actors of the world getting involved in education (Facebook, Google, and others). As a result, more people have access to professional educators and specialists who are happy to share their knowledge and help shape new generations.
In summary, without the support of modern technologies, our current view of the world and the future we can envision, may not have existed.
