Educational technology is evolving in new and exciting ways. From the ancient abacus, to handheld calculators, to classroom film strips, to virtual reality, and to next-generation eLearning, it continues to inspire teachers and students.
The technology we use is constantly changing how we create, communicate, and work. It’s no surprise that digital technology is transforming education.
Teachers have new opportunities to stimulate and enrich the minds of students. There is a growing interest in the possibilities of assistive technology, virtual reality, high-tech collaborative tools, podcasting and blogging, 3D printers, artificial intelligence and personalized learning.
We’ll look at some of the most promising educational technology examples and EdTech trends. Let’s first examine what we mean by educational technologies, since the term can be used to describe both:
- Both theory and practice of educational methods to learn, as well
- The tools of technology that aid in the creation and dissemination of knowledge
What is Educational Technology ?
The definition of educational technologies is the tools and media which assist in the development of knowledge and its communication.
Gamification is a method of combining learning and play by using gaming as a tool for instruction, says Newman. He explains that the use of gaming technology in the classroom can make difficult subjects more interesting and interactive.
Virtual Field Trip :
Visit famous places such as the Empire State Building and the Great Barrier Reef, or visit them in advance by using technology.
Participating a WebQuest :
encourages students to gather and analyze information through an exciting twist on the research process. They could, for example, be asked to play the detective and solve a “case” by collecting clues on a particular curriculum topic through investigating specific sources and web pages.
Podcasting :
Playing podcasts or helping students create their own can be an excellent way to enhance lessons, engage auditory learner and empower students to develop creative skills.
That educational technology strategist David Andrade believes that online learning, makerspaces and virtual reality will become mainstream in the next four to five year.
Teachers will be the ones who in the future innovate, as they develop the skills and knowledge to find the most effective and engaging ways to implement educational technology strategies both in the classroom and the virtual classrooms.
What is Educational Technology?
A second definition of educational technologies focuses on the theory of using new technology in order to create and implement innovative educational methods to improve student learning and achievement.
Teachers are behind all of the high-tech gadgets and digital bells. They have the skills and inspiration to make the most of these tools to broaden the educational horizons of their students.
A report from the International Society for Technology (IST) states that “the most compelling topics for educators who use technology for teaching and learning are not the technologies themselves, but the students.”
Students will benefit from increased opportunities for personalized education, collaborative classrooms, and new strategies like “flipped learning” where students are exposed to subject matter outside of the classroom (often via the internet), and classroom time is then used to further understanding through discussions and problem-solving exercises with peers.
Earning a master’s degree in educational technology will help teachers make an impact on this field. It’s not just about learning the latest tools, techniques and strategies, but also understanding the structures needed to achieve the best results. They include:
A master’s degree is a valuable tool for teachers who are motivated by the enormous potential of educational technologies.
Careers In Educational Technology
David Warlick, a pioneer in education technology, says that we need to have technology in all classrooms and in the hands of every teacher and student. “It is the pen and the paper of today, and the lens through our which we see much of the world.”
Recent years have seen a rise in interest in educational technologies. This has led to new degree programs designed to help educators adopt an innovative mindset and become technology leaders for their classrooms, schools, or districts.
The best programs are designed to provide a thorough understanding of educational technology tools, theories, practices and other critical issues. These are the essential elements for technology-enhanced educational programs to achieve their potential of inspiring student learning, achievement, and creativity.
The University of San Diego is well known for its innovative online Master of Education Program. Now, they are launching a specialization. The program is designed to prepare teachers to become effective K-12 technology leaders and coaches, virtual educators and instructional innovators who embrace technology-influenced teaching practices to empower student learning.
This program is fully online, allowing busy educators to earn their master’s in 20 months. They can learn from experts in the field and interact with other teachers across the country.