The future impact of technology on teaching and learning

Dear reader,

Welcome back! Last time I was talking about how VR can be applied in the classroom. This time, I would like to explore the future impact of technology on teaching and learning.

Firstly, the role of the teacher will change. In the future, it can be expected that many students would rely on VR, iPad, e-learning platform or online classes to acquire information. So, if all these platforms are already equipped with content and help to connect with peers all over the world, what is the future of the teachers? I tried to ask my HK friend who is now studying in Bachelor of Education (Business) about her view. She said that it is inevitable to stop the trend, but the role of the teachers is changing to act more like a curator or guide. Her professor also emphasized that the teaching format had already switched from a giver to a guider. A successful teacher is to create opportunities for students to have more motivation on their learning material. It will be the best if teachers can encourage students about self-learning. Therefore, technologies in education is not to replace teachers, but make the role of the teachers become more important than ever.

Secondly, the relationship between teachers and students can be more closed. In my University, some professors would rely on e-learning platform for us to exchange ideas. That's mean we don't have normal classes for tutoring sessions, instead we can stay at home and use the online platform to share our view on certain topics. Usually, the professors will raise up some questions while we can express our view. This learning method not only is very interactive, but also can let us explore more interesting topics that are not state on the book.

So, what's should be the next step to apply technology in education.

If we just simply digitizing traditional learning materials, like turning printed text into e-books or let students to do online exams, it can't really improve the learning quality. Instead, more engaging and emotional connections with learning materials should be created using technology.  For example, creating more online games in education can let students experience challenges, finding solutions, overcoming difficulties, success failure, etc. Moreover, providing 1 on 1 online coaching secession will be a personalized way for students to learn. Sometimes students are afraid to ask in front of the class. With the online coaching platform, they can ask teachers privately without any embarrassment, so as to motivate them to learn.

Is there any impact of future technology on teaching and learning you can think of? Share your view to me!