Role of technology in modern education

 

( English  geography students attending ICT class)

The introduction of advanced technology is one of the remarkable innovations of humankind that has revolutionized education society. Technology has fundamentally changed the way the students and teachers approach education. The modern classroom is no longer confined to physical walls, instead technology has established a world of possibilities, shaping the learning experiences of students. From personalized learning to ever-evolving digital landscape, technology’s influence is both far-reaching and transformative. With the enhancement of technology, learning has become much more effective, fun and fruitful. The implementation of modern technology has drastically enhanced student learning as it has redefined the role of educators and provided access to educational resources. However, it has also exposed the negative impacts such as unequal access to resources.

 

The role of technology in the modern classroom has redefined the role of educators enhancing the learning experience of students. Teachers are embracing technology as an ally in this digital age. Embracing technology as a valuable tool, their method of teaching has become more convenient fostering students with a dynamic learning experience. Modern technology creates dynamic classes that capture students’ interest and take into account various learning styles by utilizing digital resources to improve their teaching techniques (Rosenbusch, 2023). Additionally, using technology teachers make classes exciting which engages students and improves their learning.  For instance, teachers create virtual lessons with the use of online platforms to engage students and promote equal participation. The role of teachers has changed from teaching to a facilitator and guide while integrating modern technology. Teachers are not only delivering information to students but also helping them to explore their own independent learning. According to Kapadia (2023), student-centered learning has taken the place of teacher-centered learning in schools, and this approach gives recognition to each student's individuality and promotes autonomous inquiry, active engagement, and critical thinking. Moreover, students can better understand the subject matter because of technology. As a result, technology’s influence in the modern classroom has changed the role of teachers, enhancing students’ learning.

 

 

Technology provides students with access to educational resources. In this digital era, students can explore educational resources such as e-books, research papers, articles and digital textbooks. This easy access to information empowers students to broaden their knowledge. Through the help of technology, students can instantly access an array of knowledge and resources. Students can investigate a variety of topics, conduct research, and access educational resources that might not be found in traditional educational materials and access to the internet and digital tools (Explorance, 2023). Moreover, technology improves education and acquires students ready for the digital world. For instance, in Bhutan students of tertiary education use digital tools such as padlet for learning, eventually enhancing exposure to technology-based learning. Access to educational resources also foster collaboration and resource sharing among students. Additionally, online learning platforms enable students not only to develop individually but also connect with peers and experts by sharing resources which facilitate collaboration. As Tosato (2014) notes, the spread of the Internet and the latest Web developments have facilitated the connection between teachers, learners and institutions, as well as the creation and sharing of new open educational resources. For example, students and teachers together discuss subject matter through online communication platform telegram. As a result, modern classrooms use technology to give students access to educational information.

 

Moreover, unequal access to technological resources is a challenge to equity in education. Students studying in rural schools have limited access to resources such as digital books, online data, and research papers due to unequal distribution of technological resources. Unequal access to technology hinders their active participation in learning. Students will not be able to engage in learning with limited access to information resulting in lower academic performance. Additionally, they will also face challenges in interpreting complex concepts and exploring different perspectives due to limited understanding. As stated in GoGuardian (2023), Many students do not have access to technology at home. While some people only have access to a smartphone and no data plan, others are connected to the internet and have multiple devices. This unequal access to digital resources will hinder students' learning and lead to disparities in academic performance. For instance, students without access to technology often struggle to complete assignments on time lacking technological sources. Therefore, it is important to address these issues to ensure equality and access to quality education. Inequality in access to technological resources will also hinder students' continuous learning and self-growth. Equal access to technology is not available to every child across schools resulting in differences in student learning. According to Thomson (2019), the persistent achievement gaps between students are a result of unequal access to high quality technological resources both inside and outside of the classroom. Without fair access to resources such as technology, tutoring and enriching cultural experiences, students frequently find it difficult to maintain long-term academic progress and personal development. As a result, unequal access to technology is a barrier to educational equity.

 

In conclusion, the evolution of advanced technology in modern classrooms has transformed the education system. It has certainly influenced independent online learning, collaboration and resource sharing among keen learners breaking down physical barriers altering the way students and teachers engage in learning. This shift in the education system has made education effective and enjoyable. In this digital era technology has a great potential to enhance educational engagement and information exchange between educators and learners. Introduction of technology has redefined the role of educators and provided access to educational resources. However, it is important to know that technology’s impact is not without drawbacks. Equity in learning and access to high quality education is a challenge because of unequal access to resources. Thus, it is important to provide equal access to available resources and opportunities for students.