Our society is dominated by computerization and recent developments like Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Evidently, the trend shows the importance of equipping learners with detailed information about advanced technologies to prepare them for the future workforce.
Today’s education system is one of the areas that introduce learners to innovation from a tender age. According to World Bank reports, integrating information and communication technology in education prepares individuals for a digital future. In addition, it helps them deal with rapid developments in society, fosters critical thinking, and improves decision-making and collaboration skills.
In this article, we’ll analyze the role of information and technology in education but first, let’s understand the scope of digital media in the learning environment. The simplest definition of information technology in education is, “Combined use of various computer software, hardware, theories, and equipment to facilitate effective learning.”
The importance of information technology in education: How is digital technology used in the learning environment?
Let’s explore the application of information technology in education and its benefits in detail.
Information technology has transformed the education system by enhancing easy access to learning resources. Besides enabling individuals to conduct research without spending a lot of money purchasing textbooks and other reading materials, it connects them with professional academic writers from online writing companies dedicated to providing homework help to scholars struggling with their assignments. An excellent example of such platforms is CustomWritings, a reputable company where you can order essays online at affordable rates. You can always contact the website if you need expert guidance or help with your papers of any complexity.
Information technology is a reliable system that supports students and instructors in multiple ways. Learning institutions use it to attain a wide range of objectives in different settings. Check out some useful techniques used to integrate technology in classrooms:
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- Online learning
Online learning is one of the cheapest and most convenient ways used by students who wish to further their studies, thanks to information technology. Learning platforms like Moodle, Blackboard, and Zoom meetings facilitate virtual learning and allow instructors to communicate with their students without face-to-face interaction. Besides promoting engagement, these resources help scholars to manage their time and become more productive and organized.
- PowerPoint presentations
PowerPoint presentations facilitate effective learning by enabling instructors to introduce classroom concepts. Teachers use slides to present ideas that require graphics. In addition, they encourage students to work in teams and document their findings in PowerPoint. These activities promote active participation in classroom activities.
- Virtual examinations and grading
Information technology enhances effective test administration and grading. In addition, systems like PowerSchool enable teachers and administrators to post grades and analyze every student’s performance.
- Education management
Learning institutions can use software like Listserv to track learners’ progress. The technology allows teachers and parents to interact by sending and receiving important updates about upcoming school activities like academic days and discussing their students’ welfare.
The benefit of information technology in education: Relevance in promoting effective learning
Incorporating information technology in education has numerous goals. However, the primary aim is to support and enhance the optimal delivery of content to learners. Here is a list of the main advantages:
- Information technology enhances creativity among students
Integrating information technology in education improves students’ knowledge and skills, enabling them to acquire the relevant expertise needed in the dynamic world. Technology exposes individuals to recent developments, thus sparking their interests in different sectors that require innovativeness and creativity. Furthermore, exposure to information on areas such as computer science promotes the students’ participation.
- Information technology promotes diversity in education
Technology supports various learning tools including listening systems, reading guides, graphic organizers, and other assistive learning resources for students with different needs. As a result, it enhances diversity by allowing individuals to attend classes and gain knowledge regardless of their socioeconomic status and disabilities. In addition, it allows students from different ethnicities and those with learning challenges like poor concentration to learn at their own pace since they can easily access information whenever they need it.
- Information technology improves access to information and knowledge for learners and instructors
Online learning resources help learners and educators to expand their knowledge in different areas. For instance, the internet allows individuals to access research materials irrespective of their geographical location and other factors. In addition, distance education and discussion forums allow learners to share information and interact with others at their convenience.
The internet is a rich data source with a variety of learning resources for students. Most learning institutions are shifting to online libraries to facilitate easy access to research materials and their storage.
- Information technology enhances interaction among students in the classroom
Integrating information technology in education promotes active learning and interaction among students, especially among visual and auditory learners, thus improving their interpersonal skills. Technological tools like voice recorders, web design editors, spreadsheet, word processor, and graphics editing programs spark learners’ interest and promote a positive attitude toward learning, thus encouraging them to air their opinions. Furthermore, they promote active participation, even among introverts. For instance, online discussion forums allow students to share their opinions without fear of being criticized. Such initiatives promote teamwork and critical thinking.
Information technology also promotes collaboration between students and teachers, thus enabling them to share ideas and get new insights into trending topics and subjects.
- Equips students with relevant skills needed in the job market
Integrating information technology in the classroom prepares students for the future by helping them to learn the practical application of skills like preparing PowerPoint presentations and typing using Microsoft Word processor. Therefore, teachers should introduce learners to instructional technology from a tender age.
- Information technology makes learning interesting
One of the primary objectives of incorporating information technology in education is to make learning more exciting and engaging.
Use of information technology in education: Does it really improve learning outcomes?
Learning institutions are embracing modern information technology to facilitate the delivery of education to all students. As we have seen in the above sections, advancements in technology have the power to accelerate learning, enhance knowledge acquisition, facilitate skills development, and bridge socioeconomic gaps that hinder learners from accessing quality education. But does it really improve the quality of education and its outcomes?
According to our research, digital information technology plays a critical role in facilitating education. A significant percentage of learning institutions rely on computer technology to deliver reading materials, gauge students’ learning abilities, administer examinations, and engage learners in different other academic tasks to students outside their premises. As the world evolves, so do teaching methods and requirements in the job market. Therefore, countries should strive to improve their education systems by adopting new teaching methods to enhance equitable, fun, and engaging learning for scholars at different academic levels.
