Technology has introduced new teaching and learning solutions into the system. And this radical shift is now a new reality of our educational landscape.
Digital technologies have not just changed but also improved the ways we teach and learn. This article aims to explore the various dimensions of the EdTech revolution.
Here’s more about the opposite sides of the same coin, the pros and cons of technology in education!
Starting with the pros:
(1) Tech-skills in the digital world
The first and the most obvious benefit of technology in education is the opportunity for students to improve their technical skills. They can be more tech-savvy through online schooling or digital learning and later use their knowledge to master disciplines. In terms of job prospects, the IT sector is already a booming prospect in India. And in the years to come, it is estimated to dominate the job markets more than ever.
According to ‘Financial Express’, the IT sector increased its hiring activity by a massive 52% during the pandemic. And it is expecting to meet its vision of reaching a revenue of 300-350 billion by the year 2025.
Just to add in here, technical skills are not confined to one’s knowledge of technology. Instead, it is also a great support to hone skillsets of the 21st-century such as ‘soft’ and ‘transferable’ new-age skills.
(2) Saves productive time and energy
Technology in education reduces human effort and minimizes chances of errors. It empowers teachers to track attendance, assess performances, and gauge learning gaps without investing much time and energy. With the automated inbuilt mechanisms, they can now keep a check on the student’s learning without devoting much of their productive time. In this way, technology helps them to focus on other important tasks. And also reduces the chances of any human errors. Tech-savvy teachers can use their time better to improve the student’s learning. Because they have the scope of creating and arranging for new and updated material using the time that they spared through these innovative solutions.
(3) Students can be the masters of their own learning
Another clear-cut advantage of technology in education is that students take better ownership of their learning. They become the master of their learning process. And choose the pace and style to master the subject matter. This increased control over the learning makes them aware of their abilities, strengths, and weaknesses. And eventually, this self-awareness leads to meaningful and efficient learning.
Top digital schooling platforms use an advanced learning platform, and students can view their performance, scores, areas of improvement, etc. through detailed data insights. Basis their performances, independent online students can select appropriate learning material and modes. And this helps them to make the most of their self-paced learning schedules.
(4) Reduces academic stress
Academic load, parental expectations, poor lifestyle, and peer pressure, etc. create stressful situations for students in a traditional schooling environment. On the other hand, the online learning environment can reduce the student’s academic stress considerably. Digital learning allows students to thrive in a positive learning environment. And this supports better learning outcomes for practically all types of learners.
Students who are introverted, gifted, at-risk, or differently-abled can find a safe haven through educational technology. And this mode of education also helps them to explore their hidden learning potential. Online schooling and homeschooling is also the perfect solution to resolve the challenges of regular schooling platforms. And students can now escape threats like school violence, abuse, and bullying.
(5) Boosts student-engagement
Active learning through online education supports deep conceptual understanding. Because it effortlessly involves students in their own learning process.
Remote learning through the use of technology also improves the student’s strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities. Besides, it also motivates the learners to master the subject matter before he/she unlocks the next level/lesson. Effective learning is also a booster for students to become confident and self-directed learners. And their level of engagement eventually makes the process more joyous and purposeful for them.
(6) Saves the environment
Technology in education is also a solution for various environmental challenges. It reduces the levels of pollution and saves the planet through environmentally sound technologies.
As per sources, there has been a decline of 60% in the wildlife land in the last over 40 years (estimated from the year 2018).
We are already on the verge of losing the ecological balance that is imperative for our survival. And by replicating technology in education, we can overcome these issues and also save costs of printing and paper.
Moving ahead, here’s a quick look at the cons of technology in education!
(1) Digital Divide
In developing counties like India, the digital divide is a big concern. Technology in education increases the disparity of educational opportunities for the ones who do not have access to digital technologies. The Urban-rural divide, gender divide, and inequalities of other types make technology-based education a medium only for the elite upper class. And in recent times, these stark differences have deepened and widened this divide.
Reports reveal that in India, 40% to 70% of the students do not have access to digital devices
(2) Plagiarism and unfair practices
Innovation in the teaching and learning process has also created challenges related to academic integrity. Online education has increased the chances of misconduct and misuse of information sources. It has increased the responsibilities of teachers to minimize these practices. Besides, at times, it is not even easy to identify if the content is genuinely and deliberately plagiarized.
(3) Teacher handholding
There are many students who need extensive teacher assistance throughout their learning process. And many such students find it difficult to study independently in an online learning environment. Tech-based learning can help only the students who can thrive independently. Hence, it can serve a limited section of students and not the 100% student population.
Let’s Conclude-
Technology in education can help students to broaden their horizons and prepare for the global workforce. Digital schooling and online learning are cost-effective solutions for students. And it can certainly help our students to achieve their long-term goals in the days to come!
Also Read: Sociology of Education
Pooja Sharma is an experienced educator, writer, and supermom. As a writer, she is a prestigious member of many popular communities on Facebook and other media. Many of her articles are featured in esteem magazines and newspapers. Her writings mostly revolve around Social issues, Parenting, and Educational trends.