The Future Of Education In The Digital Age -By Felicity Tarkighir

The future of education in the digital age is full of promise and potentials. the impact of the internet and online learning is transforming the way people learn,and it is opening up new opportunities for education. Technology is also changing the way that teacher’s teach, and it is helping the students develop skills they need for the future.

However, there are also some challenges that comes with this shift, and we need to be prepared for them. But overall, the future of education looks bright and it will be shaped by powerful forces of technology and innovation.

One of the biggest changes that technology is bringing to education is the shift from passive learning to active learning. In the past students were often expected to sit and listen to lectures and then complete homework assignments. But with the rise of technology, students are now able to engage with the material in more active ways. For example they can use simulations, games and other interactive tools to learn. this shift is making education more engaging and effective.

In addition to changing the way students learn, technology is also changing the role of the teacher. In the past, teachers were often seen as the sole source of knowledge in the classroom. But with the rise of technology, teachers are now becoming more like facilitators of learning. They are helping students to find information and guide them as they explore new ideas. This is a very different role of teachers and it’s an important one.

THE IMPACTS OF TECHNOLOGY ON THE COST OF EDUCATION.

The impact of technology on student assessment: in the past, assessment were mostly limited to tests and quizzes, but now technology is allowing for a much wider range of assessments. For example, students can now create videos, blogs and presentations to demonstrate their understanding of the material. This is giving teachers a much better sense of how will students are learning.

Accessibility: in the past, education was often limited by factors like geography, income and ability. But now with the rise of technology, education is becoming more accessible than ever before. For example, students can now access materials and take classes online regardless of their locations. This is opening up new opportunities for the students all over the world.

Impact of technology on cost of education: in the past, education was often very expensive, and it was out of reach for many people, but now with the help of technology, education is becoming more affordable. For example, there are now a number of free or low-cost online courses available. This is making education more accessible and affordable for a wider range of people.

Impact of collaboration: in the past, students work alone on their assignments. But with technology , students are now able to collaborate with each other in a new way. For example, they can use online tools to work together on projects, and they can share ideas and feedback with each other. This is creating a more collaborative and supportive learning environment.
Changing the relationship between teachers and students: before teachers were seen as the “sage on the stage” and they controlled the flow of information in the classroom. But with technology, the relationship between teachers and students is becoming more of a partnership. For example, students are now able to ask questions and seek help from their teachers at any time, thanks to online platform and tools.

The impact on creating and critical thinking: students are now able to use technology to explore their own ideas and solve problems in a new way. This is creating a generation of learners who are more effective and innovative.
Impact of technology on the way we learn about the world around us: in the past, most information was static and unchanging. But with technology, information is now dynamic and constantly evolving. For example, students can now use online resources to explore topics like history and science in real time. This is helping them to see how the world is constantly changing and evolving.
The impact of technology on personalisation: in the past, education was often one-size-fit-all. But now with technology, education is now becoming more personalized. For example online learning platforms are able to tailor lessons to the individual needs of each student. This is allowing students to learn at their own pace and in their own way.

CHALLENGES THAT COMES WITH THE RISE OF TECHNOLOGY IN EDUCATION.

Digital divide: not everyone has the access to the same level of technology, and this can create a divide between those who don’t.
The issue of screen time: some people worry that too much time spent in front of screens can be detrimental to the health and development of students.
Privacy and data security: as more and more data is collected about students, there are concerns about how that data is being used and protected.

SOLUTIONS TO THE DIGITAL DIVIDE.

Ensure that all students have access to the technology they need. This can be done through initiatives like the one laptop per child program.
Ensure that teachers are trained on how to use technology in the classroom effectively.
Ensure there are strong, privacy and security policies in place to protect student data.

In conclusion, technology is having a huge impact on education, and it is changing the way students learn and they way teacher’s teach. There are both challenges and solutions associated with the use of technology in education. But ultimately, technology has the potential to make learning more engaging, personalised and collaborative.

Felicity Tarkighir
Mass Communication Department. Borno State University, Maiduguri.