Despite the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic, it also brought on the forefront the new concept of digital education readiness. This term refers to the ability of modern schools, vocational training, or higher education to respond to this crisis. When education is concerned, a proper response is to provide quality and uninterrupted education to all. Finally, despite the benefits digital education provides in this crisis, it also carries numerous advantages compared to traditional education.   

Importance of Digital Education

Nowadays, digital technology has dominated everyday life and therefore schools need to have digital education readiness. Based on that, this technology could not be missing from the classrooms for various reasons. First, it is important for students to familiarize themselves with technology since it is interwoven in modern society. Secondly, jobs in the IT and digital sectors are already in high demand and they will grow even more.

Digital education provides the following advantages:

• Equality: The underfunding of public schools there is an issue of equality right there. Technology creates a level playing field for all students. With the use of just a tablet, students have endless possibilities. First and foremost, they can learn coding from a young age, but also to have access to engaging digital material.
• Future: Technology already is but will continue even more to be part of everyday life. No matter what students do after school, either go directly to work or go to college, technology will play a big part. Therefore, it is important to familiarize themselves with all kinds of technology and platforms.
• Mobility: Technology allows for greater mobility and this can apply to many walks of life like studies or even work. Virtually, you can be studying or working from a different continent that leads to many exciting opportunities.

Digital Education Vs Traditional Education

The advantages of technology in the classroom are known for decades, but its adoption was slow. Adapting classrooms and teaching material to the use of technology tools first require funding and to train teachers. Especially in this time of crisis, digital education comes into the spotlight. Even the European Union saw the urgency to invest in digital education readiness pledging €100m in response to the challenges. But what are the benefits of students in a digital classroom in comparison to a traditional one?

1. Personalized learning: Private lessons are probably the best type of learning since they can adapt to the needs of students. However, private tutors are expensive and technology proves to be a cheaper alternative. A digital format allows teachers to adjust the learning material to the learning speed and capabilities of students.
2. Smarter Students: Digital tools allow the development of self-directed learning skills. Students have to analyze what they need to learn and search online for these resources. Also, technology makes them more efficient and productive. Finally, the use of digital learning tools and technology improves their critical thinking skills.
3. Self-motivation: The engaging way of providing the teaching material creates a unique interest in students to learn. It is more interactive and students can connect with the learning material.
4. Learning Opportunities: Digital learning allows us to learn anything, from anywhere, at any time.
5. Higher Engagement: The rich e-learning material that contains images, videos, VR, or interactive sessions creates a rich environment that students can learn easier and better.

Conclusion

Definitely, one of the positive outcomes of the coronavirus pandemic it would be the digital education readiness of schools. The whole situation forced schools to adopt digital learning tools in their curriculum in order to continue teaching their students. Finally, having highlighted the importance of digital education it is certain that this year will be the starting point for the wider adoption of e-learning tools in classrooms worldwide.

iED has acquired vast experience and expertise through the implementation of EU projects for over 15+ years. Specifically, iED recognizes digital education as an important sector with great potential and is always looking for new and innovative solutions to support it.

If you are interested to learn more about the work of iED on digital Education click here!