The high paced technological advancements that the world is experiencing today indicate that a fourth industrial revolution is imminent. This digital revolution has disrupted the education sector, as well. Thanks to information technology, the usage of the latest technologies such as AR (Augmented Reality), AI (Artificial Intelligence), or VR (Virtual Reality) are fairly widespread. This is a pivotal time for educators to employ up-to-date technologies in pedagogical tools to generate exceptional learning outcomes.
COVID-19 was disastrous for the entire world, but it also taught us that parallel technological trends could be adapted exceptionally quickly. We can shift from conventional learning to digital-ready, fully integrated environments when required. During the pandemic, the unexpected need for remote classrooms was the pilot testing of prospering technological trends that were unprecedented, especially in the educational sector.
The technological momentum, once started, can only move forward! Read below some of the latest technological trends expected to sweep the educational sphere in 2022.
Back to School
During the lockdown, many people turned to online programs to learn new soft skills or complete their pending degree programs virtually. This inclination might as well herald a long-standing educational trend.
According to data insights of 2021, a 27% increase has been observed in people returning to education. Furthermore, the demand for jobs with a graduate or post-graduate degree in any industry has increased by 54%. Therefore, it is high time for academia to create lifelong learning engagement with their students.
E-Learning is here to stay!
E-learning is one of the most trending education mediums and will remain so for years to come as it is affordable, flexible, and convenient. Various modern courses like STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), including language skills, computer basics, IT, and much more, are easily accessible online. Evolving digital trends in modern education also optimize time management to a great extent for both course creators and learners.
The year 2022 is the year of digital evolution as various people from diverse backgrounds are interactively learning new-age soft skills – all thanks to technological advancements!
Upcoming Trends in Online or Digital Education
Blended Learning
Blended learning is a fusion of conventional educational methods and digital educational materials. Both strategies have their shortcomings and advantages – blended learning aims to get the best from both by merging their strengths into a blended education model.
Automatic Grading
Automatic grading incorporates AI-powered methods of assessment that automate grading of quizzes, tests, assignments, homework, essays, etc. Automated grading is an efficient and flexible process that reduces the workload for educators, making it one of the most in-demand trends of the digital age.
E-books
Digital textbooks or e-books are accessible to the students 24/7 from anywhere. Learners can, with a simple touch, accentuate or bookmark these books. The most notable advancement of this technology is the audio availability of almost every book for visually impaired learners. Also, these books reduce the environmental impact caused by the excessive use of paper. Hence, this trend is inclusive and environmentally friendly.
Riveting Learning via VR/AR
Most of us are well aware of AR/VR technology trends in the educational sector that make learning an interactive and fun experience. AR/VR technology provides extremely engaging platforms for Gen Z learners as they have a considerably shorter attention span and enjoy this unique learning methodology.
This advanced trend enables students to tune out distractions and immerse entirely in learning. AR/VR is an exceptional tool for learners with ADD/ADHD because users can fully engage in the digital terrain. AR technology is predicted to be the most thriving trend in 2022 as it proffers novel insights into every student.
Gamification
Nowadays, gamification is one of the most up-to-date trends in the educational sphere. Several educators are shifting from traditional practices to the gamification of their lessons. In this digitally evolving age, gamification makes learning convenient, serves as an engaging medium for students, and helps develop excitement and interest in education and learning.
Various gamification models include an innovative game-based learning environment where everyone, be it a child or adult, can learn modern subjects without any prior knowledge. Such concepts make learning a fun and interactive experience for the future!
Logical Learning
We all know the value of data, and gradually, the educational sector also realizes its importance. This logical learning methodology is an upcoming trend that enables educators to acquire insights via trainee feedback. It is a two-way process that keeps one focused on the learning activity, and the unique insights gathered provide valuable data for future improvement.
Video Assistive Education
The most popular methodology, which is only expected to grow in the coming year, is assistive video learning. Due to the increased usage of digital gadgets and the internet, videos have gained exceptional importance. Videos have the power to make education more interactive, fluid, and engaging. Today, assistive video learning has made education easier and flexible, and in the future, billions of people will prefer videos for entertainment and education purposes.
Wrapping up
Like everything else, COVID-19 also severely affected the educational sector. Due to the strict protocols required to prevent the spread of the contagious virus, educational institutes around the globe adopted various technological advancements like online classes, AI-powered learning, gamification, updated courses, and much more. This resulted in the forced digitization of education systems around the world. New digital trends in the education sector are changing how previously envisioned teaching and learning are. These trends, if leveraged properly, can be a game-changer for how education is imparted – leading to a more inclusive and accessible learning system for everyone.
Author Bio
Maliha Safiullah is a Former Correspondent for 60 Minutes, Channel Nine Australia and is a published writer having worked as a Feature Writer for Dawn News, Pakistan.
