As innovation in education technology continues to make giant leaps forward, it’s important to follow trends to determine which are passing fads and which are worth investing in.
A mix of new and developing technologies is allowing the concept of the ‘classroom’ to expand from on-campus spaces to anywhere people want to learn. Here’s a look at five technology trends that will be making a big impact on students and educators in 2024.
For the second year in a row, artificial intelligence (AI) takes the top spot. The technology has been in the spotlight for the past year, but it’s not going anywhere. It continues to evolve to be useful in an increasing number of applications, and education is no exception.
Instructors are already using AI to help detect plagiarism, but they can use it to save time on administrative tasks like generating grade reports and planning assignments. They can also use it to identify students who may be struggling, as well as parts of the curriculum that could be improved. Students can also use it to customize tutoring and fill in learning gaps.
AI overlaps with some of the industry’s other trends like personalized and immersive learning. As important as many of these use cases are, AI is also valuable in how it can help facilitate a more equitable learning experience. For example, chatbots can provide non-threatening interactions, and AI-powered video conferencing and online courses can ensure more equitable visibility and air time. However, it’s also possible for AI to have a negative effect on equity. For example, inaccessibility and cost barriers can create inequity, and chatbots and AI image applications may rely on culturally or racially biased data.
The next generation of online learning is focused on mobile-first initiatives, with cloud-based applications that can be accessed via a browser or from any device. This tech improves learning accessibility and improves diversity because courses can be taken by anyone from any location.
Personalized and self-directed learning can be applied in a number of forms. Students are able to set their own educational goals and learn according to their own preferences and skill levels. Technologies like mobile apps, AI, microlearning modules, and more can be used to customize learning.
Learning immersively means a student is engulfed in the experience–whether it be in a language, a simulated job task, or a lesson via extended reality (XR) technologies (like virtual, augmented, and mixed reality tools). VR games, healthcare simulation stations, AI-powered simulations, and 360 interactive video are just some of the methods you can use to offer immersive learning experiences.
Schools, educators, and students are increasingly interested in technologies and practices that are eco-friendly and sustainable. Administrators will be looking for less wasteful, more energy-efficient technologies, including more affordable digital learning and cloud solutions. They’ll also be better equipped to use data to gauge waste and plan more efficiently timed technology upgrades.
Nationwide Audio Visual has been an edtech provider for decades, helping schools and universities make the most of their technology investments. If you’re considering new technology to support any of these trends, let us know how we can help. Give us a call or send us a message today.