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What is Educational Technology? [Definition, Examples & Impact]

• Tools & Media
• Theory & Practice
• Value of a Master’s Degree

From the ancient abacus to handheld calculators, from slide projectors and classroom film strips to virtual reality and next-generation e-learning, educational technology continues to evolve in exciting new ways — inspiring teachers and students alike.

Technology is continually changing the way we work and play, create and communicate. So it’s only natural that advancements in digital technology are also creating game-changing opportunities in the world of education.

For teachers, technology is opening up new possibilities to enrich and stimulate young minds. Today, there is growing excitement around the potential for assistive technology, virtual and augmented reality, high-tech collaboration tools, gamification, podcasting, blogging, 3D printing, artificial intelligence, personalized learning and much more.

Here, we’ll explore some of the most promising examples of educational technology and some specific edtech tools and trends. But first let’s take a closer look at what we mean when we talk about “educational technology,” because the discussion can refer to both:

• The theory and practice of educational approaches to learning, as well as
• The technological tools that assist in the development and communication of knowledge

What is Educational Technology?

One important definition of educational technology focuses on “the technological tools and media that assist in the communication of knowledge, and its development and exchange.”

Take augmented reality and virtual reality , for example. Writing about the “Top 6 Digital Transformation Trends In Education” in Forbes.com, technology innovation specialist Daniel Newman discusses using AR and VR to “enhance teacher instruction while simultaneously creating immersive lessons that are fun and engaging for the student.” He invites us to imagine using virtual reality to transport students to ancient Greece.

Gamification combines playing and learning by utilizing gaming as an instructional tool, according to Newman, who explains that incorporating gaming technology into the classroom “can make learning difficult subject matter more exciting and interactive.”

Regarding artificial intelligence , Newman notes that a university in Australia used IBM’s Watson to create a virtual student advisory service that was available 24/7/365. Apparently Watson’s virtual advisors fielded more than 30,000 questions in the first trimester, freeing up human advisors to handle more complex issues.

ProwdigyGame.com, whose free curriculum-aligned math game for Grades 1-8 is used by millions of students, teachers and parents, offers specific tips for leveraging educational technology tools in a report titled “25 Easy Ways to Use Technology in the Classroom.” Their ideas include:

• Running a Virtual Field Trip : Explore famous locations such as the Empire State Building or the Great Barrier Reef; or preview actual field trips by using technology to “visit” the locations beforehand.
• Participating in a Webquest : These educational adventures encourage students to find and process information by adding an interesting spin to the research process. For example, they could be placed in the role of detective to solve a specific “case,” collecting clues about a curriculum topic by investigating specified sources and web pages.
• Podcasting : Playing relevant podcasts — or assisting students in creating their own — can be a great way to supplement lessons, engage auditory learners and even empower students to develop new creative skills.

Educational technology strategist David Andrade reports in EdTechMagazine.com ( “What Is on the Horizon for Education Technology?” ) that current tools and trends include online learning and makerspaces, “with robotics and virtual reality expected to be widely adopted in the near future.” Peeking a little further into the future, Andrade says studies indicate that “artificial intelligence and wearable technology will be considered mainstream within four to five years.”

In practice, future innovation will come from the hearts and minds of the teachers who develop the knowledge and skills needed to discover the most engaging, effective ways to use educational technology strategies in classrooms, and virtual classrooms, far and wide.

Another essential definition of educational technology focuses on the theory and practice of utilizing new technology to develop and implement innovative educational approaches to learning and student achievement.

Behind all the high-tech tools, the digital bells and whistles, are the teachers who possess the skill — and the inspiration — to use these new technologies to expand the educational universe of their students.

According to a report by the International Society for Technology in Education ( “11 Hot EdTech Trends to Watch” ), “the most compelling topics among educators who embrace technology for learning and teaching are not about the tech at all, but about the students.”

Benefits for students include expanded opportunities for personalized learning , more collaborative classrooms and new strategies such as so-called “flipped learning,” in which students are introduced to the subject material outside the classroom (often online), with classroom time then being used to deepen understanding through discussion and problem-solving activities with peers.

For teachers who aspire to make an impact in this discipline, earning a master’s in educational technology is obviously about learning new tools, strategies and practices, but it’s also about understanding the supporting structures that must be in place to ensure the most successful outcomes. These include:

• Policy and legal issues
• Ethical issues (student privacy, etc.)
• Funding, grants and budgets
• Real-world applications (the world of work, partnership opportunities, etc.)
• Networking basics, hardware, learning management software
• Equity (community/school access and assets, student access)
• Ability to complete a school or district needs assessment/site tech survey analysis

Therefore, for educators who are inspired by the immense potential of educational technology, the value of a master’s degree cannot be overstated.

Careers in Educational Technology

“We need technology in every classroom and in every student and teacher’s hand,” says education technology pioneer David Warlick, “because it is the pen and paper of our time, and it is the lens through which we experience much of our world.”

In recent years, rising interest in educational technology has led to the emergence of new advanced degree programs that are designed to prepare educators to shift into an innovator’s mindset and become transformative technology leaders in their classroom, school or district.

The best programs are structured to impart a comprehensive understanding of the tools used in educational technology, the theories and practices, and critically important related issues (budgeting, legal/ethical considerations, real-world partnership opportunities, educational equity, etc.) that are essential for such technology-enhanced programs to deliver on their potential to inspire student learning, achievement and creativity.

For example, the University of San Diego, well-known for its innovative, online Master of Education program, is launching a new specialization. The program is designed to prepare teachers to become effective K-12 technology leaders and coaches, virtual educators and instructional innovators who embrace technology-influenced teaching practices to empower student learning.

The program’s fully online format — in which students learn from expert instructors who possess deep experience in the field, while also interacting with fellow teachers from across the country — enables busy education professionals to complete their master’s degree in 20 months while working full time.

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7 Innovative Educational Technology Examples to Use in the Classroom

Technology has both benefits and drawbacks. On one hand, I enjoy the old-school pencil and paper, face-to-face communication, and less screen-related interaction. On the other hand, there are plenty of forms of technology I enjoy, rely upon, and find extremely convenient.

Rather than embrace every new technology trend in education, as a teacher and parent, I approach things more cautiously. Will it deprive teachers of any personal one-on-one time with their students? Will it enhance what teachers are already doing? And will it provide students with a better grasp of the subject?

With this evaluative approach in mind, here are seven innovative educational technology examples that are making their way into the classroom setting.

Examples of technologies that improve student learning

1. digital readers and tablets.

Increasingly, schools are looking to replace the bulkier hard-copy textbooks with digital ones that are accessible via a tablet.

• They eliminate the need for students to carry around a heavy backpack full of books.
• They provide a centralized, accessible place for all reading materials.
• Regular updates of digital content eliminate the cost of purchasing new textbook editions every few years.
• Apps added to tablets can meet the educational needs of students and provide more personalized learning opportunities.
• To fully implement, schools would need to provide a tablet to every student and have a system in place for dealing with lost, damaged, or stolen assets. 
• It eliminates the option for students to dramatically chuck their math book across the room when they get frustrated with it. 

2. 3D printing

3D printing has already seen an impressive application in the world at large. These printers can create anything from car parts to artificial organs. In the classroom setting, 3D printing can create hands-on models that students can investigate and interact with. For example, students could learn about the geography by studying a 3D map of an area. 

• It engages students and gets them curious.
• It reduces the time teachers need to spend on creating their own models (e.g., for a science class).
• 3D printers can be costly.
• One might argue that 3D printing technology means students won’t get to create their own physical models, but there’s nothing suggesting that the two can’t coexist.

3. Virtual reality

Another example of educational technology is virtual reality. Technology for virtual reality, augmented reality, and mixed reality is rapidly developing. One of the primary uses for this technology in the classroom is to take students on virtual field trips to places otherwise inaccessible. For example, a student could take a virtual field trip to ancient Egypt or to the bottom of the ocean. 

• It provides engaging, real-life experiences that would otherwise be inaccessible.
• Appeals to learners who like to see and experience things instead of merely reading about them.
• Students using virtual reality may develop a lack of spatial awareness in the real world. In other words, they could bump into something in the real world while immersed in the virtual one.
• Motion sickness can develop in some students due to their eyes sensing movement while their body does not.

4. Gamification

It’s no surprise that students learn better when they’re having fun. Gamification in education ties together the fun part of play with the content and concepts that students must learn.

• It increases student engagement.
• It creates enthusiasm for the lesson.
• It provides immediate feedback.
• It’s important to make sure the game is effective at teaching a given concept. 
• It takes time and training to learn how to effectively implement gamification in the classroom . 

5. Cloud technology

Cloud technology is another computing innovation for schools that is becoming more widely implemented. The cloud hosts apps and services on the internet instead of being on a user’s computer. It enables information to be stored, shared, and accessed on any device that’s connected to the internet. In education, the cloud is used to store and share digital textbooks, lesson plans, videos, and assignments. It’s also used to give students the opportunity to chat live with their instructors and other classmates. On a related note, cloud technology enables ‘flipped classrooms’ where students can watch a lecture before class and spend the class time engaged in discussion, group work, and analytical activities.

• It reduces the chance of homework getting lost between school and home.
• It reduces the need for students to carry heavy textbooks.
• It enables students to easily access information from any device connected to the internet.
• It enables quick and easy access to the teacher through live chat options.
• To fully adopt the cloud, schools would need to ensure that every student has adequate access to the internet.
• Although pretty much every network on the cloud has a security system in place to protect its information, hacking can be a concern.

6. Artificial intelligence

AI is making its way into the educational sphere by means of automating grading and feedback and providing personalized learning opportunities. For more information about the use of AI in the classroom, check out  this artcle .

• It can save the teacher time by doing the grading and giving feedback on their behalf.
• It provides greater insights into a student’s learning patterns.
• Teachers can learn a lot about a student’s learning patterns by doing the grading themselves.
• There’s a personal element of care when a teacher gives personalized feedback (rather than letting a machine generate one).

7. Mobile technology

Rather than banning cell phones and other mobile devices from use during class, some schools are incorporating this technology into the learning process through educational apps.

• The wide variety of available apps offers the opportunity for students to engage in their own learning process.
• Educational apps provide the opportunity to personalize learning to each student.
• Not every student possesses a mobile device, and not every parent is comfortable with their child having one.
• To really utilize this technology, schools would need to make sure that every parent is onboard and that every student has access to some sort of mobile device.

Instructional Technology Is a Tool to Enhance Personalized Learning

Technological advancements are truly impressive. We should accept that this is the world our students are growing up in and provide opportunities to expose them to these wonderful developments. However, each new type of instructional technology should be carefully evaluated and used as a tool to enhance the personal element in the teaching process, not to completely replace traditional learning methods.

This article was adapted from a blog post initially developed by the education technology company Classcraft, which was acquired by HMH in 2023. The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of HMH.

Find more  lesson plans and classroom resources on Shaped.

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26 Edtech Examples You Should Know

Tech breakthroughs, from a remote-learning robot for sick kids to pens that digitize handwriting, have transformed 21st-century education.

Sam was skeptical of what his new online friends told him. Was Islam really a violent religion? Were "feminazis" really eroding the family?

A sensitive middle-schooler and the   protagonist of a recent Washingtonian story , he found himself caught up in a slurry of bigoted and misogynistic views that litter the online forums Reddit and 4chan. 

Googling those views to learn more about them only made things worse by overwhelming him with information that confirmed the extremist rhetoric rather than correcting or contextualizing it. 

Unbeknownst to Sam, Google's algorithm prioritizes user engagement and retention, which means it often acts more as echo chamber than fact checker. The same goes for other search engines. 

Of course, the internet can be a great learning resource if you know where to look — and if you're aware that just because something seems educational or factual doesn't mean it actually is. 

That's where bona fide educational technology , which relies heavily on the internet, has a distinct advantage: It's created specifically to educate. Often, it's invented by former teachers who want to help young kids with developing brains (like Sam) think more critically.

Currently valued at around $8 billion (in the U.S.), the edtech industry has in recent years benefitted from a major influx of investment capital — a reported $1.45 billion in 2018 alone. We’ve gathered some examples of innovative edtech applications that help teachers and students alike. 

Edtech Companies to Know

Edtech companies.

InStride provides workforce education solutions. It collaborates with businesses on offering learning opportunities that can help them improve employee engagement, bolster their diversity and inclusion efforts and attract quality job candidates. InStride has thousands of adult learners participating in its educational programs, which include technical certifications, associate degree tracks and courses for learning English.

360Learning

Companies turn to 360Learning to establish employee training and upskilling programs with the help of artificial intelligence. For example, the company’s AI-powered skills pulse tool assesses employees’ skills and maintains accurate data that helps businesses identify and address gaps. 360Learning’s technology serves more than 2,300 businesses.

Teachable is a course content marketplace site where course creators can design, market and sell their digital classes and educational content. It also functions as a learning management system for instructors, who can use the Teachable interface as a storefront for their classes, where they can include materials like videos, quizzes and lecture notes. 

BrainPOP makes edtech software that offers “concept mapping” tools for K-12 students. By breaking complex or abstract concepts into concrete, real-world elements, it gives kids the opportunity to fully grasp the critical fundamentals of, for example, three-dimensional science, as a means of augmenting the work they do in the classroom with their teachers. BrainPOP is widely used by school districts as well as individual families. 

Mainstay makes a student engagement platform that is designed to support academic success and retention through digital communication. Using conversational AI and features like homework reminders through a chatbot, the software is research-proven to improve class performance and was awarded the EdTech Digest award for “Best Artificial Intelligence Solution.” The software is also built with a protocol for escalating communications to a human support resource like a teacher or admissions counselor when appropriate.

Peaksware is a software company that operates a portfolio of brands and tools for optimizing individual performance. For example, its MakeMusic brand is an edtech product for music education, which provides a tech-based program for teaching, learning and composing music based on the Deliberate Practice training model. This model asks learners and educators to set targeted goals, practice toward them and receive immediate feedback, thus shaping their pedagogical experience. 

TPT (formerly Teachers Pay Teachers)

When TPT started in 2006, it was a word-of-mouth marketplace where teachers could share and sell the resources they’d created. Today the platform offers custom digital tools and more than 5 million educational resources. With a recommendation system driven by algorithmic technology, the platform hosts a community of more than 7 million educators.

Multiverse helps people start and upskill their tech careers. The company’s apprenticeship matching program has trained over 16,000 people since its founding in 2016, teaching in-demand tech and data skills to keep the global workforce up to speed with how technology and AI are changing the way the world works.

Course Hero

Course Hero offers software tools to complement what students receive from their textbooks and instructors in a variety of challenging subjects. By offering materials and resources like lecture notes, study guides and practice exams along with tutoring from subject matter experts and AI-powered homework assistance, the Course Hero platform is designed to support student success.

DreamBox Learning (A Discovery Education Company)

Dreambox Learning’s K-8 math curriculum relies on adaptive technology with game-like interfaces that responds to students’ choices in real time by providing corrective drills in response to mistakes and moving on to new concepts when students display mastery of a particular topic. By making assessment an integral part of the learning process, the company aims to personalize the educational experience and reduce the need for testing.

Nonfiction readings on the Newsela digital platform are fluid, meaning they're readable at each student's individual reading level. Learners who are just learning English can translate complex stories into simple terms. More fluent speakers can explore the full technical vocabulary of a Scientific American deep-dive or an Al Jazeera feature — two of the many reputable sources from which Newsela’s massive library of nonfiction texts are drawn. Spanning topics from American history to space exploration, the readings often touch on social justice issues. More generally, they aim to strike a chord with teenagers and help ignite a lifelong love of reading.

Teachers can often sense plagiarism, but TurnItIn confirms gut feelings with hard data. The company’s popular digital plagiarism checker lets teachers compare student work with previous writings contained in a massive multi-lingual database of student papers, published academic work and years' worth of web content. Since its founding in 1998, TurnItIn’s search algorithm has scanned more than 70 billion web pages, many of which have since been archived.) 

Edmodo is a versatile digital portal through which teachers can perform every aspect of their job, including taking attendance, reading written assignments and auto-grading quizzes. In industry terms, Edmodo’s platform is what's known as a “learning management system,” which means it's intended to replace actual file cabinets stuffed with classroom paperwork. In addition, its customizable and teacher-developed interface has a networking component that lets students, parents and school employees connect and communicate securely.

Labster makes the lab experience accessible to more STEM students with interactive lab simulations where equipment cost is no object and students can experiment with microscopes, pH meters and titration equipment to their hearts’ content. To prepare homogenized milk , for example, students use the cursor to pick up objects and adjust their microscope settings. Labster’s library has almost 100 lab simulations that cover a range of scientific subjects, including chemistry, physics and biology. In partnership with Google, Labster also offers an array of more immersive virtual reality biology lab simulations. 

No Isolation

When chronically ill kids miss long stretches of school, they also miss out on the social interaction that schooling provides. No Isolation, a Norwegian startup, wants to change that. Its bright-white “telepresence robot,” shaped like a miniature head and shoulders, acts as a stand-in for sick kids by seeing, hearing, and even speaking on their behalf. Said 17-year-old  AV1 user  named Jade, who often has to stay home for health reasons, “It feels like I’ve been released from prison." 

Remind solves a perennial problem of education: parent-teacher communication. Things like permission slips constantly get lost in the murky depths of kids’ backpacks, but Remind shifts key paperwork and deadlines to the digital realm where they’re harder to lose or overlook. The app allows teachers and school administrators to contact parents and kids on via phone using the equivalent of text messaging. And it works on all phones, not just smartphones. Unlike texting, however, it masks everyone’s phone number and has built-in translation tools.

Piazza—Italian for “public square”—is a live Q&A platform where stumped students collaborate to overcome problems they're having with STEM field problem sets. Some might call it a discussion board, but critics have noted that discussion boards often foster stilted, mandatory conversation. Piazza does the opposite. And its notifications encourage quick replies. According to the New York Times , the average question on Piazza is answered within 14 minutes . And though it’s primarily used for student collaboration, the platform lets teachers endorse correct student responses.

Livescribe Inc.

Livescribe specializes in Smartpens , high-tech styluses that digitize handwriting into PDFs, transform handwritten documents scrawled on special "dot paper" (printable at home) into editable text files and even record audio. The pens link to a mobile and desktop app through which audio and written notes are blended into one multimedia document. Intended for lecture classes and interview situations, Livescribe can also benefit students with learning disabilities.

Swivl’s signature video tool is less a camera and more an “intelligent assistant” — in effect, a second set of eyes in the classroom. The robot's smart camera, flanked by multiple microphones, is more autonomous than typical video cameras and has a built-in sense of when and how to swivel. In addition to observing students to get a sense of comprehension levels and classroom dynamics, Swivl video can help educators hone their teaching style.

Examity's online proctoring services verify that students who take exams remotely do so honestly. The company offers a trio of tools to ensure test-taking integrity: digital identification, auto-proctoring and live proctoring. The digital identification process confirms identities through fingerprints and voice biometrics, among other methods. During auto-proctored exams, machine learning algorithms monitor students through the webcams and microphones on their personal computers and flags suspicious behavior. Security is even tighter in live-proctored exams during which test-takers are monitored by college-educated proctors who've completed two months of training on the workings of Examity's interface. Types of tests for which the company's platform can be used include standardized testing, college finals and certification exams. And there's 24/7 tech support via phone or online chat. 

Edtech isn't just for young people. In Thinkful's virtual classrooms, instructors train adults for new careers in full-stack programming and data analytics. Alumni of Thinkful's courses have landed jobs at tech giants like Google and Amazon, and the team has such faith in their program that students are promised  a tuition refund if they can't find a job within six months of graduation. Central to Thinkful's approach is one-on-one mentorship. Each student receives focused, face-to-face attention via video chat from a professional in the field they're studying.  When students leave Thinkful's bootcamp for the job market, the company also offers them six months of career services, including interview training.

Blueprint Test Prep

Blueprint Test Prep is a test-prep provider for pre-law and healthcare students. Blueprint begins by creating a personalized study schedule tailored to each learner’s life and goals using an advanced algorithm. Later, Blueprint analyzes students’ mistakes and study patterns to pinpoint specific areas of improvement, helping them to maximize their performance. 

Pluralsight

Pluralsight is an online training company that offers skills consulting and video courses for businesses and teams. Employees engage in a combination of remote and on-site work from its offices in the United States, India and Ireland. 

Businesses use Skillsoft ’s technology to provide their employees with opportunities to develop new skills and strengthen the ones they already have. For example, Skillsoft offers leadership training solutions that cover areas ranging from ethics to generative AI so businesses can equip up-and-coming leaders with tools and skills that support their success.

ReUp Education

ReUp Education says its mission relies on “empowering all adults to thrive in higher education.” The company partners with schools and systems to expand educational access for adult learners, providing them with personalized support through one-on-one interactions and other resources meant to help them get to graduation day. 

Academia.edu

Through Academia , researchers can share their work and discover other research papers that align with their interests. The online platform has approximately 269 million members representing academic disciplines like history, economics, chemistry, computer science, literature and psychology.

Mia Goulart, Margo Steines and Dana Cassell contributed reporting for this story.

Recent Edtech Articles

13 Technologies Used in Education with Examples

What is Educational Technology?

What are the benefits of educational technology, educational technology examples, interactive whiteboards, learning management systems (lms), educational apps and mobile learning, adaptive learning software, virtual reality (vr) and augmented reality (ar).

Cloud Technology

Online collaboration tools, multimedia lessons, assistive technology, gamification, 3d printing, data analytics and learning analytics.

What are educational technology examples?

What are the types of educational technology, what is an educational technology tool, what are the five components of educational technology.

• Instructional design for structured learning experiences
• Digital resources like apps and software
• Hardware tools such as interactive boards
• Learning management systems for course organization
• Assessment tools for tracking progress

What technologies improve student learning?

• Adaptive learning platforms for personalized instruction
• Interactive whiteboards for engagement
• Educational apps for mobile learning
• Virtual reality for immersive experiences
• Proctoring tools like ProctorEdu for secure assessments
• Auto proctoring
• Live proctoring
• AI Proctoring
• Exam Monitoring Software
• For Higher education
• Corporate Certification
• Professional Certification
• Olympiad Exams
• Language Certification
• Test Platforms
• Online Proctoring Software for Pre-Employment Testing
• HR-training
• Case studies
• YouTestMe Partner
• Our Partners
• Online Proctoring and LMS integration
• Documentation
• For test-takers
• Computer check
• Terms of service
• Privacy policy
• Accessibility statement
• Regulations for technical support
• Trust portal
• Uptime status

Examples of Technologies that Improve Student Learning

Technologies and tools cater to diverse learning styles--and empower students to explore, create, and collaborate in unprecedented ways.

Key points:

• Technology’s many uses are especially valuable in student learning
• As technology evolves, educators find new ways to target learning needs
• Stay up-to-date on all things concerning  learning in the digital age

As education becomes more an experience of learning in the digital age , technologies play a pivotal role in reshaping the learning experiences of K-12 students. From interactive applications to collaborative online platforms, a diverse array of technologies is contributing to more engaging, personalized, and efficient learning environments. These tools not only cater to diverse learning styles but also empower students to explore, create, and collaborate in unprecedented ways.

As the education sector continues to embrace technological advancements, educators are watching the transformative impact of various technologies, particularly how they facilitate enhanced comprehension, critical thinking, and prepare students for success in the ever-evolving digital era.

What are some good examples of using technology to enhance learning?

Several compelling examples of technologies that improve student learning illustrate how technology enhances K-12 classrooms, transforming traditional education into dynamic and engaging experiences:

• Coding Platforms and Robotics Kits: Introduce coding programs and robotics kits like Scratch or LEGO Mindstorms to enhance problem-solving skills, creativity, and computational thinking. Students can engage in hands-on projects and develop a deeper understanding of programming concepts.
• Virtual Field Trips: Utilize virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) applications to take students on virtual field trips, allowing them to explore historical landmarks, ecosystems, or outer space from the confines of the classroom, enhancing experiential learning.
• Digital Storytelling Tools: Platforms like StoryJumper or Book Creator enable students to create and share digital stories, enhancing literacy skills, creativity, and digital communication abilities.
• Online Science Simulations: Leverage online science simulations, such as those provided by PhET Interactive Simulations, to allow students to conduct virtual experiments and explore complex scientific concepts in a safe and interactive manner.
• Podcasting and Audio Tools: Engage students in creating podcasts or audio projects using tools like Anchor or Audacity, promoting communication skills, creativity, and allowing them to present information in innovative ways.
• Augmented Reality (AR) for Art and Design: Use AR applications to overlay digital elements on students’ physical artwork or designs, allowing for interactive presentations and enhancing creativity in art and design classes.
• Digital Citizenship Platforms: Implement platforms like Common Sense Education to teach students about digital citizenship, online safety, and responsible technology use, preparing them for a connected and digital world.
• Online Collaborative Writing Tools: Platforms like Google Docs or Microsoft Word Online enable collaborative writing projects, fostering teamwork, peer editing, and real-time collaboration among students.
• Geography and Map Exploration Tools: Use online tools like Google Earth to explore geography, historical maps, and global landmarks, making geography lessons more interactive and engaging.
• Digital Portfolios: Encourage students to create digital portfolios using tools like Seesaw or Google Sites, allowing them to showcase their work, reflect on their learning journey, and develop digital presentation skills.

How does technology help students learn?

Technology profoundly impacts student learning by providing versatile tools that cater to diverse learning styles, fostering engagement, collaboration, and personalized education. One key benefit is accessibility to a wealth of information, allowing students to conduct research and explore subjects beyond traditional resources. Educational apps and interactive software create dynamic lessons, accommodating various learning preferences and enhancing comprehension.

Adaptive learning platforms use algorithms to tailor instruction to individual students, addressing their specific needs and promoting a personalized learning experience. Virtual and augmented reality applications transport students to immersive environments, making abstract concepts tangible and enhancing experiential learning.

Collaborative online platforms facilitate communication and teamwork, enabling students to collaborate on projects, share ideas, and engage in interactive discussions. Coding programs and robotics kits introduce hands-on learning, promoting critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for the future.

Furthermore, technology cultivates digital literacy, equipping students with skills needed in the digital age. Online assessments provide instant feedback, allowing for timely adjustments and supporting continuous improvement. Distance learning tools ensure educational continuity, enabling students to access resources remotely.

Technology revolutionizes education by offering interactive, adaptive, and collaborative learning experiences. It empowers students to take charge of their learning journey, preparing them for a future where digital literacy and technological proficiency are paramount. As technology continues to evolve, its role in education and the importance of technology in the classroom becomes increasingly pivotal in shaping well-rounded and future-ready learners.

How teachers use technology in the classroom

The use of technology in the classroom to enhance teaching and learning is wide-ranging. Teachers leverage technology in K-12 classrooms to enhance teaching methodologies, engage students, and create dynamic learning environments. Interactive tools enable multimedia-rich presentations, fostering active participation. Educational apps cater to diverse learning styles, providing interactive lessons and assessments. Virtual reality applications offer immersive experiences, making abstract concepts tangible.

Teachers also use technology for formative assessment through clickers or online quizzes, enabling real-time feedback. Online collaboration tools facilitate group projects and communication. Coding platforms introduce programming concepts, fostering critical thinking. Adaptive learning software tailors instruction to individual student needs, ensuring personalized learning experiences. Additionally, teachers integrate digital resources to cater to diverse learning styles and prepare students for a technology-driven future.

The judicious use of technology empowers educators to create student-centered, interactive, and efficient classrooms that cater to the evolving needs of 21st-century learners.

What are the 10 ways to use technology in the classroom?

There are myriad ways to use technology tools in the K-12 classroom—and we could explore way more than 10 reasons why technology is good for education. But for now, let’s stick to these inspiring examples:

• Digital Simulations: Incorporate digital simulations to illustrate complex concepts, allowing students to interact with and visualize abstract ideas in subjects such as science, mathematics, or economics.
• Educational Games: Integrate educational games or gamified learning platforms to make lessons more engaging and foster a love for learning through interactive and competitive elements.
• Augmented Reality (AR) Apps: Use AR applications to overlay digital information onto the physical world, offering interactive experiences that bring subjects like history, geography, or anatomy to life.
• Coding and Robotics Kits: Introduce coding programs and robotics kits, like LEGO Mindstorms, to promote hands-on learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Digital Portfolios: Encourage students to create digital portfolios using tools like Seesaw or Google Sites, showcasing their work, reflections, and progress throughout the academic year.
• Podcasting: Engage students in creating podcasts, allowing them to develop communication skills, share knowledge, and express creativity through audio storytelling.
• Online Collaboration Platforms: Utilize online collaboration tools, such as Padlet or Flipgrid, for virtual brainstorming, collaborative projects, and peer-to-peer interaction.
• Augmented Writing Tools: Integrate tools like Grammarly or ProWritingAid to enhance students’ writing skills by providing real-time feedback on grammar, style, and clarity.
• Video Creation and Editing: Incorporate video creation and editing tools like iMovie or Adobe Spark, enabling students to express ideas creatively and develop digital media literacy.
• Virtual Labs: Implement virtual laboratories or online simulations for science experiments, allowing students to conduct experiments safely and explore scientific concepts in a virtual environment.

What is an educational technology tool?

An educational technology tool is a digital resource, device, software, or platform designed to enhance the teaching and learning experience within an educational context. These tools are specifically crafted to support educators in delivering content, engaging students, and facilitating the learning process. Educational technology tools encompass a wide range of applications, from interactive whiteboards, tablets, and computers to specialized educational software, learning management systems, and online collaboration platforms.

These tools aim to cater to diverse learning styles, promote interactivity, and adapt to the evolving needs of the educational landscape. Examples of educational technology tools may include adaptive learning programs that personalize instruction based on individual student progress, virtual reality applications that create immersive learning experiences, or coding platforms that foster computational thinking. Additionally, educational technology tools often facilitate communication between teachers, students, and parents, streamlining administrative tasks and providing valuable insights into student performance.

Educational technology tools play a crucial role in modernizing and enriching the educational process, helping to create dynamic, student-centered, and technologically empowered learning environments.

What are 5 benefits of technology?

There are numerous benefits of technology in the classroom—here are 5 to get us started:

• Enhanced Learning Opportunities: Technology provides access to a wealth of information, enabling learners to explore subjects beyond traditional resources. Educational apps, online courses, and digital platforms offer diverse learning materials, fostering a broader and more dynamic educational experience.
• Increased Engagement: Interactive and multimedia elements in educational technology capture attention and engage learners more effectively. Gamified learning platforms, virtual simulations, and interactive lessons make the learning process enjoyable, promoting intrinsic motivation and sustained interest in the subject matter.
• Personalized Learning: Technology allows for adaptive learning platforms that tailor instruction to individual student needs. This personalized approach accommodates different learning paces and styles, ensuring that each student receives a customized and effective learning experience.
• Efficient Communication and Collaboration: Technology facilitates seamless communication and collaboration among students, teachers, and parents. Platforms like email, messaging apps, and online collaboration tools enhance communication, enabling real-time interaction and fostering a sense of community in educational settings.
• Preparation for the Digital Age: Embracing technology in education equips students with essential digital literacy skills and prepares them for the challenges of the modern workforce. Exposure to various digital tools and platforms enhances their ability to navigate and contribute meaningfully in an increasingly technology-driven world.

What technology improves student learning?

Several technologies, coupled with best practices in teaching, significantly enhance student learning by fostering engagement, personalization, and critical thinking. Educational apps offer interactive content and adaptive learning experiences, catering to diverse learning styles and allowing students to progress at their own pace. Learning management systems (LMS) streamline administrative tasks, providing centralized platforms for assignment distribution, communication, and resource organization.

Virtual and augmented reality applications transport students to immersive environments, making abstract concepts tangible and enhancing experiential learning. Online collaborative tools, such as Google Workspace, facilitate real-time teamwork and communication, fostering essential skills for the digital age.

Furthermore, technology promotes personalized learning through adaptive learning platforms that tailor instruction based on individual student progress, addressing specific strengths and weaknesses. Digital simulations and interactive software offer hands-on exploration of complex subjects like science and mathematics, promoting a deeper understanding.

Overall, technology plays a transformative role in student learning by providing versatile tools that encourage active participation, cater to diverse learning needs, and prepare students for the challenges of a rapidly evolving, technology-driven world. The integration of these technologies creates a more dynamic, engaging, and student-centered educational experience, equipping learners with essential skills for success in the 21st century.

What are the positive effects of technology in the classroom?

The positive effects of technology tools for teaching and learning are manifold, enhancing the learning experience for both educators and students. One significant impact is the promotion of active engagement. Interactive whiteboards, educational apps, and online resources captivate students’ attention, making lessons more dynamic and fostering a participatory learning environment.

Technology facilitates personalized learning experiences. Adaptive learning platforms tailor instruction to individual student needs, accommodating diverse learning styles and paces. This individualization promotes a deeper understanding of subjects and helps address specific learning challenges.

Collaborative tools and online platforms enhance communication and teamwork among students. Virtual group projects, discussions, and shared documents create a sense of community, promoting collaborative skills essential in today’s interconnected world.

Technology also prepares students for the digital age, equipping them with essential skills such as digital literacy, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Overall, the positive effects of technology in the classroom contribute to a more dynamic, inclusive, and future-ready educational environment.

Technologies that enhance student learning have become integral in fostering dynamic, personalized, and engaging educational experiences. From interactive whiteboards to adaptive learning platforms, these tools cater to diverse learning styles, promote active participation, and prepare students for the challenges of a technology-driven world.

The positive effects extend beyond the classroom, nurturing essential skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, and digital literacy. As technology continues to evolve, its role in education remains pivotal, shaping a future-ready generation equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an increasingly complex and interconnected global landscape.

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The Various Types of Educational Technology for Modern Learning

In today’s digital age, educational technology has revolutionized the way we learn and teach. From interactive online platforms to advanced tools and applications, technology has become an integral part of the educational landscape. In this article, we will delve into the different types of educational technology that are reshaping the learning experience for students and educators alike. Whether you’re a teacher, student, or someone interested in the future of education, understanding these innovative tools can help you make the most of the digital learning environment.

Table of Contents

1. learning management systems (lms), 2. virtual reality (vr) and augmented reality (ar), 3. gamification, 4. adaptive learning, 5. mobile learning, 6. collaborative tools.

What are The Examples of Technology in Education?

Learning Management Systems , commonly referred to as LMS, are web-based platforms designed to facilitate and manage educational courses and materials.

LMSs provide a centralized hub where educators can create, organize, and deliver content, such as lecture notes, quizzes, assignments, and discussion boards.

Students can access these resources anytime, anywhere, fostering a flexible and personalized learning experience.

Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality technologies have gained significant traction in the education sector.

VR immerses learners in a simulated environment, while AR overlays digital content onto the real world.

These technologies offer interactive and immersive experiences that enhance understanding and engagement.

For example, students can explore historical landmarks , dissect virtual organisms, or simulate scientific experiments, all from the comfort of their classrooms.

Gamification refers to the integration of game elements and mechanics into educational activities.

By introducing elements like points, levels, badges, and leaderboards, gamification enhances motivation and encourages active participation.

Educational games and simulations provide an enjoyable learning experience, promoting critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills.

Gamified learning platforms can be used across various subjects and grade levels, making education more engaging and interactive.

Adaptive Learning technology utilizes data-driven algorithms to personalize the learning experience for each student.

By analyzing individual learning patterns and performance, adaptive learning platforms provide tailored content and activities.

These platforms adapt to the student’s strengths, weaknesses, and preferred learning styles, ensuring optimal learning outcomes.

Adaptive learning tools help educators identify knowledge gaps and provide targeted interventions to enhance student understanding.

Mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets, have become ubiquitous in today’s society.

Leveraging the popularity of mobile technology, educational apps and mobile learning platforms offer flexibility and accessibility.

Students can access educational content on-the-go, allowing for self-paced learning and engaging in educational activities beyond the traditional classroom environment.

Mobile learning promotes convenience, interactivity, and encourages continuous learning.

Collaboration is a crucial aspect of the learning process.

Educational technology provides a range of collaborative tools that facilitate teamwork and communication among students and educators.

Virtual classrooms, discussion forums, video conferencing, and cloud-based document sharing platforms enable seamless collaboration regardless of geographical constraints.

These tools foster active engagement, knowledge sharing, and the development of essential social skills.

Pro Tip: While technology improves education, it’s also crucial in disaster recovery, like drones. Explore how drones aid in disaster recovery and tech infrastructure , making a significant difference in the lives of those affected by calamities worldwide.

Educational technology is reshaping the educational landscape, offering innovative tools and approaches to enhance teaching and learning experiences. The types of educational technology discussed in this article, including Learning Management Systems, Virtual Reality, Gamification, Adaptive Learning, Mobile Learning, and Collaborative Tools, represent a fraction of the vast array of possibilities. As technology continues to advance, educators and learners can leverage these tools to unlock new realms of knowledge, engagement, and educational success.

Remember, understanding the different types of educational technology is just the beginning. It is essential to assess the specific needs and goals of your educational environment to determine which tools and technologies align best with your objectives. Embracing educational technology empowers educators and learners to thrive in the digital era, unlocking the full potential of education.

About The Author

Founder of Computer How-To Guide. A fun loving person and tech enthusiast, he has been writing about computers and technology for over 10 years. He also enjoys sports, food and playing with his cat. Follow Peter on: X (Twitter) | LinkedIn