Education technology, commonly referred to as edtech, has come a long way over the years. From the days of chalkboards and textbooks, we have now entered an era where technology has become an integral part of the learning experience.
The introduction of screens has revolutionized the way students learn and interact with the curriculum. In this blog, we’ll discuss the evolution of educational technology and how screens have impacted the learning experience.
The early days of educational technology involved simple tools like the chalkboard, paper and pencil. Teachers would write on the chalkboard, and students would take notes on paper. This method of teaching was the norm for centuries, but technology soon began to change the game.
Projectors
The first screens to enter the classroom were projectors. These devices allowed teachers to display images and videos to enhance their lessons. However, these projectors were bulky and difficult to set up, which made them less popular than other options.
The introduction of interactive whiteboards changed the game. Interactive whiteboards are digital screens that allow teachers to display information and interact with it using a stylus or their finger.
Interactive Whiteboards
- A smart display board is a digital tool that functions as an interactive whiteboard and combines the functionality of a traditional blackboard with the technological advancements of the modern era.
- These boards are equipped with touch-sensitive screens, wireless connectivity, and advanced software that enable teachers to create interactive and engaging lessons.
- With a smart display board, teachers can project lesson plans, images, and videos onto the screen, annotate and highlight important points, and even record their lessons for future use. These boards also come with a range of features, including handwriting recognition, remote access, and the ability to share content with other devices.
- One of the significant advantages of using smart display boards in the classroom is their ability to cater to different learning styles.
- Visual learners, for example, can benefit greatly from the visual aids provided by the board, while kinesthetic learners can interact with the board’s touch-screen technology.
- Another advantage of smart display boards is that they promote collaboration and engagement among students.
- Teachers can use these boards to create group activities, quizzes, and games, encouraging active participation and making learning fun and interactive.
Tablets and Laptops
As technology continued to advance, tablets and laptops became more prevalent in classrooms. These devices have given students access to an almost limitless amount of information and resources, which has revolutionized the learning experience. With a tablet or laptop, students can take notes, access online resources, and communicate with their peers and teachers.
Online Learning
Another recent development in educational technology is online learning. Online learning has become increasingly popular in recent years, and screens play a crucial role in this form of education. With online learning, students can access their courses and learning materials from anywhere, as long as they have an internet connection.
Virtual Reality
Virtual reality and augmented reality are also becoming increasingly popular in classrooms. These technologies provide a more immersive learning experience, allowing students to interact with digital objects and environments in a way that was once impossible.
Conclusion
In conclusion, screens have played a crucial role in the evolution of educational technology. From projectors to interactive whiteboards to tablets and laptops, screens have revolutionized the way students learn and interact with the curriculum. As technology continues to advance, we can expect even more exciting developments in educational technology.