Technology has long played a key role in shaping the classroom into a more dynamic, accessible and engaging learning environment. Today, students are no longer passive learners but active participants. From a teacher’s point of view, these resources make it easy to create lesson plans, monitor performance, and broaden their skills.
Teachers are doing one of the most important jobs in the world. They’re shaping the minds of the future and developing the growth of young people, far and wide. As a result, teachers must keep developing their skills to remain the best they can be, particularly when helping students in low and middle-income countries.
Right now, there is a learning crisis. Seventy-percent of 10-year-olds in low and middle-income countries cannot understand a simple written text. The good news is that technology is making teachers’ jobs much easier and improving the way students learn. Our people at EqualEd work hard to connect learning communities across the globe, so technology is a core part of our organisation. But how exactly can technology support learning in low and middle-income countries? Read on to find out.
Technologies that support learning and teacher development
Technology in its many forms can make learning more interactive and enjoyable, and motivate students in the classroom. It’s beneficial for both students and teachers alike. At EqualEd, we use Google technology to connect volunteer teachers with students in low-resource and remote settings all over the world. We’re passionate about using technology for good.
There’s an array of tools that can help with independent learning and collaboration and stimulate creativity. Here are some examples of technologies that can support teachers in developing their skills:
- Virtual reality: VR can transform the learning experience by immersing students in a virtual environment. Teachers can create personalised learning experiences and workshops, providing students with a memorable experience. In short, VR brings innovation to the classroom.
- Digital learning tools: Teachers can enrich their lessons with digital education tools to help students understand their work better. Tools include apps, multimedia presentations, online courses and webinars, which allow school pupils and students to learn more efficiently.
- Audiobooks: Listening to audiobooks helps children build their literary skills and better engage with schoolwork. They can also be an entertaining way to help children develop their listening skills. Teachers can use audiobooks to explain complex topics, bringing more clarity to their students in an engaging way. Audiobooks are also an excellent tool for remote learners.
What are the benefits of using technology to enhance learning?
It’s hard to imagine our daily lives without technology. We have already seen the fast adoption of all kinds of tools and their benefits. However, in the education sector, technology has the power to better meet the needs of learners and help them grow. Through technology, teachers have more flexibility in how they deliver classes.
For example, teachers can design materials, such as videos, podcasts and interactive games. This flexibility is an added benefit for remote learners in underserved communities who may not have access to important resources. Better yet, the rise in diverse learning will support students with different learning styles and the needs of each individual.
The future of technology and learning
While the benefits of technology are clear, what does the future hold for learning? According to research by WeForum, 40% of all time spent on tasks could potentially be affected by large language models — and this applies to teaching as well. A large language model is a type of AI system that can understand and generate human language. There’s no cause for alarm just yet. Automating repetitive tasks would allow teachers to spend more time designing classes, interacting with students, and developing other skills.
Ultimately, digital technology can improve learner outcomes, improving engagement and performance. Through the use of tech tools, teachers can also foster strong relationships with their students and open up new lines of communication. Students will have access to a wide range of visual aids to support their learning, helping them to understand new concepts and retain information.
In the future, there’s likely to be more opportunities for teachers to apply their skills, and support learners remotely around the globe. Research has shown that the global EdTech market is expected to grow at a compound annual rate of 13.4% from 2024 to 2030. Therefore, embracing technology and learning to use new tools is vital for teachers who want to ensure the best outcomes for their students.
What you can do now
Equal Ed’s mission is to equalise access to quality education by harnessing new technology. As a team, we are connecting people across cultures to make education equal for all. With the right level of knowledge and help from our passionate volunteers, we can enhance learning and break down barriers in education. Whether you are a qualified teacher or want to begin your teaching journey with us, get involved and help us shape the future of learning.