As technology continues to exponentially change and define the world around us, planning for the future of education will be a unique challenge. Students all over the world are learning on their computers and tablets, and are able to access information and resources through technology unlike ever before. We are already witnessing the future of education now, and with such advancements and cutting-edge tech inclusions, the education sector will continue to evolve and change in the future. Here are seven trends that will shape the future of education:
Students will be able to access information and learn at different times in different places. eLearning tools will allow for remote and self-paced learning for students, who will be able to conveniently learn wherever and whenever they want. Additionally, students will learn theoretical and written concepts outside of the classroom at their own pace and will conduct practical or group activities face to face in an interactive manner.
Students will learn with study tools that adapt to their learning curves and capabilities. This means that students will spend time learning what they need, instead of following a common lesson plan. Above-average students will be challenged with more difficult tasks and questions, and students who experience issues with a subject will be able to practice it until they reach the required level. Students will have better learning experiences as they will not have a fear of falling behind or ahead, and this will reduce the number of students losing confidence in their academic abilities.
Students will need holistic education focusing on vocational skills, communication strategies, collaboration, and leadership to be better prepared for future careers. As the structure of the global workforce changes, students will need to be workplace-ready and have strong interpersonal skills to thrive in a changing world.
Students will have a bigger role in forming their curricula. To maintain and develop a curriculum that is up-to-date and useful in the real world, students will need to be involved along with education professionals. Seeking input from students on the content and format of their courses will become increasingly important when developing study programs, meaning that students will become more responsible and take ownership of what they are learning.
As computers and robots begin taking over routine tasks, people will be valued for their creativity and intuition that a computer cannot offer. They will be prized for their ability to innovate and collaborate in teams. Innovation is crucial for universities as they compete for funding and try to attract students, and for researchers as they seek to make scientific breakthroughs. To do so, researchers and scientists from different fields will need to collaborate and use their intuition along with the power of technology and artificial intelligence to spark new conversations and ideas that will fuel innovation.
Computational thinking involves the use of systematic problem solving based on technology and algorithms to solve problems. Course curricula focused on problem-solving, coding and STEM will help prepare students to address future challenges and develop a set of technical skills required to succeed in a world greatly influenced by technology.
As students become increasingly adept with technology, they will seek to learn in a new and creative manner that takes advantage of the latest technological developments. Thus, combining entertainment in the form of video games, videos, podcasts, or the latest in tech with education will be imperative in increasing student engagement and retention rates.