All of us want the best for our children when it comes to their education. Not only will this help to ensure that they can enjoy a bright future, but children who develop a positive relationship with education are more likely to pursue professional careers. As we are now fully immersed within the digital age, it only stands to reason that the Internet is playing an important role. From the ability to access quality online English classes to using the latest smartphone applications to participate in virtual classrooms, the possibilities are truly astounding. Let us, therefore, take a look at how technology is transforming the educational sector as well as what parents can expect soon.
The Rising Presence of 5G Wireless
Fifth-generation (5G) wireless Internet represents the next leap forward regarding digital communications. While this concept is somewhat technical, the main takeaway point is that information can be delivered faster than ever before. Some experts estimate that speeds of up to 20 gigabytes per second are entirely realistic. This is important in terms of online learning, as communications will be much more streamlined when compared to the past.
5G communications will also open up the opportunity to participate in live virtual classes. Similar to webinars, numerous students can attend. This dramatically simplifies the overall learning process and allows teachers to leverage their talents to the fullest.
While there is no doubt that 5G is quite impressive, we are only scratching the surface when it comes to what digital technology has to offer. This is also why seemingly far-off concepts such as the use of artificial intelligence are likewise set to create an impact.
Artificial Intelligence and Education
Many of us are unaware that we interact with artificial intelligence (AI) daily. For example, smartphone applications will automatically determine our location to provide us with the most accurate weather conditions. Search engines such as Google employ a technique known as predictive text to anticipate the answers to a specific query. These applications can also serve a purpose when referring to the education of our children.
One well-known benefit involves learning games that students will play. These interfaces have now become much more entertaining and immersive thanks to the presence of artificial intelligence. AI is also being used to analyze large sets of data (often known as “big data”). This information can be leveraged to better understand how specific groups of children are progressing. Big data can likewise be employed to appreciate the impact of educational courses upon certain demographic regions (such as students located within urban settings as opposed to those living in more rural areas).
While the use of artificial intelligence will often take place “behind the scenes”, its impacts are still very real.
The Hybrid Approach
All of the advancements mentioned above have given rise to what is now being called the “hybrid approach” to learning. In other words, tried-and-tested educational techniques are being used in synergy with the latest technological innovations. The theory here is that children will be exposed to the best of both worlds. Although it will naturally take a bit of time to appreciate the results of this strategy, it already seems to be offering countless benefits to children and teenagers.
Will Technology Ever Replace Traditional Classrooms?
This question has already been asked by countless educators. While it is impossible to predict the future, it seems as if traditional classrooms will always enjoy a presence. Technology and the Internet are instead meant to be used to supplement these forms of education. After all, the hands-on nature of classroom discussions cannot be replicated even when using the most advanced software programs. Classrooms provide a sense of physicality that is simply not possible when dealing with the digital domain.
Parents should therefore make it a point to leverage the options at their disposal. As technology continues to influence the educational sector, it is only fair to assume that children will need to adapt to these systems. The good news is that younger generations are already quite familiar with the digital domain, so this should not present an issue.
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