The technological advancements of the 21st century have brought about improvements in all aspects of life. In general, life has become much easier for all. One such technology is EdTech (educational technology). It defines a combination of software and hardware that allows for the better delivery of education. In most cases, EdTech can work within every learning environment.
EdTech has several advantages that make it suitable for use in an educational setting. This article will identify how interactive EdTech tools can help drive student engagement.
EdTech Provides an Interactive Learning Environment
Most EdTech tools provide learners with an interactive learning environment that fosters the best assimilation of knowledge. Many of such tools allow teachers to put students in groups for learning. While in such formation, teachers can perform various tasks in real-time. In particular, instructors can drive engagements by using the best learning practices.
Using the appropriate EdTech tools, a teacher can develop lesson plans for their students. In addition, most EdTech tools allow an instructor to integrate several add-on applications. These applications may include:
- Slide viewer,
- Document processing app,
- Spreadsheet software,
- Remote file storage app.
While using an EdTech tool with any of the add-on applications, students are better able to respond to questions from teachers. Similarly, students are able to ask meaningful questions. Likewise, educators can interact with students effectively. Also, teachers often have access to editable templates, which work well with these add-on apps.
Helpful tools can be used by students and teachers alike, For instance, students have long been using the web to order academic essays for sale, check their writing for errors, or make their papers sound more put-together and concise – there truly is a solution for anything nowadays!
Create Meaningful Connections Between Teachers and Students
One of the essential aspects of working with students is managing the relationship between teachers and students. A healthy connection between these two parties fosters effective learning, while a bad one impedes it. With the help of EdTech tools, this special relationship can quickly blossom. Different EdTech tools are developed for different kinds of students. Therefore, the right tool needs to be used within each type of classroom.
Most EdTech tools allow teachers to assess the progress of each student. Such assessment can be made either physically or remotely. Similarly, most of these tools are designed to limit distraction while maximizing engagement. Highlighted below are some of the features that encourage engagement.
- An example of a feature within such tools that is critical to learning is screen sharing. With this feature, educators can share the screen of their devices with students. As a result, a class of students can see the same screen as they would when viewing a blackboard.
- Most EdTech tools come with a built-in chat feature. A chat feature is essential to communication between teachers and students. Additionally, it lets teachers reach out to students collectively and individually. Also, an educator can use it either in person or in a remote learning arrangement. With this feature, teachers can deliver personalized instructions to students. Conversely, students can privately communicate their concerns to teachers without feeling ashamed.
- Another feature of most EdTech tools is they give educators a view of how each student is progressing. Therefore, a teacher can quickly identify students that are struggling. They can also provide appropriate instructions to help out those that are behind in the class.
- Many EdTech tools include a feedback feature that encourages student engagement. Students that outperform their peers gain recognition within the class while receiving the opportunity to help their classmates. Virtual gifts can be used to engage learning and healthy competition.
Allows for Customizable Curriculum
With the help of EdTech tools, educators can effectively create a customizable curriculum. If students miss one or two classes, they can catch up with their peers seamlessly. When students are unable to come to school, EdTech tools can give them access to learning remotely. If some students are unable to participate together with everybody else, they can access the course material at a later time.
Additionally, EdTech tools cover students with special needs and learning disabilities. Students with problems like dyslexia can learn at their own pace. As a result, a student can always have access to learning content. In addition, they can watch interactive videos that help with learning. With the help of tech tools, parents or guardians can participate in the learning process, too. Doing this gives students the best learning experience, thereby, encouraging engagement.
Increases Exposure and Allows Inclusiveness
EdTech tools help expose students to new experiences. Teachers can bring in experts from different fields to provide students with a broader perspective on a subject. For example, when studying physics, students can have the opportunity to interact with a real physicist and learn all the new trends and technologies in the field of science first-hand. Also, they get an idea about the importance of what they are learning. In addition, students from all parts of the world can participate in a single learning process. Ultimately, learning new facts and putting things into perspective help foster engagement.
In Conclusion
EdTech tools have an essential role to play in driving student engagement. Technologies can provide an interactive learning environment that keeps students focused, help develop meaningful relationships between teachers and students, and allow for a custom curriculum fit for everyone. Finally, it exposes students to new and exciting experiences that they can have together.