In technology, the word disruptive is used for a technology or innovation that radically changes the way a sector works by introducing efficiency, affordability and convenience. The technological revolution in the business sector is represented by the widespread use of smart phones or web conferencing in American offices. However, the impact of disruptive technologies on the education sector is much larger. A wave of smart classes and e-learning has transformed the way education is delivered and pursued today.
The presence of technology in classrooms makes the student an active learner rather than a passive one. The education system is becoming more student-centric. The student can choose, manipulate and generate what they want to learn and how. The student himself creates the learning environment and the way in which he receives instruction. eLearning has made the education system more convenient and flexible. The student can learn via a platform of their choice. The teacher’s role also changes as he is no longer the sole source of knowledge. He transforms into a mentor and is responsible for providing students with guidelines and resources.
This system increases a student’s self-esteem and motivation as they become an active participant in the entire learning process. It is well known that a student learns more through listening and visualizing than just reading. The use of activity-based audiovisual media in the classroom generates more interest in the lesson being taught. E-learning portals make education accessible to those students who previously did not have access to it. Various courses and methods are attended by students of all ages at their own time and place. It makes the entire education system more dynamic and learner-friendly.
One of the challenges the system faces is that its standard testing model cannot be adapted to the different learning speeds and learning styles of children. Some students respond faster to audiovisual content, while for others the response time is comparatively slow. However, the challenge can be turned into an opportunity by the teachers. The teachers can use the traditional teaching methods for regular classes. The K-12 e-classroom methods can be used simultaneously according to the different learning abilities of the students, for example to improve the performance of the weaker students.
The use of technology in the classroom encourages creative and unconventional thinking in the students as it presents the monotonous classroom in a very interesting and innovative way. The process fascinates and stimulates the students. Activity and project-based learning is valued and encouraged. American universities were once considered the best in the world, but are now striving to match their global peers in cost-efficiency while delivering through the K-12 system.
The concept of intelligent class and eLearning is a revolution in itself, making the country’s education system dynamic, efficient, student-centric and flexible. There are certain challenges that are being addressed and would soon be overcome with the introduction of newer technologies, techniques and processes.
Thanks to Jason Gaya
