How we’re using Technology
There is lots of evidence to suggest that the use of technology in classrooms has increased substantially in recent years. Saga Briggs presented a list of 10 Emerging Technologies in Education and How They Are Being Used Across the Globe in 2013 and more recently Trends in Educational Technology in 2020.
How we’re learning is changing with technology
With the rapid pace of technology, the way we are learning is also changing and adapting to different needs. Technologies in education are being integrated to support both teachers in planning and students in their learning. The opportunities that this brings to students in how, where and when they chose to learn is being seen both in and out of the classroom. Some examples of this include, but are not limited to:
- downloading learning apps
- free online courses
- modes of delivery – self-paced, online
- use of gamification
Website Future Learn https://www.futurelearn.com/
Digital learning in itself is providing more flexibility as we see students able to participate as lifelong learners. When integrated into VET courses, these technologies have the potential to increase digital literacy through developing creativity, problem solving and critical thinking skills. These are critical 21st century skills for the workplace. This relates to concepts of adult learning theory by Knowles, et al (2015, pp 221-223) including:
- Adults learn throughout life
- Emotions play a critical role in learning
- Learning occurs by connecting new knowledge to existing knowledge
The above concepts are seen to be the foundation for adult learning principles. (see below)
(The Peak Performance Centre, 2021)
References:
Adult Learning [Image]. (2021). The Peak Performance Centre. https://thepeakperformancecenter.com/educational-learning/teaching-training/principles-of-learining/adult-learning-principles/
Briggs, S. (2019, December 16). Trends in Educational Technology for 2020. OpenColleges. https://www.opencolleges.edu.au/informed/edtech-integration/trends-educational-technology-2020/
Briggs, S. (2013, July 16). 10 Emerging Educational Technologies and How They are Being Used Across the Globe. OpenColleges. http://www.opencolleges.edu.au/informed/features/the-ten-emerging-technologies-in-education-and-how-they-are-being-used-across-the-globe/
Creating Digital Citizens – What is Digital Literacy?. (n.d.). Weebly. http://purposefultechnology.weebly.com/creating-digital-citizens—what-is-digital-literacy.html
Knowles, M. S., Holton, E. F., & Swanson, R. A. (2015). The adult learner: the definitive classic in adult education and human resource development (8th. ed). Routledge.
Skilling for life: What is Lifelong Learning in Vocational Education and Training?. (2019, December 10). Cloud Assess. https://www.cloudassess.com.au/ca-blog/lifelong-learning
Stauffer, B. (2020, March 19). What are 21st Century Skills. Applied Education Systems. https://www.aeseducation.com/blog/what-are-21st-century-skills