How advancements in technology completely changed the education sector

In the not-so-distant past, the image of a classroom was synonymous with chalk dust, textbook pages, and the occasional overhead projector mishap. Fast-forward to today and the landscape of education has been completely transformed by technological advancements that would have seemed like science fiction just a few decades ago.

India Today spoke with a handful of experts to find out more about technological advancements in the education sector.

RISE OF DIGITAL CLASSROOMS

Remember the days of chalkboards and whiteboards? Those humble tools have now taken a backseat to interactive smart boards that can display anything from complex mathematical equations to live-streamed virtual field trips. With digital interfaces, teachers have a dynamic canvas to engage students in once unimaginable ways. No more screeching chalk sounds or the frantic search for an elusive whiteboard marker!

“Technology can be a game changer for education institutions. At FindMytuition.com we believe that every education should provide personalised learning, and this can only be possible with the help of tech, for example, every student is different, with unique learning styles and needs, just as every teacher has their strengths and approaches”, said Shashank Pathak, CEO, FindMytuition.com.

He also mentioned that technology allows us to personalise learning in a way that’s never been possible before, pairing each student with the perfect tutor for them. With technology, geography is no longer a barrier, even small tuition centres can be available all over the globe.

ACCESS TO KNOWLEDGE

Once upon a time, knowledge was locked away in library stacks or expensive encyclopaedias. Today, the internet has democratised access to information. Students can access a wealth of resources with just a few clicks, from scholarly articles to YouTube tutorials. This accessibility has levelled the playing field, allowing learners from all corners of the globe to pursue education on their terms.

LEARNING BEYOND BORDERS

Gone are the days when geography determined the limits of learning. Virtual classrooms and online learning platforms connect students and educators across continents. Whether you’re learning Mandarin from a teacher in Beijing or discussing literature with peers in London, technology has fostered a global community of learners who share knowledge and experiences without ever leaving their homes.

“As you know, nowadays, everyone wants quick results and if any question or topic creates a barrier for students, their attention drops quickly. At FindMytuition.com, we’ve seen how our features like ‘Chat with Teacher’ and ‘Talk to Teacher’ options have revolutionised the learning experience,” said Shashank Pathak.

He also says that these tools allow students to interact directly with educators, ask questions in real-time, and receive personalised guidance whenever they need it and this module can be helpful for many small and big institutions and students around the nation.

TAILORING EDUCATION

Technology has ushered in an era of personalised learning, where adaptive algorithms and AI-powered platforms analyse student performance and tailor lessons accordingly. From customised quizzes that pinpoint areas of weakness to interactive simulations that bring complex concepts to life, educational tools now cater to individual learning styles and pace, ensuring that no student gets left behind.

“It’s not just about digitising textbooks; it’s about creating immersive learning environments that captivate students’ imaginations and adapt to their individual needs. Moreover, tech advancements have become a great equaliser, bringing quality education within reach of students across diverse socio-economic backgrounds. The next big step in this direction now is AI which is giving a new definition to personalisation in education,” said Akshay Chaturvedi, Founder & CEO, Leverage.biz.

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM:

Education doesn’t end at graduation any more. With online courses, webinars, and virtual workshops, professionals can continuously upgrade their skills throughout their careers. Technology has made lifelong learning more accessible and flexible, empowering individuals to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving job market.

“In a country as vast as India, with its immense youth population (over 808 million under 35) and a significant skill gap (where only 5 per cent of graduates are formally skilled), technology emerges as a potent tool for achieving educational equity. The traditional education system often struggles to bridge the gap. By eliminating the constraints of physical infrastructure, online platforms enable students to access high-quality education regardless of their location,” said AR Ramesh, CEO, TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship.

CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

Of course, with great innovation comes great responsibility. As education becomes increasingly digital, concerns about data privacy, digital literacy, and the digital divide must be addressed. Ensuring equitable access to technology and preparing students to navigate the complexities of the digital world are crucial steps in harnessing the full potential of technological advancements in education.

“Major key challenges we see in this market are fear of technology. Most tutors feel it is going to be expensive, or it could steal data and privacy, and they are right on their side because, nowadays, increasing online fraud that fear can be natural. In addition, with technology, they think it is coming with expensive hardware. In my opinion, the major reason is fear and money,” said Shashank.

FUTURE OF LEARNING

As we gaze into the future, one thing is clear: the evolution of technology in education shows no signs of slowing down. Virtual reality classrooms, AI tutors, and blockchain credentials are just a glimpse of what’s on the horizon. While the tools may change, the goal remains the same: to empower learners, inspire curiosity, and prepare them for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow’s world.