Technology can be found everywhere in our day-to-day lives. It affects how we socialize, work, play and, most importantly, learn. Not only that, technology has the potential to transform the way in which we educate future generations. More and more classrooms are implementing technology into their curriculum, improving education for students and teachers alike. Below are the latest innovations that can improve learning and teaching in the classroom.
Google Chromebook
One of the most versatile classroom tools is Google Chromebook. Though it has proven itself best for practicing typing for third through 12th graders, college students have also taken note of this device. It lets classmates and faculty collaborate, communicate and work online, making it perfect for college projects and especially students at commuter-based universities. Its features include instant startup and up to 8.5 hours of battery so students can spend more time learning. In addition, it is lightweight and easy to transport. All the while, IT doesn’t have to spend as much time managing the devices because of Chromebook’s use of near-field communication.
Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 Education
The Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 Education is fully equipped with a 10.1-inch display and multi-window technology. This way, students can view several educational apps at a time, helping them gain multi-tasking and productivity skills. This device has up to 10 hours of battery life, and its charging port can be hooked up to a single tablet, reducing classroom clutter and potential safety liabilities.
Because this tablet is so interactive, it nearly eliminates the need for third-party mobile device management. This way, teachers are able to focus elsewhere and students become more technologically responsible. This allows them to take more control over their learning and helps them gain vital independent skills. With expensive technology, safety of the devices is always of upmost important, but this device is very durable.
“We haven’t had any of them break. We haven’t had any screen damage,” says Jeremy Pearson, supervisor of IT for the Fort Dodge Community School District in Iowa.
Google Nexus 7
Google Nexus is a mobile device that offers features like microphones and headset ports. Its hands-free build really allows for students to both create and listen to content. It also has a front and rear camera that lets students observe and capture high-quality photos.
“Some of the things that really excited us about the Nexus 7 and Google Play for Education is the differentiation that could happen,” said Bobby Lehman, an educational technology specialist with the Boulder Valley School District in Colorado, according to EdTech Magazine.
The tablet allows teachers to push different apps to specific grade levels, giving students a unique, personalized learning experience. Julie Stewart of Colorado’s Challenge to Excellence Charter School, had rave reviews on the device after pairing it with a stylus to help a student who was struggling with small movements.
“It was really amazing to see how a different tool was able to allow the student to learn,” Stewart told EdTech Magazine.
What’s trending
Education technology budgets are on the rise with no sign of slowing down. With technology is the opportunity for new and innovative education trends in the classroom. These new devices allow for a key educational tech trend called flipped learning. This is where students watch videos outside the classroom and do homework inside with the teacher in person. This approach is predicted to increase engagement inside and outside the classroom, all of which cannot be done without innovative technological devices, according to Inc. Magazine.
The future
Technology in the classroom can help prepare students for their future while encouraging different learning styles and processes. No two students learn the same. Technology can provide the ultimate individualized educational experience. From lightening a student’s load to catching up on homework, with the right technology in the classroom students are given the opportunity they deserve to thrive.
To stay up-to-date on emerging technology news and other breaking tech news, don’t forget to visit our Emerging Technology page.
