Incorporating Technology in Classrooms: The Modern Teaching Approach

Educational institutions are moving from traditional learning towards integrating technology in classrooms. Teachers are changing their teaching methodology to adapt digital teaching methods to leverage students by opening them to a pool of educational resources and study material. Smart classes are the new trend in the education industry, where learning is being simulated by technology such as artificial intelligence, augmented reality, virtual reality and social media. The audio-visual form of learning helps students quickly understand complex topics and retain what is taught for a considerably longer time. Let us learn more about the modern teaching approach that collaborates with technology in classrooms.

What is the methodology of teaching in education?

Various educators use teaching methodologies to facilitate learning by making it more engaging and interactive. The educational institutions in India imparting primary, middle school, or secondary learning follow a systematic and organised pattern for teaching students. The teaching methodology in education may differ from teacher to teacher, but the framework of teaching approach, strategies, and techniques remains the same. It depends on the educational needs of the child. The right teaching methodology facilitates learning and helps students acquire knowledge, skills, and detailed understanding. Among the various teaching methodologies employed to educate students, the choice of methods mainly depends on the subject, topic, grade level, learning objectives, and the primary learning style of students. The teaching methodology can differ from lecture-based learning to practical explanations.

Types of teaching methodology

The various types of teaching methodology are as follows-

1. Lecture-based learning– It is a traditional method of teaching adopted by most schools where students learn by observing the speeches delivered by teachers in classrooms. During the lectures, students are allowed to make notes and ask questions.

2. Practical learning– Teachers encourage students to actively participate in lectures instead of being moot listeners. By participating in various activities and discussions, students learn beyond the topic and are more likely to retain what is taught.

3. Grouped learning– Students are divided into groups and assigned topics to present in front of the class. The teacher is a mere supervisor, while the students act as teachers and instruct the class about the topic.

4. Technology-based learning– Teachers use modern technology, such as smart boards, computers, tablets, etc., to facilitate students’ learning. Virtual classrooms are the new trend and help in instructing students in a better way.

What are the advantages of using technology in education?

Educational technology, or edutech, is a real game changer in educational institutions. They help enhance the teaching and learning experience by breaking down difficult and complex concepts into bite-sized information that is easier for students to consume and for teachers to deliver. The various benefits of technology in education are-

1. Diversity in educational resources– Teachers use technology to diversify the learning pool by providing access to vast information and educational resources. Students can look for related topics and queries on digital platforms, including libraries, online databases, and educational websites. Instead of being held by limited resources, technology helps students explore new topics and stay updated with current information.

2. Personalised teaching– It becomes easier for teachers to cater to the educational needs of the entire class by getting help from AI-based learning. Instead of developing a teaching methodology for every group of students, technology enables a standard method of imparting education that all students can easily understand. Students get access to educational resources that match their learning styles and speed.

3. Flexibility in learning– In recent years, technology has paved the way for remote learning, where students can access classes without physically going to school. Online learning platforms and virtual classrooms offer additional benefits by offering flexibility in time and location. Students get access to educational materials from anywhere by having an internet connection.

4. Student evaluation– The new method of taking tests and exams is switching to an online mode where various technical applications can evaluate students’ assessments. Teachers can feed the evaluation data and analyse student performance in the academic year to suggest improvements and change the teaching methodology.

5. Global learning opportunities: Technology helps promote remote learning by breaking down geographical barriers where students from abroad can learn without physically being present. Virtual exchanges and online learning with international peers are becoming increasingly common for students.

How do teachers use technology in classrooms?

Edtech or education technology encompasses a range of tools, devices, software, and platforms that the top boarding schools are integrating to support and enhance the teaching and learning process. A few of the virtual classroom solutions are-

1. Smartboards– Most boarding schools have shifted to smart classes where educators teach the students using digitalisation in classrooms. It becomes easier for teachers to display diverse content from various online resources. Using visual aids, such as audio, videos and presentations, students grasp better.

2. Video conferencing– Teachers are adapting newer means to unravel the galaxy of knowledge. Through video conferencing, teachers can connect with other senior teachers or esteemed speakers to deliver detailed lectures on topics of importance for the professional life of the students.

3. Gamification tools– Students at residential schools are also provided with laptops and tablets at schools for educational purposes. Teachers introduce quizzes and game-like elements to take assessments or explain specific topics better. The involvement of scoreboards, badges and leadership boards helps drive student motivation and encourages them to learn and perform better.

4. AR/VR aid– Going a step ahead into the world of technology, augmented reality and virtual reality are helping offer an immersive experience for students to live in the digital world physically. This digital learning tool helps students learn better by placing themselves into the topic instead of reading and assembling bits of information to form a big picture.

5. Learning Management System (LMS)– One of the most unique ways to use technology in classrooms is using e-learning applications such as Google Classroom and Moodle to monitor, manage, and deliver assessments, notes, and additional study material to students. Educators use the online space as a platform to create online courses, give assessment assignments and then communicate personally with the learners.

How does technology impact student engagement in the classroom?

1. Fosters interactive learning– Instead of being moot listeners and getting bored by theory-based education, students can actively engage in the learning process; technology such as interactive whiteboards, digital simulations, and educational apps allows students to immerse themselves in interactive lessons and activities that stimulate their learning process. Students can frame the delivered lectures as flowcharts, diagrams, etc, answer questions, and participate in discussions.

2. Reduces boredom– Students will likely lose focus and get bored during long standard lectures. With technology-based learning, students are taught using digital content such as videos, animations, and presentations. It helps capture students’ attention and improves retention rate for a selectively long period. Moreover, multimedia can explain complex concepts and bring subjects to life.

3. Personalisation– Different students have differing learning styles, speed, and grasping abilities, which must not be overlooked. With technology, students are given a standard platform where every student can get access to study materials explaining complex topics on a micro level. The educational content is tailored based on individual needs and ensures it covers the learning styles of all students.

4. Storytelling and presentation– Students are often divided into groups and tasked with making presentations or videos to explain their understanding of concepts and topics. It helps in actively engaging, boosting creativity and explaining the topic in a synthesised way to the entire class. Away from traditional learning, this method helps create an interactive learning environment.

These are a few ways how the integration of technology in classrooms leverages both the teacher and students and simplifies the learning process.

SKV is among the best boarding schools in India that offers holistic learning to girls from class VI onwards. We have integrated technology in classrooms to give students unlimited educational resources. Under the guidance of our skilled, trained and experienced teachers, students learn in an intellectually stimulating environment.