Making better use of educational technology is a goal that both software and hardware companies are aggressively pursuing.

Keeping students engaged in today’s distraction-filled world is no easy feat. Teachers often have to contend with competing gadgets like tablets and smartphones distracting students from group instruction.

However, when used correctly, technology such as smartboards and AI-powered presentation devices reshape learning and create positive learning environments for students.

The trick is to grab their attention and keep them engaged. Many companies are dedicated to creating and selling solutions that accomplish those tasks.

According to Maryam Hassani, who holds a position at the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority focusing on trends and innovation, the worldwide market for educational technology is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 12.9% until 2032. In 2022, North America was at the forefront, capturing a 36% share of the revenue.

“The increase in EdTech is revolutionizing how educational journeys are shaped, offering fresh solutions to issues such as igniting interest in STEM areas and constructing personalized learning experiences for children with special needs,” she explained during an interview with TechNewsWorld.

It’s not just early and special education students reaping the benefits of advanced educational technology. The swift advancement of technology affects almost every aspect of human life, including education at all levels. Modern educational tools embedded with AI are aiding educators in simplifying complex subjects and making them more approachable for students at various educational stages.

EdTech is continuously evolving, revealing new emerging trends, said JQ Sirls, a co-founder and CEO at Storytailor, a company that customizes learning content to align with individual student experiences.

“Personalized learning through AI is making education more tailored to individual needs,” he told TechNewsWorld.

Gamification turns learning into an engaging experience. A growing focus on inclusivity and accessibility ensures modern learning tools are available to all students, regardless of their background or abilities.

“These trends are reshaping how we approach education, making it more dynamic and inclusive,” Sirls added.

Smart Technologies is a prime example of how computer-based methodologies make ed tech more effective. This company pioneers learning solutions that enable educators worldwide to build connections that matter using a full range of products.

To enhance efficiency, schools should adopt a more strategic approach towards integrating cutting-edge technology. This involves a dual-phase strategy that starts with determining the necessary software tools, followed by selecting appropriate hardware to support these tools in classrooms, as outlined by Jeff Lowe, executive vice president and chief commercial officer at Smart.

“The approach is straightforward. Begin with pedagogical methods, then evaluate software to discover which options align with your educational goals and can facilitate these methods,” he explained in an interview with TechNewsWorld.

According to Lowe, three critical elements contribute to this strategy’s success. His team collaborates with client schools to pinpoint the ideal educational technology tools that meet the specific requirements of students and support the educational objectives of the curriculum.

Lowe warned that the current state of educational technology might not be very effective or successful, as the common practice often flips this strategic approach. “As a company that develops both hardware and software, we recognize our role in this process,” he remarked.

Sometimes, schools plunge into acquiring the latest technological devices without a definite plan for their utilization in classrooms or understanding how they fit into educational strategies, Lowe explains. Decisions are often made with a primary focus on the hardware. It’s crucial for school administrators to determine its application in the curriculum and the corresponding software needed.

The final phase in adopting technology is training and professional development. The emphasis of this training should be on integrating the technology into educational methods rather than merely instructing on its use.

“Training is universally acknowledged as vital, yet it typically revolves around the technology itself,” he continued. “The focus, however, should be on the intended educational outcomes for students and teachers, and how technology enhances these outcomes, which requires a different training approach.”

Lowe pointed out that Smart Technology specializes in conducting its training programs through teachers for teachers. The company employs a large number of current and former educators, providing a broad spectrum of expertise in technological integration that benefits their clients.

The difficulty arises in expanding this knowledge effectively. Mere one-time training sessions are insufficient for substantial professional development. Lowe highlighted that this is a critical obstacle to overcome.

“Often, it entails a train-the-trainer model where certain educators, deeply educated perhaps by ourselves, champion the initiative to extensively train their colleagues within their institution,” he explained.

According to Lowe, broadening the scope of training is essential for success. It’s important for education leaders to ensure training encompasses not only teachers but also principals and technology directors.

“Coordination is crucial. Lack of a well-thought-out plan results in only partial benefits being realized. Without proper coordination, it leads to overwhelming teachers by adding to their already busy schedules, not just with the integration of new technologies but also with other ongoing pressures,” Lowe advised.

Addressing this significant challenge is essential for educational institutions. Smart Technologies enhances this process through its ambassador program. The products from the company are employed all over the world, connecting thousands of educators within an online community it fosters for mutual support.

This platform allows educators to share inquiries where users of various software and hardware tools assist each other. Lowe highlights the value of having community-level experts worldwide who aid one another across different languages. They provide not only training but also share best practices for effectively utilizing technology and for crafting websites that support self-directed learning.

The value of these interactions is crucial and should not be underestimated as they play a key role in educational success.

Lowe emphasizes, “Once educators realize that integrating educational technology aligns with their current practices, it doesn’t feel like just another task on their already long list of responsibilities,”.

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