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What is the Future of Education Technology?

Three-quarters of educators believe digital content will replace textbooks within the next five years. This is just one example of the many ways technology is revolutionizing education. The question is no longer whether technology will play a massive role in determining the future of education, but how -- and how educators can prepare themselves to navigate the constantly changing landscape. Here’s a closer look at the future of education technology, why it matters for educators, and one degree program designed to help aspiring education leaders acquire the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary for success.

Jan 12, 2021
  • Education
What is the Future of Education Technology?

What is edtech?

Education technology, or “edtech”, refers to the fusion of technology and education practices to deliver, facilitate, and enhance learning. Today’s classrooms look very different to the classrooms of 50, 25, or even 10 years ago. Tomorrow’s classrooms will look equally different due to the integration of advanced edtech tools which enable more engaging, effective, inclusive and personalized learning experiences for all students, as changing circumstances amid COVID have shown.

While edtech is a developing field, it’s potential implications are vast and far-reaching. In addition to transforming the student (and educator) experience, edtech can also play a critical role in ensuring that students gain the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in the digital age.

What’s now and what’s next in edtech?

Digital content is just the start of how educational technology is altering the landscape of the education sector. Many edtech-facilitated changes are on the horizon, including virtual reality (VR), gamification, and more individualized learning opportunities. In the near future, the industry will continue to evolve with the addition of even more technologies and technology-enabled practices, such as robotic kits which will be used to teach coding; the use of digital testing over traditional standardized testing frameworks; and crowdsourced tutoring -- or “micro-tutoring.”

In an eLearning article, eFaqt.com founder Christiaan Henny predicts nine things that will alter the face of education over the next decade and a half. These include opportunities for learning in different times and different places; more individualized learning; free choice; project-based learning; field experience; data interpretation; exams will be redesigned to reflect capabilities instead of competencies; student ownership; and an increased focus on mentoring. Each of these will in some way be bolstered by technology.

Why edtech matters for educators

Digital technologies are the future of education. And while we often think of their impact in terms of the student experience, they also have transformative potential for teachers. But there are some obstacles to overcome along the way.

One hurdle? While great technology minds may be responsible for creating new technologies, they lack the critical perspective offered by educators. “Conversely, strong educators aren’t necessarily equipped or inclined to deal with all the tech tools available to them and to develop ways to apply it to their discipline. They will be the first to tell you that there are enough challenges in their day-to-day work without asking them to become IT experts, as well,” says Built In.

So truly effective solutions hinge on understanding both the needs of the sector, as well as how to optimize the technology once it’s available. Educators with technology know-how are uniquely qualified to bridge this gap.

A cutting-edge edtech program

The Master in Education Technologies and Instructional Design at MIA Digital University is designed to prepare teachers and instructors to achieve advanced skills in curriculum, instruction, technology integration and leadership in a variety of educational environments. The program encompasses the latest research in learning theory, educational technology, and instructional design principles. Its focus on real-world applications and practical skills ensure that participants have the knowledge and skills they need to integrate educational technology into their classrooms in order to better support the learning experience.

Delivered in both English and Spanish, the 12-month Master in Education Technologies and Instructional Design can be taken fully online through the school’s online platform, the MIA University Campus. As a result, participants are able to create the most flexible and personalized learning experiences for their unique needs.

MIA Digital is an international business school offering online master, certificate and executive programs utilizing the most innovative educational and technological tools, MIA Digital’s mission is to imbue future leaders, entrepreneurs, and managers with high-level professional skills and a global viewpoint.

MIA Digital University graduate Valentina Galluzzo says, “MIA Digital University offered me the chance to learn beyond the classroom boundary. The University stimulates students’ personal growth through various interactive activities and I always receive support from my professors and tutors.”

“I am so proud to be a student here at MIA Digital University,” adds Cristian Caruso. “Skilful professors, brilliant tutors, international environment, great atmosphere to learn, to improve, to grow up. I feel grateful for this amazing opportunity. If you have a dream, come to MIA Digital University, the place where your dream becomes reality.”

In order to help all aspiring educators maximize their potential in the classroom, MIA Digital University’s Digital Age Education Support Scholarship program offers scholarships of up to 50 percent off for qualified teachers and professors, from Europe and all over the world. Meanwhile, university professors and school teachers with demonstrated professional experience are eligible for an award of up to 30 percent off the cost of the program’s tuition.

Education technology is here to stay, but its progress will be limited without people with the right knowledge and skills. Through their comprehensive understanding of educational technologies and expertise in active digital age learning techniques, graduates of MIA Digital’s Master in Education Technologies and Instructional Design are strategically positioned to lead the way.

Girl spending time with notebook and modern technology

Article written in association with MIA Digital University.

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Joanna Hughes

Author

Joanna worked in higher education administration for many years at a leading research institution before becoming a full-time freelance writer. She lives in the beautiful White Mountains region of New Hampshire with her family.