Examples of New Technologies in Higher Education
Some of these tools are already widespread, while others are just beginning to be implemented.
Artificial Intelligence
AI-powered tools can analyze large amounts of data and provide personalized feedback and guidance to each student. This can help adult learners, who often have different learning styles and needs than traditional students. AI-powered tutors can provide additional support and resources for adult learners struggling with a particular concept. AI can also be used to create adaptive learning systems, which adjust the difficulty of the material and the pace of instruction based on the student’s performance. This can be useful for your clients who have been out of school for a while or have limited time to devote to their studies.
Virtual Reality
Virtual reality technology can provide adult learners with immersive and interactive experiences that simulate real-world environments and scenarios, which can be particularly beneficial for fields such as healthcare, engineering, and construction. Students in a nursing program could use VR to practice patient care in a simulated hospital environment, while adult learners in a construction program could use VR to practice building techniques in a virtual construction site. This type of hands-on learning can help adult learners better understand and retain the material and prepare them for the real-world applications of their field.
Mobile Learning
Mobile learning, also known as m-learning, uses mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets to access educational content and resources. Mobile learning can also be used for online assessments, quizzes, and coursework submissions, which can help your clients stay on track and complete their studies on schedule.
Interactive and Immersive Learning
Interactive and immersive learning technologies, such as gamification, 3D simulations, and virtual worlds, can create engaging and interactive learning experiences that can be especially beneficial for adult learners. These technologies allow your clients to actively participate in their learning rather than just passively listening. As an example, MedCerts is one of the schools on the leading edge in incorporating interactive and immersive learning for students.
Tips for Staying Updated on EdTech Trends
Here are some ways you can keep up-to-date with new online learning tools in education:
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Subscribe to newsletters and publications related to higher education, such as eCampus News and Inside Higher Ed.
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Watch for trending news and social/tech shifts that may affect higher education, such as advancements in online learning and the use of artificial intelligence.
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Attend conferences and webinars on higher education, such as the EDUCAUSE Annual Conference.
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Join professional organizations and groups related to higher education, such as the International Society for Technology in Education.
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Participate in online communities, such as EdSurge Higher Ed Tech Community, where educators and education technologists share ideas and knowledge.
Helping Your Clients Succeed With EdTech
Online learning technologies can help your clients learn new job skills when traditional school options may be limited. By choosing an innovative learning environment such as MedCerts that takes advantage of everything EdTech can offer students, your clients can gain the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in rewarding careers such as healthcare and information technology.