Education is an ever changing landscape. Over the last thirty years, developments in technology have informed developments both in pedagogy and in how we design our learning spaces. What were once new buzzwords or trends have become established educational doctrine. Here, we look at some of the new trends in education today.
BYOD
Schools have been quick to grasp the opportunities for improved learning that mobile connectivity presents. In some countries, this has seen the development of BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) move from industry to education. In the UK, home bought devices are increasingly used by both staff and pupils to personalise learning, improve engagement, and develop technological skills.
How BYOD works across a state-funded model without disadvantaging less financially secure families and pupils is not yet clear, but the cost savings are tremendous for local authorities.
3D Printing
3D printing has the potential to transform the teaching of STEM subjects. The University of Hong Kong is leading the development of 3D printing in education, and we are already seeing these developments impact on maths, biology, and engineering, as well as design.
Designed learning space
Schools and colleges are moving away from the traditional formal classroom environment, which can often be seen as a barrier to learning, in favour of bespoke education buildings. Companies design learning spaces around the needs of students, rather than the old ‘one size fits all’ concept. This is increasingly popular for libraries and communal learning hubs in educational buildings, and is transforming the design of new schools. They will be like an open plan living area at home with several different learning environments. Usually they will use Laminate Wood Flooring from sites such as irwintiles.ie/index.php/wooden-flooring.html.
Improved dyslexia support
Between 5-15% of the population suffer some sort of leaning impairment caused by dyslexia. Phonics was the only established way to help these students access the curriculum, but new technology is transforming dyslexia support. Speech to text programmes, and predictive spelling apps, mean that dyslexic students can reach their potential and not be held back by disability.
Student driven learning
Teachers are becoming facilitators for children’s learning, rather than the focus. By allowing the student to take ownership of their education, it is improving results and developing pupils as problem solvers.
Global education
Education is increasingly being seen as a global business, and the interconnected nature of academic research means that it crosses international borders. Students are increasingly educated internationally by the time they reach university.
