In the past few years, we have seen how education technology has completely revolutionized how we teach and learn. The approach to learning has been transformed with a personalized experience, better access to education, engaging curriculum, etc. which are proving to be a game changer in the education sector.
Today the adoption rate of technology in higher education or schools is larger than ever and as it further integrates; we should be aware of whether these technological advancements are truly beneficial to all learners or not.
So, let’s understand the current state of education technology and how EdTech companies can integrate and promote inclusive education.
Current State of EdTech
Over the last few years, the global EdTech market has experienced exponential growth. As per Markets and Markets, the global EdTech and Smart Classrooms market is expected to reach $232.9 billion by 2027. Several reasons contribute to this huge growth including rapid internet penetration and an increase in the number of mobile devices.
In the field of education, we can find interactive whiteboards, learning management systems, online courses, educational apps, and other technologies that have enhanced the overall learning experience.
Smart technology offers several advantages including:
- Personalized learning
EdTech platforms easily adjust and customize the course content and pace as per students’ learning needs and capabilities.
- Increase engagement
The use of advanced technologies like videos, Augmented and Virtual Reality, simulation, gamification, etc. make learning more enjoyable and engaging.
- Accessibility
Because of online availability, high-quality course content can easily reach students in remote areas or those who cannot attend classes due to disabilities, thus eliminating geographical and physical barriers.
- Data-driven insights
Moreover, EdTech tools can also collect and analyze student data effectively to provide insights into their learning patterns, areas of improvement, or if any student is at risk of leaving school, etc.
- Easy administration
Not just learning and teaching, technology can help educational institutes and organizations streamline their administration process with better scheduling, allocating resources optimally, etc.
Seeing these benefits of intelligent technology in higher education and schools; we cannot infer that the current state of EdTech is perfect, rather it is not. Most of the educational platforms and tools from EdTech companies are still based on a one-size-fits-all approach which is ineffective in meeting the requirements of all diverse learners.
Therefore, this lack of inclusivity can further worsen the existing inequalities and create new barriers for students from certain sections of society.
Need for Inclusive Education
Inclusive education is a fundamental human right. It means all students, no matter what their background, abilities, or learning styles are, have equal access to quality education.
Inclusive education is necessary in today’s world to promote social justice and prepare students to thrive in a rapidly advancing technological world.
But the problem in achieving a fully inclusive education is over and above just physical integration. It requires a shift in mindset, designing policies, practices, and more to create learning environments that are suitable for all learners.
Redefining Goals for EdTech
EdTech companies must redefine goals and priorities to promote inclusive education. They should not just focus on profits or market share but should also prioritize what learners want, especially those from marginalized communities.
Here are a few things that they can do:
- Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
They must design platforms using UDL principles that can offer a varied form of content, different methods of expression, and multiple engagement options that help students of all learning styles and needs.
- Culturally Responsive Pedagogy
It refers to designing culturally sensitive tools that incorporate different backgrounds, prevent biases, and encourage empathy by offering opportunities to learn about different cultures and perspectives.
- Assistive Technology
EdTech companies must also prioritize integrating assistive technologies like screen readers or adaptive devices into their platforms that will ensure seamless accessibility and help students with disabilities.
- Teacher Training and support
Investing in teacher training can also prove to be a wise decision, especially in higher education, that will be effective in integrating EdTech tools and creating an inclusive learning environment. Thus, institutions will be able to provide the right resources, workshops, and support.
- Collaboration and Partnership
EdTech companies also need to actively partner with stakeholders like educators, policymakers, and community organizations and create an inclusive education system.
Conclusion
EdTech is revolutionizing the education industry and has the potential to create equal learning opportunities for all. However, achieving this feat requires them to redefine their goals and prioritize inclusive education.
The EdTech companies and institutes need to embrace UDL principles, culturally responsive pedagogy, assistive technology, teacher training, and collaboration to bring the necessary change required to build and promote inclusive education.
Not just institutes and EdTech companies, it is the collective responsibility of everyone to ensure we technology to empower all learners, no matter what their background, abilities, or learning styles are. We must work together to create a future where education is truly inclusive and accessible to all.