Caston Binger Examines Technology’s Impact On Students Learning From Home

Technology continues to impact the way students learn. The COVID-19 pandemic has put a spotlight on learning from home and how it impacts students’ education. Having technology devices and an internet connection allows students to access instructional resources with the click of a button. Caston Binger has been an elementary school teacher for more than 15 years and has seen an enormous change in the ways children can learn.

Distance Learning vs. Home Schooling

New technology has helped students of all ages learn from home. Many people assume that education completed from the home or another remote area is the same as homeschooling. While the location may be the same, the curriculum and credentials necessary to teach are frequently different.

Virtual learning or distance learning is usually managed through an accredited school. Students are taught by a certified teacher such as Caston Binger and are expected to pass the same set of standards as other students within the state.

Homeschooling may or may not include advanced technology to teach students. Parents are usually in control of the content depending on the type of homeschooling degree pursued. There is a fair amount of flexibility with homeschooling, and the schedule can be built around the parent’s time frame.

Special services are usually provided through distance learning. This can help with children who need accommodations and a rigorous schedule. Trained specialists contracted through the public education system are typically available during specific “office” hours.

New Technology For Continuing Education

Several innovative technologies help students learn. Even social media has been a surprising help during the pandemic. Immediate connection to an instructor makes it easier for many students to ask questions and understand the material.

Digital simulations are a new advancement to remote learning. By using digital simulations and models, teachers can help a variety of students learn complex material. Visual learners that may find text-based curriculum confusing or dense are likely to grasp simulations much faster. This is also true for students who primarily learn through tactile perception.

E-books are now stored in the cloud. Increased access to online resources may make research easier for students. Another benefit to this type of technology includes monetary expenses. E-books and online text can save money. Digital course material is easy to access on small devices, increasing the likelihood of student preparation.

Audio files may also be posted. These files can range from lectures to scientific methods. Many students can listen to course material while sleeping if they use specific audio equipment. Audio files that teachers upload can improve the retention of material and help students study for exams. Specific formats of digital audio can also listen through portable devices.

Online Group Learning

Game-based learning is especially effective for children. This can be geared toward those who have attention deficiency as well as focused students. Game-based learning can take the form of advanced video games or simple puzzles. Incorporating simulations into the curriculum can encourage students to continue learning even after the school day is done.

Online group collaboration can be done through multiple online platforms. Using video software to include a classroom can provide an environment for group projects and class participation. Even without video software, students can still share files and documents for easier access.

Handheld Devices For The Advancement Of Education

While many teachers have discouraged cell phone use in the classroom, learning methods are changing. Smartphones that have access to the internet can be a distraction and a source for new learning tools.

Tablets and other mobile devices can help keep students up to date with downloadable websites. This form of learning does not require the use of the internet while in a school setting. For students who are kinesthetic learners, hands-on screens can help aid learning with motion sensors. Motion sensors can physically guide students to help with learning angles and spatial perception.

Benefits of Remote Learning

Virtual education became a necessity during the pandemic. Forty-eight states currently support learning some form of online learning. This can include occasional online instruction as well as full-time virtual education.

Remote learning for children has multiple hidden benefits. Because the curriculum can be learned at a regulated pace, many students with attention difficulties benefit from more time. Extra distractions in a classroom setting are also minimized when using an online platform.

Parents can see what’s happening throughout their child’s education. While they may or may not be allowed to watch the actual instruction, they can review many of the class materials and books. An in-depth look at how a class is structured can help many struggling students.

There are also favorable aspects to the social structure of online learning. With more individual attention from teachers and less in-person socializing, bullying can be handled much more effectively. Students that may feel like outsiders can greatly benefit from this type of environment.

Technology Integration For The Future

Technology is changing how students and instructors communicate information to one another. Since the pandemic, the options for remote learning have greatly expanded. By blending technology with classic teaching methods, students can learn using a variety of approaches.

Technology integration means students are using technology regularly. Depending on the types of technology available, this can impact the timing and ease of quality education. Successfully incorporating technology means students will have up-to-date course material, accurate data collection forms, an array of communication opportunities, and a multimedia approach.

A child’s mind is flexible and usually able to adapt to new experiences. By focusing on recent advances in technology, students can prepare themselves for the future of communication and education. Embracing innovative learning methods can help students succeed in and out of the classroom.