Can AI and Mobiles Radically Transform Education?
Can AI and Mobiles Radically Transform Education?
One Tech Forward. One Tech Back.
Have you ever wondered how technology truly impactseducation and whether it's time for a policy refresh?
With insights from the future of work and tech expert DanSodergren, let's dive into the delicatebalance of technology in education, exploring the benefits, the challenges, and
the undeniable shift needed to prepare students for the future.
The Slow Evolution of Educational Tech
It takes a long time for schools to embrace newtechnologies. Dan Sodergren points out that the education sector is notably sluggish to incorporate technological advancements. For instance, it took around 13 years for calculators to be accepted in classrooms. There appears to be a broader hesitancy within educational systems to adapt to the rapidly evolving tech landscape. This creates a disconnect between educational policy and thecontemporary digital world.
Preparing for the Future of Work
The future of work is rapidly being shaped byadvances in technology. Schools currently prepare students for obsolete careers in fields and factories, while the world moves towards an era dominated by AI and mobile technology. Education systems are challenged to evolve and prepare students for this new reality, emphasising the importance of teaching methodologies that incorporate AI and mobile tech education.
Dan stresses that we're entering the fifthindustrial revolution,yet education is still catching up to the third or at tops the fourth. By incorporating mobile technology and AI into the curriculum responsibly, educators can better prepare students for future job markets that demand these
skills.
The Need for a Digital Green Cross Code
Education has already adopted various strategies regarding mobile technology and they are starting to respond to AI, sometimes with bans, which will not work and is counterproductive to the future students are being prepared for. Dan Sodergren suggests a through and thoughtful "Digital Green Cross Code," teaching students not only how to use technology but also how to do so responsibly, highlighting the necessity of digital literacy for young learners.
The concept of a digital green cross code isessential for guiding students in navigating the digital world safely and productively. Understanding and managing their digital footprint, recognising reliable sources of information, and using technology in a balanced and ethical manner are crucial skills for the digital age.
The Role of Teachers and Policy Change
For these shifts to occur, both teachers andeducational policies must adapt. Educators need training to understand and teach the latest technologies effectively, especially AI as it is changing the world we live in and will continue to do so. Educational policies should reflect the current digital landscape, incorporating technology into the curriculum in a way that prepares students for the future.
The resistance from some educators, rooted in thefear of technology's negative aspects, needs to be addressed through professional development and policy shifts. Embracing technology in education involves a cultural change within the sector, moving towards an approach that balances the benefits of tech with the essentials of human interaction and traditional learning methods.
FAQ
Why is it important to integrate technology intoeducation?
Integrating technology is crucial to preparingstudents for the future job market, which increasingly relies on digital skills.
What are the main challenges in balancingtechnology in education?
The main challenges include overcoming theeducation sector's resistance to change, addressing the dual nature of mobile technologies, and ensuring responsible use.
How can educators help students use technologyresponsibly?
Educators can teach students digital literacyskills, such as managing notifications and distinguishing between reliable and
unreliable online sources.
The AI Teacher Course Conclusion
Balancing technology in education is not just aboutincorporating the latest gadgets into the classroom; it's about preparing students for a future that is digital at its core. Despite the challenges,
including the education sector's slow pace of change and the multifaceted nature of mobile technology, the benefits of adequately integrating technology into education cannot be overstated. It's about ensuring that students not only thrive in their future careers but also navigate the digital world responsibly.
As we stand at the precipice of the fifthindustrial revolution,the role of educators is clear: to bridge the gap between traditional teaching methods and the demands of the modern world. With concerted efforts in policy change and educator training, the potential of technology in education can be fully realised.
References for the piece
Find out about Dan here www.dansodergren.com
The whole interview on the BBC radiocan be found here.
Dan’s book about NewIntelligence and Fifth Industrial Revolution can be found here.
Dan is co-founderof the AI Teacher Course. www.aiteachercourse.com