7 Ways Technology Can Enhance Learning

When it comes to children and technology, we’re often told that the combination is a bad thing. Parents are frequently warned of the negative impact of too much screen time, and are encouraged to limit their child’s time using devices on a regular basis. However, despite these negative connotations, technology can have some positive influences on your child, too.

Technology as a learning tool can be a great help in enhancing how your child takes in information. In fact, done correctly, the use of technology in teaching and learning can have so many benefits. Read on to learn more.

The importance of technology in education
We learned of the true importance of technology in education during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many lessons made the shift to online formats that allowed for at-home learning. And with new technological advances happening every day, we are now living in a world in which information is super easy to find, no matter where you are.

This can be highly useful for children of all ages when tech is incorporated into classroom teaching. Forbes has acknowledged this fact in a recent article highlighting that use of technology can be linked to better educational outcomes.

Below, we’ll be outlining some of the ways technology can enhance learning in schools, along with some helpful examples of these points. So, without further ado: what are the benefits of technology in education?

1. Improves engagement

Technology can improve levels of student engagement by offering a fun and exciting approach to learning. For example, by incorporating interactive online games or including videos in lessons, children may be more stimulated to participate. This can improve concentration levels and ensure that classroom engagement remains high. Online classes and digital learning platforms can also offer the chance for students to give feedback, fostering continuous engagement with lessons.

1. Encourages a sense of connection

When online classrooms became the norm during the pandemic, many children were given the opportunity to continue to connect with their peers virtually. The addition of fun interactive games or e-sports, which allow children to participate virtually, can be a helpful tool in improving this sense of connection through a screen.

Technology can be a great way to allow students to communicate, even when they are not physically together in the same place. However, it’s important that this is done in a healthy and balanced way, without excessive social media use or prolonged online gaming activity. In addition, many schools have invested in online mental health support services for their students so that those who require help can get some online, without feeling alone.

1. Real-world simulations

These days, graphics have become so detailed and realistic that simulations look more believable than ever! Technological advancements combined with scientific research have led to the increased potential for real-world simulations of different scenarios or challenges. Tests of this type can challenge students’ cognitive abilities and improve their decision-making skills.

1. Can cater to different learning styles

Technology makes a much more flexible approach to learning achievable. With the use of different technologies, students can process information in the way that works for them. This respects the fact that people take in information differently, and allows education to be as effective as possible.

For example, adding visual aids such as photos or videos may greatly benefit certain students, whereas others may prefer reading, and some may prefer doing things with their hands – and technology allows all of these styles to be catered for. Allowing for a combination of approaches to learning can make school much more enjoyable for children.

1. Improved problem-solving and decision-making skills

In addition to the real-world simulations mentioned above, the inclusion of online tests or quizzes can stimulate students’ problem-solving and decision-making capabilities. Working either individually or in teams or groups, students can build on these skills in the classroom through the use of interactive technologies.

1. Improves multitasking

Technology can allow students to improve their multitasking skills by helping them practice dealing with several challenges at once. Through the use of expansive technologies in the classroom, children can participate in several activities at once when needed. For example, they can search information or view supplementary material online, all while listening to their teacher. Of course, sometimes it’s better to have fewer distractions, but having the ability to multitask is important in today’s fast-paced world.

1. Visual spatial development

Visual spatial skills describe the way in which we make sense of objects in the space around us, through our sense of sight. One interesting way that technology can aid this is through games promoting visual focus – games such as jigsaw puzzles or even Tetris-style challenges can be a great help.

How can technology improve education?
We hope our outline of the various ways technology can enhance education has been an interesting insight for you. When used correctly, technology has many benefits for students, both inside the classroom and at home. Its social benefits include increased connectivity to others and general engagement with lessons. In terms of skills, students can benefit from a whole array of digital learning tools to help them better some fundamental skills – things like decision-making and problem-solving especially. Online classrooms or one-on-one tutoring are also an amazing way to enhance your child’s education.

Featured image by Marvin Meyer on Unsplash