Learning is definitely changing within the classroom. Thanks to technology, students can now actively engage in the learning material. Instead of looking at pictures in a textbook, students learn by doing. Virtual reality and augmented reality allow students to have experiences that weren’t possible before. For example, zSpace allows students to examine the human heart and layers of the earth’s atmosphere. It makes learning come alive and engages students in new, exciting ways.
Technology can also be used to personalize learning and differentiate lessons for different types of learning. With education software that adapts to each student’s skill level, students are able to learn at their own pace. These types of software are also beneficial for the teacher as the software provides data on how students are learning and progressing. This allows educators to focus on problems areas where students need the most help.
The Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) says
, “When used purposefully, computers allow teachers to differentiate instruction by providing a wider variety of avenues for learning that reach students of divergent readiness levels, interests, and learning styles.” Technology can be useful by assisting teachers in meeting the needs of all students.