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Technology-enabled learning in schools

3 Jun 2020 | Lesson Desk Team3 min read

Although the recent COVID-19 pandemic highlights the need for the incorporation of technology into schooling, the need for technology-enabled learning has actually been around for a lot longer. Let us take a closer look at some of the benefits.

In this article we will cover the benefits of self-paced learning, addressing knowledge gaps, incorporating a blended learning approach, and how technology can save time for both the educator and learner as well as increase engagement and retention of learners.

Self-paced learning

When we look at childhood development, it is often emphasised that children develop at different paces due to each child having their own temperament, style of social interaction and approach to learning.

Allowing children to learn at a pace that is suitable for them and in an environment that is supportive of this pace is crucial to fostering confidence, knowledge retention and comprehension during learning. Current traditional teaching methods do not allow for self-paced learning, hence the need for incorporating a new approach to learning that is suitable for all learners.

Online learning platforms such as Lesson Desk enable learners to take ownership of their learning, allowing learners to learn at a time, place and pace that is suitable for them—whether it be at home or in the classroom. Students who need extra time on a particular subject or lesson can spend more time going through exercises and additional material online until they understand it by using a technology-enabled learning platform which provides remedial lessons. In contrast, other students who require less support can move forward accordingly.

Blended learning

Using technology does not mean that you, the educator, will lose engagement with your students. In fact, it can enhance the overall learning experience and bring you and your learners closer together by incorporating a blended learning approach. This approach allows for learners and educators to have live engagement while making use of technology. Blended learning means combining traditional teaching methods with those of electronic or online resources. The blended learning approach is an excellent solution for hosting classes when face-to-face education is limited or when there are no physical resources such as a large classroom to facilitate classes in.

Engagement and retention

The average attention span is now as little as 50% compared to what it used to be, which highlights the need to incorporate alternative methods into traditional learning methods. Technology-enabled learning is known to make learning more engaging for learners.

Studies have shown that the use of videos, audio files and illustrations can all improve engagement and retention. By use of these tools, it creates excitement for the learner, which positively affects their learning experience. As we know, people are more likely to forget something if they found it boring, so increasing engagement and excitement is important in ensuring the retention of knowledge learnt. Learners not only have access to additional learning tools but also discussion forums to bring them closer to the subjects being learnt and creating further engagement.

Furthermore, a recent study on microlearning has demonstrated that providing learning in bite-sized chunks increases retention by up to 28%. Microlearning is a great way for educators to supplement or reinforce current learning for better retention. For learners who have ADD/ADHD or other learning disabilities, microlearning can assist where focus and attention is a challenge for such learners.

Saving time

Not only does technology-enabled learning help the learner, but it also aims to assist the educator. If you were to ask an educator what wish they would like to be granted, saving time on marking assessments would be at the top of the list. We understand that not all marking can be automated, but automating marking where applicable will help free up time for educators to spend where it is most needed.

Additional resources

Another benefit of technology-enabled learning is that both the educator and learner are no longer limited to the constraints of textbooks or printouts for additional learning material. Thanks to technology, educators can share an endless amount of additional learning material with their students online at a click of a button—anywhere, anytime!

Knowledge gaps

When educators are able to receive instant results for an assessment completed by a learner, they are able to identify specific areas for improvement almost immediately, and tailor the learning to address specific areas or knowledge gaps instantly.

At Lesson Desk, we provide learners with engaging and interactive training through our microlearning content. This saves the learner time in catching up, increases their retention and allows them to learn at their own pace while keeping up with the rest of the class.

The future for technology-enabled learning is looking bright and we are excited to be at the forefront of the digital learning era. If you would like to find out how Lesson Desk can assist you, visit www.lessondesk.com or contact us at learn@lessondesk.com.