Education is a powerful force for shaping what people know and who they are as individuals. It dictates the way we think and perceives the world around us.
The future of education will depend on how we choose to use this power. One thing is sure: no matter which direction we go, education will never be the same again. This article outlines some trends that will continue to shape our education system in the coming years and suggests ways to prepare today’s learners for an uncertain future ahead.
Virtual Learning
Access to high-speed broadband and cloud computing will see an expansion in virtual learning. Online learning will shift from a supplementary means of spreading knowledge to one integrated as an essential part of the learning process. It can go from MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) and TEL (Tailored Enhanced Learning) to the increasing prevalence of VLEs (Virtual Learning Environments) in schools.
Learners who embrace online systems as a way of accessing knowledge, gathering their information, and collaborating with their peers will be the ones to benefit most from this shift.
Technological Advancement
The rise in robotics and technology means that automation is beginning to replace human workers — a trend that will only continue. The general need for fewer people performing routine tasks will drive advances in robotic technology, which will continue to impact the way many industries work.
The need for new forms of education that focus on creativity and problem-solving is becoming more apparent as traditional learning methods are phasing out. Learners who have a greater capacity to adapt to fast-changing technological environments will be the ones most likely to succeed in the future where reliance on technology is a given.
Gamification of Education
The use of video games has been effective in engaging learners from an early age, but it’s only just beginning to be helpful as a tool for education. The gamification of learning systems will be the next step in this process, and we could see the greater emphasis on the extrinsic rewards of learning.
Learners who embrace more game-like elements of education, such as points and leaderboards, will help to drive this shift in thinking. They will be better with the skills necessary for success in a more than ever focussed on fast-paced technological advancements.
Smart Classroom Setup
The traditional way of classroom learning is becoming a challenge by engaging learners more effectively. Learners demand a safer class environment where they can work in comfort, with access to smart gadgets and devices.
As universities and schools look to innovate their classroom environments for successive generations, HVAC installation will play an increasingly central role in learning. Centralized systems — driven by the need to keep classrooms at a comfortable temperature — allow for greater ease and efficiency.
The Rise of Uncertainty
The future of education will see a greater emphasis on critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving in the face of fast-paced technological advancements.
Learners who can adapt quickly to new circumstances will be better to succeed in this environment, where there is no longer a set path for learning.
Collaborative Learning
One thing that is certain for future learners is that they will need to be able to work in collaborative learning environments. The use of technology will see increased emphasis on tools such as social media and cloud-based collaboration systems. Greater emphasis will also be placed on social learning, ensuring a safe environment where learners can voice their opinions without fear of judgment.
Learners who are already familiar with these tools will be well-prepared for the future of education, where collaboration is helping to solve problems and innovate in creative new ways.
Sustainable Learning
The future of education will also see a more significant effort placed on sustainable forms of energy. To cut down on their carbon footprint, many educational institutions are looking at ways to become more energy efficient.
As technology continues to advance and robotics is increasing in popularity in the workplace, it’s hoped that learners will demand a greener workforce.
The automation of workforces in industries such as food and beverage will reduce energy use. As schools seek to emulate this system, increased focus will be on education that prioritizes sustainable learning methods.
The future of education will bring a range of changes, from the way we access knowledge to the technologies that impact what we can learn and how we go about learning it. These trends will only continue to increase in the coming years and will require new forms of learning and thinking for learners to adapt.
