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Tech-Driven Education: Six Solutions For More Effective And Engaging Teaching

The ever-changing economic climate, thanks to technological advancements, has changed the way we teach our students. No longer is the traditional classroom with pencil and paper and dated textbooks the “norm”. There are more innovative approaches to teaching and learning thanks to the modern technologies we have to offer. From remote learning to technological teaching aids, today’s tech solutions have the potential to curate effective learning experiences. Slava Podmurnyi, Forbes Councils Member and CEO and co-founder of Visartech Inc. shares an article that delves deep into the ways technology is transforming the education sector, changing the ways of the modern classroom.

  1. AI-Generated Teachers. “With the integration of AI technology into the education industry, a new learning assistant has emerged. The AI-generated teacher is a technology solution that seamlessly takes over a lesson or course from a human teacher. This technology offers students personalized instruction and feedback based on their unique learning needs and styles. With this type of technology solution, students could build their confidence in speaking and then apply their skills in a real classroom setting with classmates.”
  2. Web-Based Conferencing Tools. “This technology offers fully synchronous and web-based teaching, which has the potential to be more effective than hybrid or dual-mode teaching. With enhanced visibility, interactivity, and breakout rooms, educators can deliver virtual sessions with ease and students can participate in real time.”
  3. 360-Degree Student Analytics. “360-degree student analytics provides a full view of students’ academic, social and behavioral interactions. Educators get data from various sources to understand their students’ needs and challenges better. With this view, educational institutions and online learning platforms can offer personalized study plans that are more effective than traditional teaching methods.”
  4. Zero-Trust Security. “With sensitive data such as student records and financial information at risk, it is essential to implement effective security measures. Cyberattacks in the education sector rose by 44% in 2022, likely due to the transition toward remote learning and the increased use of online education platforms. As a result, the education industry has become a prime target for cybercriminals. However, implementing zero-trust security measures could significantly minimize the risk of data breaches and cyberattacks. The zero-trust security model works on the idea that we should never automatically trust anyone or anything, and always check to make sure they are safe.”
  5. 3D-Powered Brain Breaks. “Studies have shown that it is nearly impossible to study for extended periods without taking breaks. In fact, a recent survey found that 91% of teachers believed that incorporating Brain Break video segments improved their students’ focus and concentration. To make these breaks more engaging and effective, 3-D technology can be helpful. For example, 3-D puzzle games or 3-D break journeys might offer an enjoyable and immersive experience for students.”
  6. Smart Campus. “A smart campus refers to an advanced technological infrastructure that leverages the internet of things (IoT) and other digital technologies to improve the operational efficiency of educational institutions. The technology solution is designed to automate processes, enhance communication and connectivity, and optimize energy management. In recent years, a growing number of universities and colleges have started to adopt smart campus solutions.”

The next generation and beyond will adapt a more digitized learning environment, and Podmurnyi insists we stay ahead of the curve right now. Communicating and speaking with the language of today’s students is essential for a more engaged and motivated classroom. However, he notes, we must understand that technology only enhances learning. Great educators provide the great teaching and motivation to their students in their classroom. We need to combine technology and excellent teaching to inspire students in their learning experience.

 

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The Top 5 Education Trends In 2023

The modern classroom looks very different than how we spent our time in traditional classroom setups. Many education systems have embraced the available technology to make learning more interactive, current, and accessible. Bernard Marr, international best-selling author, popular keynote speaker, futurist, and a strategic business & technology advisor, shares an article on Forbes about the educational trends we should see in 2023 and beyond.

Artificial Intelligence. “Artificial Intelligence (AI), described as the most transformative technology of the 21st century, is reshaping every industry and field of human activity, including education. According to UNESCO, AI has the potential to help tackle some of the toughest challenges in education today, including addressing inequalities in the way schooling is provided around the world and improving access to knowledge globally. However, it also creates challenges of its own – with effort required to ensure that the rollout of this highly disruptive technology is done in a way that is fair and doesn’t itself contribute to those inequalities.”

Remote, Online, and Hybrid Learning. “The global Covid-19 pandemic forced schools, universities, and course providers to develop the capabilities to deliver education at a distance. But even before this, a revolution was taking place in the domain of online learning, with massive online open courses (MOOCs) exploding in popularity. In schools, remote and online learning means that educators can reach students no matter how isolated their communities are. This could mark a huge step forward in providing equality of access to education in a world where nearly 270 million children do not go to school due to living in remote or rural locations.”

Not Just College. “In 2023, high schools will increase resources dedicated to preparing students for future paths that lead to places other than traditional college courses. Vocational and technical courses teaching a diverse range of skill sets are likely to become more popular as schools work with employers to develop new solutions to problems caused by the skills gap… As the demands of the new labor market shift away from seeking purely college-educated graduates and towards developing a workforce with the necessary skills, we can expect to see this change in the future.”

Virtual and Augmented Reality. “Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are two forms of extended reality (XR) that are becoming increasingly important within education systems. VR allows users to step into a virtual world, and there are a vast and growing number of “experiences” that let us do everything from step back in time and experiencing history through our own eyes to training for difficult and dangerous tasks such as conducting repairs in hazardous environments. Augmented reality still requires a device (e.g., a phone, tabled, or a headset) but is different from VR, as it involves superimposing computer-generated images onto what the user is actually seeing. The advantage here is that it can provide real-time information – for example, warning a trainee in a manufacturing environment that a piece of machinery may be dangerous. This is possible thanks to computer vision algorithms that analyze the images captured by cameras in the headset. In schools, AR textbooks are becoming available that contain images, and models that “come alive” when looked at through a smartphone camera, enabling students to get a closer, more in-depth look at anything from ancient Roman architecture to the inner workings of the human body.”

Soft Skills and STEM. “Soft skills include communication skills, teamworking, creative thinking, interpersonal problem-solving, relationship management, and conflict resolution. They will become increasingly important in a world where AI takes on many of our routine and mundane technical responsibilities. According to HR experts, soft skills are increasingly important to company success but far harder to measure and assess than “hard skills” such as mathematics, engineering, and computer programming. In 2023 we will see STEM education placing a growing emphasis on these vital skills, as well as increased efforts when it comes to measuring and assessing organizational capabilities in this area.”

 

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Tips & Tricks in Configuration Console

Learn how to customize the user experience in all your Landmark applications with the Configuration Console.  We’ll show you how to create user fields, how to bring data from a related business class into a form, and more!

 

 

 

The Five Biggest Education And Training Technology Trends In 2022

The education sector has significantly changed over the past few decades. Yet, the push for a more digitized learning environment didn’t get tested until the COVID-19 forced students into remote learning. Now, even as many schools have returned to on campus learning, the “Education  Technology”, or EdTech environment has found a semi-permanent place in the education space. According to Forbes, the value of the educational technology (EdTech) sector is forecast to grow to $680 million by 2027. Much of this, Forbes says, will be due to mobile technology, cloud services and virtual reality creating new possibilities for accessible, immersive learning. International best-selling author, keynote speaker and business expert Bernard Marr shares an article on Forbes highlighting some of the most important EdTech trends affecting the education sector over the next 12 months:

Remote learning. “The coronavirus pandemic forced many schools and colleges to switch to a remote learning model. E-learning offers school-age students the possibility of learning subjects and skills that are not taught locally, while for those in higher education, the benefits include allowing them to more easily fit learning around other commitments such as work or family responsibilities.”

Lifelong learning (subscription services). “The employment landscape today is vastly different from the one our grandparents or even parents were accustomed to. The rapid pace of technological advancement means skills can quickly become outdated, and developing new competencies on an ongoing basis is a vital strategy for career and business success.”

Immersive learning technology – AR and VR. “Extended reality (XR) – which covers virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR), promises to create more immersive and engaging learning opportunities. This is essential in an age when it’s said that attention spans are dropping, and we’re becoming accustomed to absorbing information in ultra-fast, bite-sized, and attention-grabbing chunks.”

AI and automation in the classroom. “Artificial intelligence (AI) will impact every area of human activity during 2022, and education is certainly no exception. The ongoing deployment of software powered by self-learning algorithms, capable of becoming better and better at whatever task it is assigned to, will have far-reaching consequences; as well as automating repetitive aspects of educators’ work such as grading papers, it will be used to provide more personalized forms of education or remote learning.”

Nano-learning. “Nano-learning describes a new EdTech concept where we can get ultra-bite-sized lessons exactly when and where we need them. Under this paradigm, it doesn’t matter if we don’t even remember what we’ve learned for more than 10 minutes because when we need to use the knowledge again, we can simply re-learn it! Nano-learning will undoubtedly grow in popularity during 2022 as it fits with society’s need for ways of passing on knowledge and proficiency that are instantaneous, modular, and even addictive!”

 

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Atlanta Public Schools Selects Infor

Atlanta Public Schools has chosen to upgrade its current single-tenant system to Infor CloudSuite™ Public Sector. Being one the largest school districts in Georgia, with the help of  Infor’s cloud-based solutions, the district will have the ability to apply automated workflows and role-based security to strengthen access to sensitive data. It will also allow its stakeholders to access data anytime, anywhere quickly and securely with Infor Go®, a native mobile application that provides a centralized access-point for Infor and proprietary apps with single sign-on (SSO). Per the press release, with Infor CloudSuite Public Sector, Atlanta Public Schools will help ensure that critical business functions continue to run smoothly and securely, while expanding cloud-based learning and performance management to deliver better and safer student and teacher experiences.

 

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How Technology is Revolutionizing Different Industry Sectors

Technology has shaped our lives more than ever. From the early days of the first mobile phone to a tablet that can do the work of a phone and computer at the palm of your hands, these developments have revolutionized our way of living. Not only that, in the world of business technology has changed the way we go about our daily operations. It’s no secret that technology has improved business processes and enhanced customer experiences.  Analytics Insight® shares an interesting article on how technology has impacted almost every industry. Below are some notable sectors that have greatly been impacted with the latest tech innovations:

Medicine and healthcare industry – “Medical devices and equipment are constantly being worked on and improved. They’re getting better and better when it comes to improving the health and recovery time of patients. Novelties in genetic testing and medical imaging have significantly improved detection, diagnosis, and treatments. On top of that, we have seen considerable advances in lab tech gadgets.”

Fashion – “Various apps have redefined the way people buy clothes, shoes, and accessories. For instance, there’s an app that allows users to upload photos of clothing items they love and it then shows them where to buy visually similar items in a matter of moments. Moreover, companies have even managed to create virtual fitting rooms. These allow people to better visualize how items might fit them and provide the stores with information on buyers’ preferences to help with personalization.”

Finances and Banking Industry – “The finances and banking industry is becoming more streamlined and efficient thanks to tech innovations and new software tools. Online banking is more present than ever and some even call it the new normal. Paying with a few taps on your mobile screen is now something considered a common routine.”

Education Industry – “Education technology (EdTech) involves the advancement and application of tools to facilitate learning. Educational facilities are seeing a huge transformation where it is no longer required for people to sit in a classroom to learn. There are numerous open online courses featured on platforms such as Udemy or Google Digital Garage. Basically, people can learn just about anything anywhere.”

We need to continue to find ways for technology to help improve our businesses processes. Innovation should be embraced and not turned away in order to be successful in the ever-evolving digital world.

 

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How To Use Educational Technology Humanely Post-Pandemic

The past year’s pandemic was a true rollercoaster – sudden shock, anxiety, and nervousness at the start. Then as months went by and we got used to this ‘new normal’, things started settling and people accepted change. Now here we are a year later and closer to ‘the old normal’.  However, in areas such as education, students and families have gotten the hang of remote learning. What will happen when the pandemic will be completely over? Will it be as simple as going back to in-person school and remote learning wouldn’t be needed anymore? While we miss human interaction, there were no doubt some positives to working/learning from home. Mike McShane, director of national research at EdChoice, writes a Forbes article sharing three different methods of teaching post-pandemic with some of the best educational technology models.

The Prenda Model leverages technology to quickly, efficiently, and effectively deliver academic content. This frees up more time for collaborative, project-based work. McShane notes the nice balance between personalized learning and collaborative, project-based work. Prenda schools, he explains, offers the best of computer-based instruction (self-pacing, meeting students where they are, allowing for different students in the same class to be learning at different levels, etc.) and using its efficiency to create space for exciting, fulfilling, engaging, and substantive collaborative work.

The Hybrid Homeschool Model devotes to one learning modality or another. This type of model has students work 2-3 days per week with personalized learning software, and spends the rest of the week in school to discuss their lessons, work on projects, play sports and other extra curricular activities done in person. McShane’s EdChoice discovered via polls that there is a huge favor for this school modal. This hybrid model poses opportunities for schools to use facilities, faculty, and staff more efficiently. It could also drive down the cost of education while at the same time providing a richer, more effective school experience, McShane notes.

The Lumen Verum Model, inspired by the school in Boston with the same name, limits daily screen time and has a rich set of in-person experiences for students. However, the fact that they will be able to bring passionate, knowledgeable international experts to speak on topics will offer students a unique experience. McShane expresses technology is a tool that educators can use to extend their reach, to help students access things that they otherwise might not be able to in the traditional classroom, to customize and personalize the offerings available to students, and to get through things faster than traditional methods.

Even with cases going down and vaccinations are helping to bring the numbers down, this past year has proved that education technology could be the new normal, and schools are going to need to know how to work with hybrid or fully virtual learning.

 

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3 ways data analytics is enhancing education technology

While remote learning isn’t new, it has become the new normal during this pandemic. Data analytics has greatly aided in remote education since data not  not only helps organizations better understand their users but also increase operational efficiency. An article shared by Study International describes 3 ways that data analytics is enhancing education technology. These insights were analyzed by Caroline Lewis of data analytics organization Tiger and Peter Croft of education technology company Tribal Group.

Data analytics help review, update software. “With regular usage, schools can tap into data analytics to show them the returns on investing in this software. This way, they are able to better plan digital resources to meet the needs of their teachers and students. The result? Improved spending and user experience for all.”

Data analysis gauges student engagement. “Administrators monitor student “touchpoints” based on how much time they spend in the virtual learning environment or when they submit their coursework. Understanding these learning analytics will give them a clearer picture of student habits, which are transformed into virtual profiles.”

Data can be used to develop predictive models.

“Unique student data can yield significant implications right away. For example, data analytics can identify students who are struggling or at risk, prompting intervention to bring them back on track. Schools and universities can further monitor the long-term efficacy of these initiatives, using the outcomes to better support teachers and students.”

 

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Why Do Schools Need ERP Software?

School management enterprise resource planning (ERP) software platforms has proved to be a valuable place in the education systems operations. With centralized dashboards and streamlined operations that take care of the automation and technological needs, teachers – especially in this pandemic environment – an spend more time teachers and parents and students have easier experiences with their school’s online ERP platforms. Mrudul Modh, chief NetSuite Consultant of VNMT, shares an article on CoFounder Magazine showcasing more reasons why ERP software platforms would greatly benefit schools.

Automation. “ERPs are adept in automating your backend and frontend processes so that you can function with a tremendous amount of efficiency. An ERP platform would help you compile a report of the total amount of expenses you incurred in the last financial year.”

Aids with Prompt Decision Making. “One of the critical highlights of deploying an ERP platform for your school is that it helps with prompt decision making. School management ERP platforms can generate reports in bulk for administrative tasks like admission, fee payment, etc.”

Beneficial for Teachers. “When you have ERP software platform deployed, teachers can get respite from the administrative tasks placed on them. In this manner, they can concentrate on the primary functions at their disposal. From keeping a tab on attendance to uploading report cards, school ERP platforms can perform a vast range of functions.”

Advantageous for Parents. “School ERP systems comprise built-in tools that would foster a significant connection between teachers, students, and parents. Parents can avail real-time tracking of their child’s transportation, too, with ERP systems. So it is quite apparent that ERP systems help in maintaining the educational success of a school.”

Modh also points out that school ERP software platforms can also help with the course management system, which can handle everything from course scheduling to sharing the requirements of the course. School ERP software platform ultimately makes it simpler for everyone using it.

 

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Borders College Makes the Grade with Infor

Infor recently announced that Scotland’s Borders College has upgraded its investment in Infor SunSystems (to 6.4). Implemented remotely by Infor partner Kick ICT, Infor SunSystems will enable Borders to establish a platform for the digital transformation of its finance function. Per the press release, the upgrade will ensure Borders College operates from a fully supported platform, reducing the risk of downtime and costly emergency fixes. It will also enable finance, procurement, HR, health and safety, and other back-office functions with plans to digitalize student-facing programs. Hazel Robertson, Borders College vice-principal for finance and corporate services, says of the upgrade, “We are already looking to share our newly developed best practices with other colleges and look forward to even more collaboration in the future.”

 

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