Teaching has changed dramatically over the years thanks to technological advancements. Everything from computers and laptops to projectors and tablets can be found in the modern classroom, so let’s take a closer look at how these mod cons have changed education.

1. Student Performance Tracking

Children go to school to learn, so it makes sense that their understanding of subjects and day-to-day progress is monitored. Improving the communication from school to home has shown to have a positive effect on students learning, and so online communication tools like ParentMail allow teachers to keep parents updated on what is going on in school, behaviour updates and make sure homework is monitored more efficiently.

The great thing about tracking apps is that updates to parents and caregivers can also be given in real-time from the classroom, meaning issues, achievements and areas of weakness can be discussed straight away with caregivers. Moreover, progress updates allow teachers to record specific notes against individuals and classes and inform parents with lesson-specific examples.

2. Webinars And Online Resources

These days, many teachers rely on webinars and other material to improve their professional development and get set for the academic year. Not only that, they can also access a wealth of online resources around a host of subject areas that are perfect for both primary and secondary education.

Example lesson plans, video clips, documentaries and other educational aids can be easily downloaded and used in the classroom where appropriate. The variety of rich media on offer might seem like a modern fad to people who grew up with chalk boards and erasers but it can often keep children entertained for far longer than an old-school textbook.

3. Interactive Whiteboards

Interactive Whiteboards Advanced Teaching

Gone are the days where the teacher stood at the front of the classroom and rattled out a host of information the children must learn. Lessons these days are far more engaging with props like interactive whiteboards helping groups of pupils learn together.

Typically, whiteboards are connected to a computer. The computer’s desktop is then projected onto the board and controlled using a pen, stylus, finger or other gadget.

Everyone can see what’s going on and kids can come to the front of the classroom to play a game, do a sum, draw a picture or anything else relevant to the lesson. Interactive whiteboard material can be found online and is a great teaching aid.

Technology can enhance learning in many ways and makes student/parent communication much smoother. It’s certainly revolutionised the way kids are taught but what does the future have in store? Watch this space…