Advancement in Information Technology has infiltrated every aspect of our social, economic, and spiritual ways of life. More than 75 per cent of the people in the world cannot spend a day without consulting information technology to accomplish one task or another. Of all numerous benefits of modern technology, its efficiency and reliability as a source of information are an invaluable aspect that we have all experienced in length and breadth. This has been the fundamental basis on which information technology has been incepted in education. As we know, learning and education are two continuous processes, which occur either knowingly or unknowingly. High-quality education equips learners with important skills in academic research and applications of a wide range of concepts through technology-based modelling.
The infusion of Information Technology in education has made the learning processes even more efficient, cost-effective, and qualitative. It has made it possible for us to access information from limitless repositories, libraries, and databases from anywhere around the world. No words can actually quantify the immense beauty that Information Technology has added to education. Not only has Information Technology changed our approach to the learning process, but it has also enhanced the education environment through increased efficiency in information delivery. Here are some of the ways through which modern technology has influenced education and the learning process:
- Improved access to diverse educational resources
- Enhanced full-time learning
- Improved learning methods
- Introduction of group learning
Improved Access to Diverse Educational Resources
Advancement in the development of information storage and processing technology gave birth to databases, websites, virtual libraries, e-books, and repositories, among other electronic sources of information. Academicians and scientists took advantage of these technologies to create information sources for any kind of information that one may need to know. These information storage technologies are specially designed to deliver search queries on update information about a particular subject at the click of a button. As a result, learners can access any time type of information they may need at any time, and anywhere as long they have a device that can access the internet service. Moreover, educational databases and libraries allow for borrowing and exchange of learning materials at affordable costs, thus exposing learners to a diverse pool of educational resources. Information Technology has also improved the learning process, thus making it possible for learners to engage their tutors through online forums and electronic mail. This has significantly enriched education and the learning process.
Enhanced Full-time Learning
Information Technology is a timeless resource that is available for learners at all levels of education, irrespective of their location. This has significantly reduced the likelihood of incidences such as school dropouts, since learners can access information from the comfort of their smartphones and PCs at their convenience. This is primarily attributed to learning technologies such as distance learning. Access to education remotely has made it possible for students to gain quality education from overseas countries, thus equipping them with educational skills that are globally competitive. Broadband internet technology has made it possible for students in developing countries to study from prestigious universities in developed countries.
Improved Learning Methods
Advancement in Information Technology has made it possible to create electronic learning resources such as e-books so that learners can freely access educational sites and libraries. Teachers have also incorporated the use of electronic learning resources into their teaching methods since technology makes it possible to distribute one copy of a book or the curriculum to as many students as possible. This has significantly reduced the financial losses in the printing of physical resources and actual loss of books. Moreover, the integration of audio-visual mode of content delivery has revolutionized the way we learn and understand the educational resources. The audio-visual teaching method has made it possible for teachers to illustrate concepts through the use of images and videos to enhance comprehension and retention of concepts. A student who uses augmented reality in the learning process has higher chances of becoming a good essay writer compared to a student who knows nothing about augmented reality. This is due to full-time access to learning resources, tutorials, and assessment tests online.
Introduction of Group Learning
Information technology has made it possible for teachers to implement group lesson delivery methods effectively. Previously, students were placed in environmental groups where every member was required to contribute to the discussions. This greatly impeded the process of learning for shy students who lack proper public expression skills. However, the inception of Information Technology into the classroom experience has allowed the creation of educational forums through which students can engage in productive online discussions where they can freely express themselves from the comfort of their residences or even when travelling. Moreover, online forums have made it possible for students in distant countries to attend the same classroom, share similar course materials, and earn similar degrees.
