Schools have remained the same over the past 75 years. Technology is a major part of schools today, with interactive whiteboards replacing traditional chalkboards. The basic concept of the classroom remains the same: the teacher sits at the front, facing rows upon rows of desks that students are behind.
Schools have not changed in many ways over the past century. While some schools may have tried out ‘open-plan’ classroom designs, most schools still use long corridors and traditional classrooms.
The way schools are organized has not changed much. The usual arrangement of children is to be grouped according to age and ability. Many stories from schools have been innovative and creative all over the globe. These schools try something new, often with great results, but they don’t seem to upset the status quo.
Technology has not advanced at such an incredible pace. Many will ask the question: What school should be the future? The idea of using technology to enhance learning is a popular topic. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a big topic these days. Will robots eventually replace teachers?
Technology is rapidly changing and can allow us to do amazing things. So, what will the future look like for schools in 20/30 years?
VIRTUAL SCHOOLROOMS?
It is hot to discuss the extent that today’s schools are ready for their purpose. Many educationalists think that many of the things schools do today are obsolete. This includes losing school days due to illness or bad weather. Dave Townsend was a former teacher in Law and Business. He created a virtual classroom for one of his students, who couldn’t come to school for six months due to an immune problem. Townsend created a virtual classroom that allowed students to log in and view it. This ensured that the student’s learning was not interrupted.
Virtual classrooms could be possible with the current technology and software available.
PART-TIME SCHOOLS?
Remote working has become easy thanks to technology. There are many possibilities that technology offers. No more driving to the office. Many companies already embrace flexible and remote working. This trend will only continue to grow over the next few years and could even extend to education.
The School of the Air in Alice Springs, Australia, offers something similar to its students. Many students live too far from the school to be able to attend school regularly. Students receive their lesson materials via email or postal mail.
We should not underestimate the importance of classroom discussions and social interaction. It is true, however, that students can now create websites and blogs, edit videos and make radio shows, and even interact online with each other.
It could be asked, “Is the traditional classroom obsolete?”
ROBOTS, NOT TEACHERS
Many educationalists believe it is only a matter of time before intelligent machines, or robots, replace teachers in schools.
Teachers will always have a place, but intelligent machines can offer students a more personalized and individual experience.
The government’s education policy will ultimately determine how technology transforms schools in the future. However, technology can potentially transform schools over the next 20-30 years.
