Importance of Learning for Connected Education

Educators today are commending the need for connectivity across the world, and for the very purpose, the classrooms are equipped with laptops, tablets, Smartboards, and many other tools for education. However, if the implementation of such technology indeed and profoundly benefits students is a question being raised. There are also individuals who are wary of technology and connectivity. And, cybersecurity breaches comprising hacking and identity theft have culminated in an intense fear of using social media.

Leaders and researchers such as Michael Fullan, John Hattie, and Larry Cuban underline the notion that beyond just using technology, how we use it and social media in the classroom for learning is essential.

As per Fullan, technology has been a wrong driver negatively impacting education because of the way it is used and consequently, the focus should be on learning and not on the tools. Hattie and Cuban ask why the technology revolution is not transforming education yet despite today's schools having desktop computers, iPads, smartphones, the Cloud with fast, available, cheap Wi-Fi, and terabytes of information available to students who are technologically aware. Today's teaching methods that prioritize knowledge consumption instead of encouraging swift, efficient and socially wired connectivity require a change to truly leverage technology advantageously for learning. Technology needs to be perceived as an instrument that supports and enhances learning with connected education.

Schools are spending billions per year on digital content, but for beneficial implementation of the material, the schools require to focus on professional development based on technology, using tools in creative ways to engage students, allowing more teacher voice, and encouraging students to benefit society and the world at large.