The education ecosystem is ever evolving. However, the pace
of change the world has seen in last decade has been the most transformational.
Digital technology is changing landscapes in every aspect of business, politics
and social life. Digitization is the future and schools are embracing the trend
right where it matters the most; to the future citizens of the world. Teaching
and learning aids are no longer restricted to text books and assignments in
physical form but converted to electronic modes on personal computers, laptops
and ipads. Some schools are quick to adapt to technology while some are
gradually catching up.
The Edutech Asia Conference
The Edutech Asia conference in Singapore is held annually
that enables key educators and pioneers in the region to gather, exchange ideas
on innovations in the education space. The 2016 conference was concluded in
November and received over 2000 policy makers, educational institutes and their
representatives who are changing the face of classrooms through innovative
design and technology. The CEO of The Canadian International School (CIS), Mr.
Shane Armstrong gave the opening speech at the conference, focusing on the
changes that technology has brought about in classrooms and where this is
likely to take us ahead in future. CIS is one of the most reputed and
multi-cultural international schools in Singapore and the address was a part of
the K-12 Ed Leaders Forum.
Canadian International School
Canadian International School, Singapore is at the forefront
of promoting digital technology on campus. Apart from offering the universally
accepted IB curriculum and the very innovative STEAM teaching philosophy, the
school has a well-structured policy on digital literacy. Personal Ipads and
Macbooks are used in classrooms right from grade 4. Even at earlier, primary
school and kindergarten level, technology is introduced through multi-media
classrooms and common electronic devices. The aim is to bring up technology
savvy students who are well versed and ready for future endeavors; all this
while promoting healthy, safe and ethical use of electronic devices.
Early introduction of technology is
not a threat
A rigorous academic curriculum isn’t enough. It needs to be
augmented through technology which makes it more effective and relevant to the
world of today and of the future. When it comes to the digitization of teaching
methods at schools, it must not be considered a threat to creativity and
learning as a whole. Technology in the right measure and under guidance
(especially for young children) can amplify their learning experience. An
in-depth research and ease to access of information can only mean positive
things in the classroom. Rote learning and memorization are no longer in vogue,
but understanding concepts and their application in the real world is more
important.
Technology is the reality and it makes a lot of sense for
educational institutes to make students familiar with it as soon as possible.
The 21st-century mindset can be developed only when the young
population is comfortable with it and can thrive in a modern workplace that
will have its own unique challenges.
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