What is the future of learning?
What does the future of learning look like? Will it resemble anything we know or use today?
A century ago, few people could have imagined some of the advancements in learning technologies we have and use today. Over the last 20 years alone, the landscape of technology and education have grown by leaps and bounds.
For instance, our global utilization of email, Skype, and WebEx have allowed us to communicate, conduct business, and establish as well as maintain ties all over the world. These platforms also allow for file sharing, classroom instruction even for qualifications such as a business degree, and vital negotiations between or among multiple parties.
As a result, it has broadened our educational horizons and expanded our abilities to communicate and/or conduct business beyond all expectations.
The nature of classrooms is changing
In this ever-evolving age, these technological advancements are changing the nature of the classroom, how teachers teach, and students learn. Content and educational resources are more readily accessible and engaging than ever.
When we consider the future of education, will we eventually live in a world where learning is primarily interactive and everyone has access to equal education? Could we live in a world where learning is individualized and every student has the opportunity to maximize the benefits from the learning experience?
Maybe so, especially if technology continues to evolve at such a rapid and impressive pace.
The possibilities in elearning have grown exponentially
As education has grown and expanded over the generations, the inclusion of various socioeconomic groups in the educational matrix has improved. Technology has expanded too. Initially, computers were not only removed from the classroom but most homes as well.
However, as the internet has broadened our horizons and expanded around the globe, our ability to interact, communicate, and the possibilities in elearning have grown exponentially.
We are no longer in the age of simple web tutorials or multiple choice testing online to demonstrate skills and/or knowledge. While these modalities still exist and are used readily, our abilities to educate, elucidate, and inform the global community have far exceeded these tasks in today’s world.
If we are able to achieve these tasks today, just imagine what our capabilities could be in 50, 60, or 75 years from now?
Drones are being developed now that could serve as personal tutors, assistants, and/or instructors in the future. We might not ever require a personal computer, tablet, or smartphone 50 years from now. Perhaps, we will all have our own personal drones or droids, which will function as an all-in-one, self-sustaining communication system.
The future of learning won’t resemble anything we know today
What does the future of learning look like? It is hard to say for certain. However, with the rapid pace of technological advancement, it is safe to say it will not resemble anything we know or use today.
Just like 100 years ago, few could have imagined some of the advancements in learning technologies we have and utilize today, the same will likely be true in the future. The landscape of technology and education continues to grow by leaps and bounds.
As a result, it has broadened our educational horizons and expanded our abilities to communicate and/or conduct business beyond all expectations.
This will only continue to be the case in the future.
Lee Brenner is a freelance writer for the iNLP Center, which trains professionals in life coaching and neuro-linguistic programming certification.
Photo by Feliphe Schiarolli
