The Future of Learning is Hybrid

Our entire world has been flipped on its head during the past year. No matter what sector you work in everyone has been affected. Some in more of a negative way than others; but it is safe to say that we have all had to adapt to a different way of working. The education sector in particular has had to adapt and learn new skills (teaching via Zoom). They had to make sure every learner is getting the most they can out of their education.

Increased Funding For Technology

The digital transformation is here to stay, but one thing that is often overlooked is the division between sectors. With socio-economic barriers in place, this has meant that some children have not been able to access the right equipment or internet connection in order to carry on with their normal learning. Digital learning is going to be a big part of the future. So, it is important that these issues are addressed sooner rather than later.

The first thing that needs to change is that people need to be able to access funding to support students. This will mean everyone is on the same level and are able to access the tools and resources available to them.

Teacher Support

Many teachers have found themselves quickly having to learn how to use Zoom; let alone changing their lesson plans so they can be carried out virtually. Teachers themselves need to be supported through this digital change. This way, it allows them to carry out their role to the best of their ability (without having to worry about technology issues).

If this hybrid way of teaching is to continue, teachers and learners alike will need to get more out of the tools they have been given. Software developers will need to be working on improvements regularly. Learning platforms need to be easily adapted to the changed needs of students and teachers.

Bringing Learning Outcomes Back

One thing that has been lost in the transition to a more agile learning experience is the quality of the learning provided. Focus has instead turned to the learning platforms used and how lessons have been delivered. Now those things have all been ironed out, it is time to turn to ensuring quality content and learning outcomes are at the heart of learning. Just like they always have been.

Keeping students engaged and motivated during online learning is particularly difficult, and lesson plans sometimes have to be adapted accordingly. By giving teachers more support and the tools to do their job well, this will reduce the strain they feel on getting students to participate regularly.

Adding Value To The ‘New Norm’

If implemented properly, and made accessible to everyone, digital learning will certainly add value to the education system. There may well be the development of innovative tools to help teachers. Particularly with administrative tasks, like checking the attendance of students. There is definitely going to be a shift towards creating more bespoke, personalised content for students in order to help improve their level of engagement.

However, teachers need to be kept up to date with these changes. They need to be trained in any new software that does come out. Otherwise they are going to be left behind; whilst other schools and colleges that have been provided with training are going to be leaps ahead (as will their students). It is important to address these things now. If we don’t, we are only going to see an even greater socio-economic impact which is going to affect the lives of many children later on.

At Brooks and Kirk we always like to bring you the latest updates and industry news, so if there is any particular topic that you would like us to address or provide you with more information on, please email training@brooksandkirk.co.uk.