While You Were Sleeping: EdTech News from the Other Side of the World
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The Digital Education Revolution: 34 Innovative Tools Driving the Future of Learning
Brief summary:
Analysis of 34 popular educational tools with over 1 million monthly searches
Includes a variety of tools, from math games to language learning apps to coding platforms.
Evaluation based on 15 key criteria including participation, accuracy, and pedagogical approach
Many tools are free or offer free versions to promote equal access to education.
Game-based learning emerges as a powerful trend in educational technology
The changing landscape of education
In recent years, we have witnessed a major shift in the world of education. The lines between traditional schooling and innovative learning methods are blurring, and more and more families are embracing homeschooling, supplemental learning, and personalized learning experiences. At the heart of this change is the rapid advancement of educational technology.
A recent article by Manisha Snoyer profiles 34 of the most popular educational tools today, each of which receives over 1 million searches per month in the U.S. alone, and up to 89 million searches worldwide, a clear indication of the importance of digital tools in modern education.
These tools were not chosen simply because they were popular. Each tool was evaluated on 15 key criteria, including originality, engagement, accuracy, user-friendliness, pedagogical approach, homeschool suitability, learning-centeredness, personalization, special education support, and value. Negative factors such as boredom, addiction, violence, unhealthy competition, and excessive focus on school standards were also considered.
Now let’s take a closer look at these 34 tools:
1.
Roblox (Educational Value Score: 64/150): A platform that fosters creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration. You can learn coding, game design, and digital citizenship through hands-on learning.
2.
Kahoot! (67/150): A game-based learning platform that can be used in both classroom and remote learning environments. It offers an interactive learning experience in the form of a quiz.
3.
Google Classroom (71/150): A free web service for schools, non-profits, and individuals that simplifies file sharing between teachers and students.
4.
Blooket (62/150): An online platform that offers a variety of games and quizzes to make learning fun and interactive.
5.
Quillbot (59/100): An AI-based sentence restructuring tool that helps students improve their writing skills.
6.
Minecraft (76/100): A sandbox game that fosters creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration. Minecraft: Education Edition in particular includes classroom-ready tools and lesson plans for a variety of subjects.
7.
Google Earth (84/100): A great educational tool that provides a unique and immersive learning experience across a variety of topics.
8.
Cool Math Games (52/100): A variety of games that make learning math fun and engaging.
9.
Epic Games (60/100): Especially for providing tools that foster creativity, problem-solving, and advanced technical skills, especially through the Unreal Engine.
10.
Crazy Games (61/100): Offers a wide variety of online games, including some with educational value.
11.
Duolingo (61/100): A gamified approach to language learning. Popular for its user-friendliness and engaging nature.
12.
Snake Game (56/100): A classic game that improves strategic thinking and reaction time.
13.
Prodigy (56/100): A gamified math learning platform that's effective at engaging students and building their confidence in math.
14.
Sudoku (72/100): A number puzzle game that improves logical thinking, problem-solving skills, and memory.
15.
Epic! (69/100): An extensive digital library for children that promotes reading and literacy.
16.
Quizlet (64/100): Highly rated by homeschoolers for providing an interactive learning tool.
17.
Scratch (78/100): A free programming language and online community developed by MIT that lets kids create their own interactive stories, games, and animations.
18.
Geometry Dash (54/100): A rhythm-based game where you have to avoid obstacles to get through levels. It’s engaging and unique, but can be addictive and frustrating.
19.
Gimkit (62/100): A gamified learning platform where students can earn virtual money by answering questions correctly.
20.
Quizizz (76/100): A highly interactive and engaging platform for creating and participating in quizzes.
21.
Google News (57/100): A useful tool for teaching media literacy and critical thinking by aggregating news from a variety of sources.
22.
Khan Academy (61/100): Free, comprehensive educational content on a wide range of subjects. Video-based lessons and interactive practice problems support learning.
23.
Desmos (68/100): An effective and innovative tool for teaching math, especially suited to homeschooling environments.
24.
ABCya (73/100): Educational games and activities for elementary school students. Excellent for engagement, accuracy, and homeschooling.
25.
NYT Wordle (67/100): A daily word puzzle game that's great for improving vocabulary and critical thinking.
26.
Mathway (69/100): Offers a unique ability to solve math problems using camera input, and covers topics ranging from basic arithmetic to advanced calculus.
27.
Math Playground (55/100): A variety of interactive math games for K-6 students.
28.
Schoology (62/100): Provides a comprehensive and versatile learning management system (LMS).
29.
2048 (64/100): A sliding puzzle game where you combine number tiles to create a 2048 tile. Helps develop strategic thinking and planning skills.
30.
Drift Boss (50/100): A fun car drifting game, but with limited educational value.
31.
Nearpod (55/100): Unique mix of interactivity, engagement, and accurate content to deliver a dynamic, personalized learning experience.
32.
IXL (74/100): Provides personalized instruction in math, language arts, science, and social studies. Provides comprehensive content aligned with the school curriculum.
33.
Nitro Type (62/100): A unique and engaging approach to teaching typing skills through a competitive racing game.
34.
Delta Math (82/100): A comprehensive math program that balances rigorous educational content with user-friendly features.
One notable feature of these tools is that many of them are free or offer free versions, which is a huge help in promoting equal access to education. For example, Prodigy offers all of its educational content and teacher tools for free, with an optional premium membership that enhances gameplay.
Another notable trend is the rise of game-based learning. Tools like Prodigy, Minecraft, and Roblox offer an attractive alternative for children who are bored with traditional learning methods. These tools make learning a fun and engaging experience, stimulating children’s natural curiosity and desire to learn.
However, these tools are not perfect. Some tools contain elements that can be addictive or excessively competitive. Some tools may also lack support for students with special needs. Therefore, it is important for parents and educators to take a balanced approach when using these tools, selecting tools that are tailored to each child’s individual needs.
Conclusion
Advances in educational technology are redefining the future of learning. These 34 popular educational tools are not just trends, they represent a fundamental shift in education. They are making learning a more accessible, personalized, and engaging experience.
These tools should not be thought of as a complete replacement for traditional teaching methods. Rather, they serve to complement and enhance existing teaching methods. The best results are obtained when these innovative tools are combined in a balanced way with traditional teaching methods.
Looking at these 34 tools, we can see some key trends:
1.
Gamification: Tools like Prodigy, Minecraft, and Roblox are incorporating game elements into learning to increase student engagement.
2.
Adaptive learning: Platforms like Prodigy and IXL deliver content tailored to each student’s level and progress.
3.
Multisensory learning: Google Earth, ABCya, and more provide learning experiences that engage multiple senses, including sight, hearing, and touch.
4.
Collaborative learning: Google Classroom, Scratch, and more encourage collaboration and idea sharing among students.
5.
Real-time feedback: Tools like Quizizz and Kahoot! provide immediate feedback to enhance learning.
6.
Cross-platform accessibility: Most tools are designed to be accessible across multiple devices, so you can learn anytime, anywhere.
These trends point the way to the future of education. Education will become more personalized, interactive, and flexible. As AI and big data technologies advance, learning analytics will become more sophisticated, allowing us to accurately identify each student’s strengths and weaknesses and provide a personalized learning path.
However, we must also be mindful of the possible negative consequences of these technological advancements. Increased use of digital devices, privacy issues, and the digital divide are issues that must be continuously monitored and addressed.
It is also important to remember that no matter how great these tools are, they cannot replace the role of teachers and parents. Technology is just a tool, and it requires the wisdom and guidance of educators to use it effectively.
In conclusion, these 34 educational tools are making the future of learning bright and exciting. They are making learning more accessible, fun, and effective. Innovative educational tools will continue to emerge in the future, further changing the paradigm of education.
Our challenge is to use these tools wisely to create educational environments where all learners can reach their full potential. When technology and human wisdom are harmoniously combined, we can build a truly innovative and inclusive education system. This is the bright future that the digital education revolution presents to us.
Google Classroom Takes a Bold Leap: 16 New Add-ons to Unleash a New Era of Education
Brief summary:
16 new add-on partners added to Google Classroom
Teachers can access a variety of educational tools directly within Classroom
Partnering with leading edtech companies including Kami, Quizizz, and Prodigy Education
Nonprofits like ReadWorks are also partners.
New add-ons available through Google Workspace Marketplace
Opening a new chapter in educational technology
The world of education technology is undergoing another major transformation. Google recently announced a major update to Google Classroom, which promises to provide educators and students with a more integrated and effective learning environment. The centerpiece of this update is the addition of 16 new add-on partners, which are expected to dramatically expand the capabilities of Google Classroom.
According to Google’s announcement, teachers will now be able to access a variety of their preferred educational tools directly within Classroom. This is not just a convenience improvement, but a transformation in the way they teach. Instead of wasting time switching between multiple platforms, teachers will be able to use all the tools they need in one integrated environment.
The partners participating in this expansion are also noteworthy. Leading edtech companies such as Kami, Quizizz, and Prodigy Education are participating, so you will be able to experience the latest educational technology trends directly in Google Classroom. Of particular note is that a mission-driven non-profit organization such as ReadWorks is also included in this partnership. This shows that Google is actively working with organizations that aim to improve the quality of education, not just for-profit companies.
New add-ons are easily accessible and installable through the Google Workspace Marketplace, allowing teachers to quickly and easily find the tools they need and integrate them into their classrooms. With a wide range of educational tools available, including Boom, Discovery Education, Edia, Educaplay, Screencastify, Writable, Paper, Zanichelli editore, Typing, and Education Perfect, it looks like there’s room for almost any subject and learning style.
These major updates go beyond mere technological advancements to reflect Google’s vision to fundamentally change education. Integrated learning environments can help teachers be more effective and provide students with richer, more personalized learning experiences. For example, by integrating Prodigy Education’s gamified math learning tools directly into Classroom, teachers will be able to more effectively monitor and support students’ math progress.
This update is also a good example of the collaborative growth of the education technology ecosystem. The way a giant technology company like Google collaborates with edtech companies of various sizes to create a better education platform can be seen as suggesting the future direction of education technology development.
Conclusion
This expansion of Google Classroom is more than just adding features; it’s a major milestone for the future of education. The addition of 16 new add-on partners will not only provide teachers and students with richer and more effective learning tools, but will also foster collaboration and innovation across the education technology industry.
Now, educators have the freedom to use a variety of cutting-edge educational tools within a single platform. This will allow them to spend less time preparing lessons and more time interacting with their students. Students will also enjoy a more personalized and effective learning experience.
Google's announcement shows that the future of education technology lies beyond simple technological advancements, but rather in collaboration, integration, and user-centered innovation. It will be interesting to see how the education ecosystem centered around Google Classroom will develop in the future and what changes it will bring to the actual educational field.
The digital revolution in education is just beginning. This expansion of Google Classroom is an important step in that revolution. We need to watch with anticipation and interest how these innovative tools will transform classrooms and enhance students’ learning experiences.
ISTE 2024: The New Wave of Educational Technology
Brief summary:
ISTE 2024 to showcase a range of innovative educational technologies
Key trends highlighted include AI, digital citizenship, and hybrid learning
New tools focused on increasing student engagement and personalizing learning
Unveiling a number of effective solutions for teachers and school administrators
Providing integrated solutions through collaboration between educational technology companies
ISTE 2024 Drawing the Future of Education
The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) 2024 conference in Denver, USA, is opening up new horizons in education technology. The event showcased a range of innovative technologies and approaches, from AI to digital citizenship to hybrid learning.
One of the most notable trends is the introduction of AI technology into the education field. Samsung Electronics introduced the AI-based 'Samsung AI Class Assistant', which automatically summarizes class content and generates quizzes. This allows teachers to reduce the time spent preparing classes and focus more on guiding students.
Improving student engagement has been a major focus for many companies. LEGO Education released data on the learning disengagement crisis among U.S. students, emphasizing the importance of experiential learning. Capstone’s PebbleGo also attracted attention with new tools for active learning.
The importance of digital citizenship education has also been highlighted. ISTE and ASCD have released a new ‘Digital Citizenship Lesson’ resource aimed at helping students grow into healthy digital citizens.
Discussions about hybrid learning have also been active. Many students and families have experienced the benefits of online or hybrid learning since the pandemic, and schools are looking for ways to meet diverse learning needs.
Tech companies also announced new products. LG Electronics showed off a range of products, from classroom displays to Chromebooks and projectors, while BenQ unveiled the BenQ Board Pro RP04, the first interactive display fully integrated with Google Mobile Services.
There were also innovations in education management. SmartPass improved student location tracking to enhance school safety and attendance management, while LocknCharge introduced the FUYL smart locker system to make device management more efficient.
Of particular note is the collaboration among several educational technology organizations. Seven organizations, including 1EdTech, CAST, and CoSN, have collaborated to develop a common set of metrics for evaluating educational technology tools. This is an important step forward to help schools and educators more easily and reliably select and implement educational technology.
Conclusion
ISTE 2024 was a stage that simultaneously showed the present and future of educational technology. Trends such as AI, digital citizenship, and hybrid learning are expected to significantly change the educational field in the future. In particular, various tools focusing on improving student engagement and personalized learning are suggesting the direction of future education.
However, we should not expect that these technological innovations will solve all problems. The role of teachers and the importance of human interaction still need to be emphasized. In addition, eliminating the digital divide and providing equal learning opportunities to all students are issues that we must continue to consider.
As ISTE 2024 shows, the future of education lies in the harmonious combination of technology and humans. A balanced approach that focuses on the needs and growth of each student while effectively utilizing innovative technology tools will be necessary. It will be very interesting to see how the various technologies and ideas introduced at this conference are implemented in actual educational settings and what changes they will bring.
Limitations of AI Tutors: The Balance Between Silence and Conversation
Brief summary:
AI tutors show limitations in not knowing when to start a conversation
Unlike human tutors, AI cannot detect students’ nonverbal cues
Currently, AI tutors work in a way that they only respond when the student requests it.
Edtech companies tend to overlook or ignore these limitations of AI.
Multimodal input technologies still struggle to completely replace the intuition of human tutors
AI Tutor: When Should I Talk?
AI tutors are one of the hottest topics in education technology right now. While many startups are jumping into the AI tutor market, most are focusing on superficial differences such as user interfaces and system prompts. However, Dan Meyer recently pointed out a more fundamental problem that AI tutors face in his blog 'Mathworlds'.
This is the core problem raised by Meyer: "AI tutors don't know when to stop being silent and start talking."
Most current AI tutor systems only respond when a student presses a “reply” button, which is far from an effective way to tutor. “Two of the most important decisions a good tutor makes are a) when to start talking, and b) what to start talking about,” Meyer explains.
Human tutors can identify when intervention is needed, even if the student doesn’t explicitly ask for it. This is especially important because many students often don’t ask for help when they need it.
Meyer asked teachers on Twitter, “When do you decide to step in and say something or ask a question in a one-on-one tutoring situation?” The responses included a variety of signals that AI currently can’t detect:
"If a student seems hesitant, I ask them to share their thoughts as we work."
"I intervene when it seems like students are just guessing what to do next."
"Wait for that moment of hesitation where you begin to realize that something is wrong with the student's approach."
"When you see that 'deer-in-the-headlights' look, you intervene."
"I intervene when I no longer see the 'cogs turning in the student's head'—when I feel the student is stuck in a way that is not helping."
“All these signals are completely undetectable by chatbots,” Meyer emphasizes.
Even recent multimodal input techniques from OpenAI haven’t yet fully solved this problem. “Can multimodal input detect ‘the deer-in-the-headlights look,’ ‘the gears in your head stop turning,’ ‘the moment of realization that something is wrong,’ ‘the moment of hesitation,’ etc.?” asks Meyer.
He also asks, "Can multimodal input help us understand whether a student's pause is a sign of thinking or a struggle, and whether that struggle is productive or not?"
Conclusion
AI tutor technology is rapidly advancing, but it is still far from completely replacing the intuition and judgment of human tutors. As Meyer points out, good tutoring is more than just answering questions. It requires the ability to read students’ subtle signals, intervene at appropriate times, and distinguish between productive and unproductive difficulties.
Current AI tutors are not able to fully replicate these complex interactions. Edtech companies should recognize these limitations and look for ways to combine the strengths of AI and human tutors.
In Meyer's words, "If technology ever emerges that can communicate and educate humans at that level, it will completely reshape society and improving education will become one of our least important concerns."
Advances in AI tutor technology will continue, but true innovation will come when we acknowledge the limitations of technology and harmoniously combine human intuition with the strengths of AI. Educators, technologists, and policymakers will have to continually strive to find this balance.
AI readiness in UK education: The gap between awareness and implementation
Brief summary:
Educate Ventures Research assesses UK education institutions’ AI readiness
Conduct self-assessment in five dimensions (AI awareness, use, policy, safety, and ethics)
Most organizations understand the concept of AI but lack confidence in its practical application
62% have AI-related leadership, but only 32% run AI training programs
The need for a systematic approach and support for the use of AI in education is highlighted.
How prepared are UK education institutions for the AI era?
As artificial intelligence (AI) technology rapidly spreads throughout society, the importance of AI in the education sector is growing day by day. Against this backdrop, Educate Ventures Research conducted an AI benchmarking self-assessment targeting schools, trusts, and universities in the UK. This assessment provides important data for understanding the level of AI and digital literacy in educational institutions and exploring future development directions.
The evaluation was conducted in five dimensions: AI awareness, AI use, AI policy and leadership, AI safety, and AI ethics. Looking at the composition of participating institutions, state schools accounted for the largest proportion at 48%, followed by private schools at 29.5%, universities at 8.2%, and other institutions at 14.3%. This shows that various educational institutions across the UK are interested in AI.
The gap between AI perception and utilization
One of the most striking findings from the survey is the gap between understanding AI and its practical use. While most respondents said they understood the general concept of AI, they were significantly less confident in using AI in the classroom or teaching students how to use AI appropriately.
This suggests that the practical application of AI technology in education is still in its early stages. Although the potential of AI is recognized, there still seems to be uncertainty about how to effectively integrate it into the curriculum.
Status of Leadership and Education Programs
There are some positive signs on the leadership side. 62% of respondents said they have a dedicated leadership or group to coordinate the use of AI. This shows that many educational institutions are recognizing the importance of AI and making efforts to approach it at an organizational level.
However, the actual operation of the training program was found to be somewhat inadequate. Only 32% of respondents had a CPD (Continuing Professional Development) program that addresses expertise and consistency in understanding and using AI. This suggests that there is a significant gap between the existence of AI-related leadership and the operation of actual training programs.
Conclusion: The Need for a Systematic Approach to AI Education
The results of this survey clearly show that while UK educational institutions recognize the importance of AI, they are still not ready for practical use and education. As AI technology rapidly develops and its impact on society increases, improving AI response capabilities in the education sector is an urgent task.
This would seem to require the following efforts:
1.
Expanding practical AI-based training programs for educators
2.
Developing guidelines for effectively integrating AI technologies into the curriculum
3.
Raising awareness of AI ethics and safety and establishing related policies
4.
Sharing best practices of AI utilization among educational institutions and building a network of cooperation
AI is not just a new technology tool, but has the potential to change the paradigm of education. If UK educational institutions actively respond to and prepare for this change, they will be able to effectively educate students with the skills they need in the AI era. This will ultimately lead to strengthening the competitiveness of UK education.
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