Education and Technology: Interactive Learning, where the walls/ corners no longer matter

According to Katz (2002), e-learners of the future need to be able to search the vast amounts of knowledge and information and be able to understand and absorb it. In a time where information is abundant and readily available through various forms of technology, it becomes more difficult for schools to continue on in their traditional roles. Students need to be trained to be autonomous learners.

Expect the significant changes within educational institutions brought by education as the fundamental and technology as the means. Relationships with students, teachers and the future workers of tomorrow are transforming into a better one. Technologies such as consumer IT, open platforms, and cloud technology signal changes in the e-learners use of technology as well as changes in teaching and learning methods.

In terms of classroom experience, the e-learners have a greater use of inexpensive personal social networking tools and channels that deliver both formal and informal content. E-learners commonly utilize elements such as: Wikis, blogs, tagging, social networking, instant messaging, videoconferencing, and virtual worlds. They are able to communicate easily with teachers and classmates via video connection. E-learners have access to people, resources, and information from around the globe that will help them to create a personalized path for individual learning. Educators noted that there are major changes to learning. The learning objectives are focused more on e-learners competencies, such as problem solving and collaboration, rather than simply on the acquisition of knowledge. Teaching will be more student-centered. Learning will be better fit to the individual’s needs.

E-learners need to develop their own talents and interests so that learning will be more active and constructive, to be connected to real life. E-learners are learning together in a local and a global community. Technology as an integral part of future learning and daily life, e-learners therefore need to obtain the necessary skills to use various technologies effectively. Teachers are also learners and need to become lifelong learners. Teacher training needs to be continuous and lifelong and teachers need support of local and online communities. Ideas of work and education are beginning to change. The future is one of collaboration that occurs on a global stage.