The education industry has experienced a strong expansion globally over the past few years. The education sector in India has also recorded an estimated growth of US$ 101.1 billion this year. The increasing influence of technology in the sector has gradually evolved into a realm of unconstrained learning. Technology has helped us explore new dimensions to achieve our objectives more effectively and efficiently. Here are some of the important trends of 2018 that has helped to reshape the education sector.
Personalized learning
The traditional ‘one size fits all’ approach to education is now becoming a thing of the past. Artificial intelligence (AI) allows personalization of the learning experience and has been the hottest trend in 2018. It has the potential to solve crucial challenges during classroom learning, like how to engage learners of different abilities.
AI now empowers students to learn at a pace and in a manner best suited to their needs and can become an important tool to ensure more uniform learning. These adaptive learning systems use machine learning along with natural processing and speech recognition technologies to help personalize the presentation of learning material based on their learning speed, interest and problem areas.
Gamification
Gamification is one of the exciting trends in the education sector, which has made a huge impact in 2018. It is common knowledge that children love to play video games. Instead of traditional education methods like step-by-step or rote learning, incorporating gaming elements in education gives way to interactive learning and reduces a child’s stress considerably. Compared to the traditional classroom learning, gamification cuts down boredom and motivates students to understand better and do well in their exams.
Educational Toys
Toddlers tend to learn better by playing, and educational toys increase the value of their playtime. The global educational toys market has recorded a growth of CAGR of close to 10% in 2018. Toy manufacturers are now encouraged to provide education-oriented toys in order to help children to learn and develop fundamental abilities.
These toys include math and science kits, language learning toys, and other toys, imbibing basic and advanced knowledge among the children as per the age groups.
AR and VR
Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) were the hottest modes of implementing training in 2018, as it provides a deeper learning experience. Virtual Reality has been there for quite some time now. However, this year we witnessed some exciting new possibilities in the immersive learning space with Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality added to the mix.
Both of these technologies immerse the learner in a more tangible, realistic learning experience and offer a simulated learning experience that helps to develop various skills. Traditionally, VR and AR were used more for gaming and movie experiences. Their application in learning is picking up now.
