Technology is changing education in many classrooms around the world. New tools, platforms, tablets, and ideas are finding their way in schools everywhere.
Everyone has a different idea about ‘EdTech’ and how it can help us: a different way of adopting it, in different settings, at a different pace. Technology’s effectiveness is highly dependent on its users.
It will not surprise you to see that some of the best technology ideas came from teachers who, being closest to the fire of learning, know what is best for their peers and the students in their classroom.
Through TeachPitch I come in contact with many inspiring examples of how technology can be used. I feel privileged that I can share with you the five EdTech ideas that stood out for me the most:
Technology in Singapore: The Next Generation Broadband Network (NGBN)
NGBN ensures every public school in Singapore has ultra-high speed wireless connectivity. Internet access for any device allows teacher & student to instruct and learn through a variety of public school programs the Singapore government is making available on the web. NGBN cleverly taps into the high availability of laptops and tablets among Singaporeans and personalizes education in their schools from there. It is amazing to see the many results they have accomplished through this program. Singapore has surpassed the US in the use of technology in the classroom, leading to remarkable learning outcomes. NGBN is led by Dr. Pak Tee NG from the National Institute of Education in Singapore.
Technology in Kenya: Eneza Education
The goal of Eneza is spreading education via your mobile phone. It cleverly combines the explosively growing mobile phone market in Kenya and the dire need to improve the country’s quality of education through distance learning. Students can continue to study via text message, their parents can observe their kids, and their teachers can keep track of student work. Eneza was founded by Toni Maraviglia. You can read more about this great initiative here.
Technology in Bangladesh: Shidhulai Swanirvar Sangstha
Shidhulai Swanirvar Sanstha is an organization that enables schools to literally float to the student. It is a very inspiring initiative that allows children in the flood prone regions of Bangladesh to continue their education through the rain season. Its clever design allows solar powered boats to pass along the Bangladeshi villages where children are being taught. It is an initiative that has received broad recognition in the international media. The organization is founded by Architect Mohammed Rezwan.
Technology in the US: Edmodo
Edmodo is an app that makes social media about ‘education’. It allows teacher, parent and student to interact about anything related to school over social media during the school day. It was initiated by two school district employees who were tasked with blocking ‘mainstream’ social media from the students in their schools. It is currently used by over 41 million people in the US. It was founded by Nick Borg and Jeff O’Hara.
Technology in Chile: Docente al Dia
Docente al Dia, founded by Eugenio Severin, is reshaping education in Latin America by developing a teacher collaboration platform. It is a promising initiative that concentrates on teacher development, allowing them to work together and discuss educational policy matters in their districts.
I am continually interested to discover what technology is all about and how it matches the daily needs of those in school. It is safe to say that despite its many faces and nationalities, educational technology is on track to reshape schools all over the world. Are you working with a school or classroom technology that is worth sharing with us? If so, please do not hesitate to let us know.
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