Introduction
– In your professional context (real or possible in future), have you used any of these (and if so, how was it)?
In my career, I have not had a lot of experience with virtual reality or augmented reality. We have tested some virtual reality with layouts of hospital and a dressing change but not to the extent that I would say I was comfortable. Remote learning has been implemented in the last 3 months due to the corona virus. I find that the changes were done so quickly that the tools we used were adequate and got the job done but there is definitely better learning tools we could use.
Virtual reality would be one that I would like to try and use with my students. Looking at the expeditions app and google cardboard goggles, I can see using this for anatomy and body function. This would align with the theory of cognitivism. It would focus on material the students already know and expand that. It would help in connecting the dots, problem-solving that we can explore. The other tool I would like to research a bit more before using is an education AI app. I think it would be a great way to keep information together and increase collaboration with the students. However, I would need to find the most suitable one for my students.
As always technology can be just as helpful as it is challenging. The first challenge would be internet. Many of my students come from rural areas and sometimes the wifi on the farm is as strong as the tractor. The same would be for me when out in the crops. Another challenge is cost, many of the tools have a high price tag. Would this be something the school would pay or something the students have to add into their already high expenses. The third challenge is the fear of the unknown. Some people aren’t ready to use more advanced tools. The lack of understanding or lack of direction can create fear for both student and instructor.
I think that being technology to the class would help increase knowledge and skills. We still need the face to face activities but there is a place for all.
Hello Sue!
Thank you for sharing your experience. I too believe that technology comes with challenges of its own. I can resonate with what you said about technology barriers and challenges faced by students in rural areas. In my home country, technology is still a pie in the sky for many students from lower financial backgrounds and remote areas. Also, teachers are hesitant to shift from traditional teaching methods to modern methods due to a lack of appropriate training and resources. Many public schools are not equipped with the required infrastructure. These barriers often hamper the students learning process.
Thanks & Regards,
Sarabjit
Hello Sue and Sarbjeet,
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Undoubtedly, technology has supported a lot in continuing the education system in these challenging times. However, it’s negatives cannot be ignored. For many technologically naive educators and students, it has proven a great challenge. Moreover, I agree that to afford technological tools has always been the biggest hurdle for economically disadvantaged learners. So, it is the right question to ask and think upon, whose responsibility is to make these facilities available to those in need? Government or the school system.
Thanks&Regards,
Rajman