New tools and technology are reshaping the way learning occurs in the classroom. Modern learning is now interactive beyond the classroom. Blended learning and flipped classrooms get learners to think about (and use) the content differently than they ever have.
In short, learning is becoming more personal.
All that said, it takes more than tools and technology for effective learning.
Despite all of these great advancements, we have to remember that it ultimately comes down to the instructor for driving home learning points and ensuring that everyone understands the concepts.
The best teachers today do not rely upon technology as a crutch, but use it to supplement their learning. They act as the driving force behind the content.
The infographic below, designed by Mark Bates, displays seven habits of highly effective teachers, and how the techniques they use to get the most out of education technology.
For those of you who are live classroom instructors, or teachers in a K-12 setting, you may find it refreshing to see that not one of these habits has to do with the knowledge of technology. In fact, these seven habits really have nothing to do with the technology at all, but more the style of instruction.
Refreshing, isn’t it?
In the end, learners aren’t going to look back on courses that they took and have fond memories about the tools that were being used. No, those are quickly forgotten.
What they will remember is the teacher. A nice reminder that the most important component to any learning endeavor is the human aspect.