How EdTech Tools Can Enhance Learning Creativity in Classroom?

Technological advancements today have enabled tutors to use EdTech (Education Technology) tools in classrooms. Such tools/applications offer innovative solutions to different teaching/learning challenges and help create a learning environment suitable to students' diverse needs and learning styles. This blog aims to convey how EdTech can boost creativity in the classroom, resulting in effective learning and improved student performance.

What is EdTech and How Has it Affected Education?

Education is the process of imparting knowledge and skills to a population (primarily its younger section), to create minds that take civilisation forward. It is a field that must allow itself to evolve rapidly with time to ensure students get the best learning experience.

‘Education Technology’, commonly referred to as ‘Ed Tech’ is the field that deals with the ideation, design, and development of hardware and software products, which are used in teaching/learning settings like school or college classrooms. 

These digital learning tools, with their inbuilt features, can ensure the following;

• Make learning more personalised for each student.  
• Offer collaborative learning methods through virtual meets, screen sharing, etc. 
• Provide gamification methods to make the overall learning experience enjoyable.
• Enable visual learning through videos and auditory learning from podcasts.

The COVID-19 pandemic forced the world to implement social distancing, leading to the rise in demand for EdTech tools in the education landscape. Since then authorities, tutors, learners, and everyone else realised the value of EdTech tools in the classroom, leading to further innovation in such products.

Prominent Features of EdTech Tools

Some prominent features of ed-tech tools that can bring value to classroom sessions include:

• Gamification elements that make learning more engaging and interactive.
• Collaboration tools that facilitate group projects and peer-to-peer learning.
• Adaptive learning algorithms that personalise instruction based on student performance and preferences.
• Multimedia resources such as videos, animations, and interactive simulations to improve comprehensibility.

The Power of EdTech in Unleashing Student Creativity

Here are several methods through which EdTech apps can bring out more student creativity in classroom settings:

1. Utilising Videos

While traditional methods of explanation can be effective depending on the teaching style, the ability of videos to improve classroom engagement and memory retention is undeniable. A study from the Management Information Systems Research Center at the University of Minnesota has highlighted the importance of visual learning in effectively teaching new concepts to students. 

Real-world examples presented through the visuals in a video can imprint the understanding of a concept in a student’s mind forever. Consequently, he/she grows a healthy habit of making connections with real-world phenomena, while studying new theories/concepts.

2. Implementing Gamification    

Gamification techniques are about merging elements of gameplay with educational content to create competitive, interactive and enjoyable learning experiences. EdTech applications offer game-like simulations, learning exercises, and leaderboards as inbuilt features. 

These tools also provide personalised learning experiences. They include immediate feedback, opportunities for trial and error, and ways to measure progress. As a result, student comprehension and performance are improved.

3. Collaborative Study Through Screen Sharing

Screen sharing features available in EdTech apps allow users to communicate with each other, and share/project content on one device’s (desktop, laptop, or mobile) screen onto that of devices in different locations. This allows students to learn, grow and improve through collaboration and peer feedback. 

Introverted students also benefit and improve from such exercises. A habitual discussion of topics pushes the mind in creative ways to counter questions and convey one’s own understanding.

4. Other Important EdTech Features That Encourage Creativity

EdTech tools encompass a wide range of digital resources, including interactive whiteboards, educational apps, virtual reality simulations, and collaborative platforms. Such features offer diverse opportunities for students to explore, create, and express their ideas in creative ways.

5. Personalised Learning Boosts Student Creativity

The right ed-tech tools enable personalised learning experiences that suit students' interests, learning styles, and pace. Through interactive and immersive learning experiences, these tools stimulate curiosity, spark creativity, and inspire critical thinking skills.

6. Visual Learning Features Other Than Videos

EdTech tools also promote visual learning through interactive diagrams, multimedia presentations, and virtual tours. These features lead to improved comprehension and retention of complex concepts in memory.

7. Measuring Performance Accurately

EdTech tools offer real-time feedback and assessment features allowing tutors to track student progress, identify areas of improvement, and tailor instruction to meet individual learning needs. By providing timely feedback and personalised learning pathways, these tools support the continuous growth and development of students.

Exploring the Latest EdTech Innovations

Aspiring tutors should stay up to date with the latest developments in the EdTech space. Some of these innovations include:

Interactive Whiteboards

Interactive whiteboards are smart features offered by EdTech tools, which will soon see widespread usage. These can enable tutors to create dynamic presentations, annotate content, and conduct exercises that promote active learning and collaboration.

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)

AR and VR technologies provide immersive learning experiences that project 3D images in a real space, or transport students to virtual environments. Such technologies aim to achieve a whole new level of student engagement. For example, a virtual exploration of historical landmarks or a tour through the inside of a human body.

Educational Apps and Games

Educational apps and games offer interactive learning experiences that blend entertainment with education. They allow students to practice skills, solve problems, and revisit concepts in a fun and engaging manner.

Digital Storytelling Tools

Digital storytelling tools enable students to create multimedia presentations, videos, and animations that showcase their creativity and storytelling skills. It improves their self-expression and communication skills.

Conclusion

We have tried to convey how EdTech can boost creativity in students and empower them to become active, lifelong learners. We hope that the information in this blog encourages practising and aspiring tutors to create dynamic learning environments that inspire curiosity, collaboration, and creativity in students.