Technology advancements have reached far beyond our imagination, and the world is moving at a fast pace. The way we live today has evolved substantially from the one we lived in 15 years ago. This evolution is felt in everything, starting from how we communicate to using smart technology; the innovations are endless. Every industry today has benefited from technology, and education is no exception.

A few years ago, educational methods were conventional —for example, classroom sessions, written assignments & submissions, face-to-face interviews, and whatnot. But today, the education styles have changed to a vast extent. There have been loud developments in terms of technology integration in the education system. Moreover, the pandemic has brought significant changes in the way we learn today. Distance learning has changed the sphere of education, and students & teachers are embracing this change. 

The Covid-19 pandemic compelled the educators and the learners to adopt digital learning. They all had to rely on EDtech platforms irrespective of their choice quickly. This article will focus on how Covid-19 has led to distance learning and EDtech come to the rescue during such adverse times. 

Embracing the digital learning platform

Of course, Covid has not brought new technology. But it definitely accelerated the pace of the technology that was already in place. Who used to take online classes before the pandemic unless it was really urgent? Right! Today, we are compelled to attend classes online despite being less interesting because that’s the new normal. 

Distance learning has its flaws, no doubt. For starters, educators face more trouble because they cannot know who is paying attention and who is on their phones. While for students, it can lead to a sense of boredom because they cannot physically interact with their classmates, and well, of course, classroom sessions are more interactive than online ones. 

However, distance learning is the new normal that we must embrace to keep our loved ones and us safe. It can be more interesting than it seems with more engagement between teachers and students.

There are also many benefits of online learning; let’s take a look.

• Reduces travel time and cost: This is the best advantage of all. All you need is a good speed internet to connect to your fellow classmates and faculty. You don’t have to put on make-up and clothes every day to your schools or colleges. You save lots of travel time, especially if you leave far, and thus travel cost. 
• Comfortable learning: You can learn in a relaxed environment sipping your coffee in your comfy pajamas. 
• Removes shyness: Some people feel shy and cannot contribute well in the classroom. However, online learning eliminates this barrier for such people and boosts their confidence.
•  Attend the session later: Webinar can be recorded, so if a specific time is not convenient for the student, they can attend the session later because it is recorded, unlike classroom sessions.
• Availability of online resources: the digital learning tech enables the students to gain access to an extensive library of resources, including pdf, test papers, books, and much more. These resources help students in their learning process to get quality content. 
• Learning with fun: According to research, mobile apps helps students learn in a fun way. It also holds attention for a more extended period. Moreover, the introduction of gamification in the learning process has increased the interest levels of children with innovative and amusing techniques to play while learning.
• Offers personalization: Apart from several other benefits, e-learning also provides personalization. Online learning platforms render a personalized way of teaching and learning students as per their needs. 
• Sustainability: The mobile learning process reduced the wastage of paper. While millions of trees are cut to make papers for conventional learning methods, mobile apps only require a download. Thus, saving the earth for posterity.
• Cost-effective: Online learning is much more cost-efficient than any other form of education. E-learning tools are available at a much lower cost and deliver quality education. 
• Real-time performance report: Online learning enables students to measure their progress in real-time. This feedback gives students a quick and more precise analysis of their learning progress. 

Yes, there are indeed several benefits that outweigh the flaws. And while there is nothing in the world that’s actually flawless. We should be grateful to the online learning tools and experts for creating innovative technology that allows us to learn despite such adversities. 

Let’s take a look at some distance learning innovations:

Online classes

Multiple platforms have proved to be of immense help amid the crisis situation, such as Blackboard and Zoom. These platforms are ideal for meetings and conferences across a large group for both teachers and students’ convenience. There are also some education platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and many more, where students can take courses and upgrade their learning. 

Mobile applications

During such times, universities and schools are launching their mobile apps for students and faculties’ convenience. Moreover, this will encourage fast and seamless communication and understanding between parents/students and the academic institute. 

A mobile app is a perfect platform to add concise and viewable content in live sessions, videos, and interviews. It can be used to render parents/students with quick updates and the latest happenings at the institute. 

There are also calendar apps by app developers that can be integrated into the app to allow students to schedule meetings with their mentors looking at mentors’ availability.

Online Application Process

Why should the pandemic hinder the admission process? Instead of pausing the admission process, most institutes have turned to a digital application procedure. An online entrance exam would save a lot of time and resources for both the institute and the applicant. 

Distance Learning is the future

After reading this blog, it makes much sense that distance learning is the new normal, and we all have to adapt to the recent changes due to the pandemic crisis. Thanks to the technology experts who have picked their pace to render us with quick & robust services in the light of the pandemic.