Information technology has the power to create and enhance new proficiencies in the education arena. Information technology in education revolutionizes most of the approaches we view, receive and perceive information every day. There has been a paradigm shift from textbook-based education system to a more interactive and virtual education system across the world.

Here are 7 ways information technology is changing the face of education all over the world:

1. Multimedia content

One of the major changes brought about by the use of information technology in education is the introduction of multimedia content. Multimedia learning meets the needs of all types of learning styles. Learning through the use of videos, pictures, text and games offer a better understanding of concepts than learning in the traditional manner. Tutors can also use online learning resources and apps to present information in an easy-to-apprehend manner.

2. Access to quality content

Digital devices have resulted in a paradigm shift from limited information to a vast resource of quality content available online. They offer personalization, by providing direct access to all kinds of content, are interactive and mobile. The access to quality content is also at a lightning speed rather than spending hours browsing through books to pull out the required content.

3. Mobile learning

Classroom learning has almost become a thing of the past. The use of information technology in education has led to a new concept termed as “mobile learning.” Student can move from their desks, walk around, and learn new concepts. Students can now access learning modules from the comfort of their home, skype with other classes and involve in various collaborations for project learning.

4. Self-Monitoring techniques

One of the most appreciated changes that have been fueled by the use of information technology in education is the plethora of tools available for self-monitoring and evaluation. There are numerous mock tests and applications available online that can offer a real-time evaluation of the students. There is no need for classroom evaluation tests as was the case earlier. Real-time and factual test results offer an easy insight into the performance of students.

5. Focus on practical skill training vis-à-vis soft skill training

The utilization of information technology in education has shifted the focus of education from monotonous soft-skill training techniques to practical skill training. Most universities now concentrate their activities and projects to areas that can help students to show a portfolio of work activities to their future employers.

6. Students with disabilities

Recent studies have shown how the use of information technology in education has helped students with various disabilities to learn at par with other students. Tablets have helped many students with autism to communicate effectively. e-Books with text-to-speech features have assisted blind students or children with dyslexia to gain access to all kinds of learning material.

7. Cost-effective education

Many people argue that the use of information technology in education involves huge costs. However, if you look at it closely, resources such as eBooks, free online resources and virtual outdoor trips are in fact promoting better learning at affordable prices across students of all strata and ages.

EBooks are often cheaper and are available with interactive learning sessions, worksheets and linked dictionary tools. Think of the days when every change in information involved the purchase of new books and resources. Due to digital learning techniques, most schools that subscribe to eBooks have access to constantly updated content at almost nil cost.

The availability of online resources facilitated by the use of information technology in education makes informative content easier to discover, access, to change and disseminate. All these stages are crucial for teaching, study or even research work. In a nutshell, information technology in education has paved the way for digital learning.

7 Ways Information Technology is Changing Education