How EdTech helps in bridging the ‘Skill Gap’ 🤝
EdTech: Pretty sure this is not the first time we’re hearing about this and it DEFINITELY won’t be the last time!
This simple yet innovative concept has become such an integral part of our lives that some of us may take it for granted. As in, we may not realize the true scale of the impact it’s making currently. This piece is here to make everyone realize just that.
The Problem
It won’t be wrong to say that technology has transformed the way we work, communicate, and learn. As more and more people continue to adopt new technologies and processes, there is a growing need for a workforce with advanced technical skills.
Does everyone upgrade with technology? NO!
Many workers today lack the necessary skills to meet the demands of today's job market. This gap between the skills needed and the skills available is often referred to as the "skills gap," and it presents a significant challenge for employers and educators alike.
The Solution
This is where the huge impact that EdTech is making, factors in. Believe it or not, this technology is the key to bridging the skills gap.
Let’s understand what EdTech is before proceeding.
EdTech is an umbrella term referring to the use of technology to improve education and learning. This technology can take many forms, including online learning platforms, educational software, and virtual and augmented reality tools.
One of the biggest advantages of EdTech is its ability to provide access to education and training to people who may not have had access to it otherwise. For example, online learning platforms can offer courses and training programs that are accessible to people regardless of their location, time constraints, or financial resources.
AI and ML based Learning
A major aspect of this is using AI and ML to create personalized learning algorithms. Through this, the course curriculum adapts to the student’s pace. Basically, each student gets more personalized data and information so that they can understand effectively. Many top universities like the University of California have adopted this.
On the other hand, Carnegie Learning uses ML-based learning for high school and undergraduates. Their AI simulated tutors and one-on-one private instruction is renowned worldwide.
Apart from helping anyone around the world access the best professors, universities and courses worldwide, EdTech in many countries has become a medium of providing online training to enhance information and communication technology (ICT) skills. This includes preparing online training materials and classes, especially after COVID-19.
Moreover, EdTech can be tailored to the needs and learning styles of individual students. Personalized learning algorithms can analyze a student's progress and adjust the learning experience to meet their needs. This approach can be particularly effective for students who struggle with traditional classroom environments.
Interactivity education software and AR Simulations
The focus on hands-on training and practical experience hasn’t been more than now. Skill India, Digital India, Make in India…these are all words on paper without EdTech’s impact.
To begin with, interactive education software have penetrated institutions all around us. You might have heard about interactive simulations and visual aids that make complex concepts easier to understand.
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For example, educators using apps developed by Classplus can NOT JUST conduct Live classes with 10,000+ students without any lag or overload. They can also: -
This is the interactivity and visual aid part being referred to above!
Apart from that, there are virtual and augmented reality tools that can simulate real-world scenarios, allowing students to develop skills and gain experience in a safe and controlled environment.
By bringing the real and virtual worlds together, AR enables an immersive experience that can be used in the classroom as well as in distance learning. This becomes even more useful when teaching STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), where visual aids and simulations can help students grasp abstract concepts.
EdTech for Employers
Till now we saw the ways in which the next generation can be trained to constantly upgrade themselves, to fill the skill gap when needed.
But when it actually comes to doing that, we think employers too have the responsibility to help bridge the skill gap!
Many companies today are using online learning platforms and other EdTech tools to train their employees in new skills and technologies. This is a great approach to instill their workforce with the required skills and thus, make them more competitive in today’s market.
Whether it’s an online interactive LMS, industry specific upskilling videos or sessions, the corporate world proudly accelerates itself…thanks to EdTech!
When workers stay ahead of the curve and remain competitive in their careers, there’s no way they’ll be obsolete anytime soon!
To wrap it all up!
In conclusion, the skills gap is a significant challenge facing many industries and businesses today. However, EdTech offers a promising solution to bridge this gap.
By providing access to education and training, tailoring learning experiences to individual needs, offering hands-on training and practical experience, improving the quality of education and training, and helping employers and industries close the skills gap, EdTech has the potential to transform the workforce and ensure that workers have the skills they need to succeed in today's job market.
As technology continues to evolve, the role of EdTech in bridging the skills gap will only become more important.
This article is written by Shoubhik Sen. 🙌