3 Exciting Trend in Educational Technology

3 Exciting Trends in Educational Technology

#1: Augmented Reality: zSpace

zSpace uses a virtual reality screen, special goggles, and software to create an 3D, interactive environment to enhance learning. A single “Instructor” can be purchased for $6,100. A “STEM Lab” can also be purchased for $62K that includes 12 workstations

zSpace makes learning more exciting and interactive through the use of virtual 3D activities. Students can use this technology to explore objects that they normally would not be able to see outside of pictures and diagrams. For example, students can select internal organs from the human body and manipulate them through a 3D display. The same can also be done with insects, animals, and more. For more examples of lessons, click here. Lessons were created to align with national standards, so finding uses for their resources is quite easy.

#2: Adaptive Learning Software

Adaptive learning software creates an individualized learning path based on information the software gathers from the student. The software analyzes what the student already knows, does not know, and how quickly they learn the content. Moby Max is an example of adaptive learning software that is becoming popular in K-8 education.

Click here to view an interview of how this adaptive learning software is making its way into higher education. Its use is reducing time to complete degrees and more accurately assessing students.

#3: 3D Printing

3D printing is becoming a popular tool in the professional world. Thus, it is making its way into classrooms. To create 3d objects, a digital version must first be constructed using a computer. A machine then lays down man very thin layers of material to create the object. So, not only are students learning computer skills to create objects, they are then getting to see and interact with the objects they create. For example, students might design a guitar like the one above. With this technology, students can learn how an instruments size or resonance chambers can change the sound of the instrument