The school of the future.
Generally speaking, schools have looked the same for the last 75 years or more. Of course,
technology is now a key part of the classroom, and interactive whiteboards may have
replaced the traditional chalkboards. But still the basic premise remains the same – the
teacher stands at the front facing rows of desks which students sit behind.
So, schools really haven’t changed much physically for the better part of century. Some
schools have experimented with flirtations of ‘open plan’ classroom design – but long
corridors with conventional classrooms off them are still largely the order of the day.
Technology has never moved at such a fast pace. Many people will be asking the question:
What should the school of the future look like? People are intrigued by the thought of
embracing technology more to improve the learning environment. AI (Artificial Intelligence) is
big news these days – Will robots take over from teachers one day?
VIRTUAL CLASSROOMS?
The extent to which the schools of today are fit for purpose is a hot topic. Many
educationalists believe that some of the things schools do are simply obsolete now. These
include losing school days either through illness or bad weather.We were able to develop a
facility that enabled the student to log on and view the classroom so that learning was not
affected in any way.
With the technology and software that is available today, let alone in 20/30 years’ time, the
idea of a virtual classroom could become commonplace.PART-TIME SCHOOLS?
Technology has made remote working simple. The possibilities and potential it offers – no
more commuting into the office, for example – are endless. Many companies have already
embraced remote and flexible working opportunities. The trend is only likely to grow in the
years to come – and it could extend into the world of education too.
Of course, we should never underestimate the value of classroom conversations and social
interaction. But, it is also true that technology now enables students to shoot and edit video,
make a radio show, design posters and websites, blog – and interact online as well.
The question could be asked: Is the traditional classroom now redundant?
ROBOT TEACHERS?
Many educationalists now believe that is only a matter of time before robots – intelligent
machines – begin to replace teachers in schools.
There will always be a place for teachers, but intelligent machines will be able to offer a more
individual and personalised experience for students overall.