Dubai, UAE - There is a growing focus on technology's importance in education, as highlighted by the International Computer and Information Literacy Study, which shows that the majority of teachers believe that innovative technologies in the classroom are crucial tools to develop skills necessary for the 21st century workplace, notably independent learning; critical thinking; real world problem solving and reflection; communication and collaboration; creativity; and digital literacy[1].
According to Khalil El-Dalu, General Manager, Epson Middle East, "Technology is transforming classroom learning at a fast pace. In the coming years, I believe the regional education sector will explore new ways to create active learning environments that inspire engagement and innovative thinking. They are faced with the challenge of transforming traditional learning spaces to seamlessly connected environments that foster creativity and sharing of knowledge. Learning experience in the regional educational institutions can be elevated to a more interactive experience by the adoption of latest classroom technologies. With advanced 3LCD projector technology, for example, it is possible to create collaborative study spaces, with interactive projection, enhanced communication and innovative document-sharing features. Document cameras also help create a more lively environment as it help to display books, 3D objects and experiments with remarkable clarity. Teachers can also display content from their iPad® or tablet."
He also added that IT buyers at educational institutions need to be educated on the latest technologies available and how it can benefit learning experience. Teachers also need to be well-trained in order to feel confident in introducing new technology and teach appropriately using the technologies. As per a recent survey that Epson conducted across Europe revealed, poor training on how to use new technologies was identified by 31% of all respondents in education as the main barrier prohibiting technology from fully benefiting the industry. The survey, also demonstrated that 38% of IT buyers are not pro-active in keeping up to date with new technology. Once the initial challenge of technology implementation has been addressed, almost a quarter (24%) of education staff said restrictions on being able to upgrade equipment were hindering their use of technology 'almost always' or 'frequently' - identifying an additional hurdle to getting the right technology in front of tomorrow's workforce.
Neil Colquhoun, Business Director, Visual Instruments, Epson Europe, says: "The survey results show that IT teams need to respond better to needs, and keep pace with new technologies so that teachers are not left with outdated equipment. However, with budgets being tightened, the pressures are greater than ever. Switching to products that are cost-effective to buy and maintain will be key to addressing these issues."
Khalil concludes, "More needs to be done to bridge the gap between technology and education but the good news is that education institutes are increasingly open to incorporating technology in the class room."
[1] The IEA International Computer and Information Literacy Study (ICILS)
© Press Release 2016
