Fusing technology into instructor-led education has been a hot topic since our nation’s push toward remote learning during the height of the pandemic. As uncomfortable as it may seem, this push forced teachers to become more familiar with tech-based tools they may have otherwise shrugged away. If anything, this push clarified the advantages of technology in pedagogy, shining light on the myriad of tools and digital resources teachers can utilize to create a rich learning environment for their students in ways that traditional techniques cannot match.
Pedagogy is defined as the specific approach an educator takes to get their message across to a group of students. Tech-based pedagogy involves using electronic or digital tools, media, and resources to enhance a student’s learning experience. A teacher will manage and coordinate instructional aides to facilitate effective learning, along with selecting technology based on the learning needs of students, according to VT.
Pedagogy in education has long been centered on traditional techniques, such as face-to-face lectures and pen & paper. However, the rise of technology-based tools within the education sector has shaken things up a bit. Think of portable devices, interactive textbooks, online education tools, and the like. Long gone are the days of penned exams when you can have lockdown browsers and fully remote learning.
Some technologies have become more prevalent in the classroom than others. Tools like Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Cloud are staples. You’d be hard-pressed to find a university that doesn’t offer free access to its student population. The SOLIDWORKS Education Program is popular among engineering students, just to name one curriculum-specific example.
Other tools like virtual and augmented reality can enrich classroom learning. For example, teachers can take their pupils on an educational virtual field trip they may not otherwise get to travel to. The use of 3D printing opens another door for students to flex their critical thinking, creativity, and imagination while learning how to use a piece of innovative technology.
The use of tech-based applications in pedagogy can create a hands-on, interactive experience for students in all disciplines of all ages.
In today’s competitive job market, engineering students need to grab every advantage and opportunity they can get. We give students a way to gain real-world experience in a virtual environment, learning engineering practices that industry leaders use today.
In affiliation with SOLIDWORKS, we offer a variety of certifications both for SOLIDWORKS and 3DExperience. Any of our formative, virtual educational programs could help students learn CAD software better, gain a sense of confidence in their skills, and boost their resumes.
Contact us to learn more about our custom-tailored programs and how you can easily get involved.