JABULANI technologies

How EdTech Boosts Student Participation (Engagement and Performance)

In this episode of our series, we shall look at “How EdTech Makes Learning Interactive”.

When asked about one of the biggest challenges in teaching today, most teachers will say it's “engagement” - keeping learners actively engaged during lessons. EdTech suggests a solution with tools or devices that bring lessons to life. Let's see how:

1. Interactive Content
Ever wondered how most young children stay “active and engaged” while watching a programme on TV or a related screen device, but fall asleep within 2 minutes of sitting in a traditional or unengaged classroom? Think of videos, simulations, animations, VR fun tours, or using a simple Chrome browser to create an AR experience. EdTech can make even complex topics feel accessible and exciting, sparking a world of curiosity and boosting students’ focus.

2. Collaboration Tools
I encourage teachers to assist learners in collaborating using shared online whiteboards, group projects on Google Docs, Canva, or a host of other collaboration tools. EdTech promotes collaboration among students and educators, building essential and sustainable teamwork skills. This way students can build social skills necessary for today and tomorrow's worlds

3. Self-Paced Learning
It is known that no two students are the same. Every student learns at their speed. The more reason platforms like Khan Academy let students gain some form of autonomy, having control of their learning pace, so they don’t feel rushed or held back.

4. Instant Rewards & Motivation
Many EdTech apps have integrated systems that often utilize use badges, points, or even virtual prizes to motivate students, transforming lessons into a rewarding experience for them. This has worked magic with a lot of students who say they don't give up until they get a badge for studying a particular topic or for a given period.

…. To be continued!

Dear teachers, how do you keep your students engaged? Share your ideas in the comments! And follow along as we explore more ways EdTech can transform learning every Monday.

EdTech Series....

Over the years as an EdTech trainer and enthusiast, I’ve seen firsthand how technology reshapes classrooms. But there's always that big question I get asked every time I go on this campaign, "where and how should beginners start?" Let’s break down why EdTech is vital in today's educational ecosystem, especially in Nigeria.

I'll pose the leading questions and give the corresponding answers.

1. What really, is EdTech?
Educational Technology (also called EdTech) is about using digital tools in class or during your lesson plan preparation — I advise that it could be from simple things like using a mobile phone or internet connection, to complex tools like projectors or interactive whiteboards to learning management apps or electronic books—all these, just to support or enrich your teaching and students learning. Now, that wasn't confusing, right? 😃 😊

Now that we have an idea of what EdTech is, let's look at another question.

2. Why EdTech?
i. For Creating Engagement That Lasts
EdTech turns very abstract or imaginary ideas into interactive experiences—think how students in a local or low-income community would react when being taught the human digestive system using a projector with vivid pictures and a video, or a science virtual labs or 3D history tours using Google Earth. The truth I have observed is that when students engage actively, learning deepens and sticks too.

ii. Personalised Learning Approach
In my second point, I like to stress that every child is unique, and EdTech makes tailored lessons possible. Adaptive apps adjust difficulty based on each student’s progress, and pace, creating a customised experience. Examples of educational adaptive apps I have tried are Kahoot, Khan Academy, Duolingo, and other Learning Management Systems designed to meet each child's learning needs. Which common app did I miss out on? 😃
...to be continued!

For new and existing educators, EdTech is more than just the use of new tools; it’s a way to identify and meet the needs of modern learners.

Interested in how EdTech could transform your classroom/subject or how to gradually introduce technology to your teachers as a school leader?
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