Digital transformation in education: Deliver the right technology

We at SoloWay Tech are sure that digitalization is a natural process in the education industry. After all, today’s children are born smarter—they adapt quickly to life and understand gadgets faster than they can say their first word. Thanks to videos and cartoons, many learn colors, numbers, and letters. 

It is unlikely that they would be interested in just sitting in class with a book and a notebook, writing everything by hand, and listening to a boring teacher. Therefore, we believe that it is logical to use digital tools in the learning process.

What is the digital transformation of education?

Digitalization of education is the use of apps, programs, and other digital learning tools in schools, universities, and distance learning courses. For example, students do not do assignments in a notebook but with the help of LMS on the Internet.

Digital technologies also concern the organization of learning. For example, teachers use electronic journals instead of paper journals, and parents write an email to the teacher instead of calling or going to school.

In 2024, digital technologies will be used by any educational institution—schools, universities, technical schools, and online schools.

Stages of digital transformation in education

Education digitalization has passed through several stages:

1. Mid-1980s—early 2000s. The first computers began to appear in schools and universities. Therefore, it became necessary to develop computer literacy. Initially, the technique was used only during computer science lessons.
2. 2000s—mid-2010s. In this era of education digitalization, computers began to be introduced to study all disciplines, even those unrelated to information technology. For example, history classes began to show documentaries, math classes began to use interactive whiteboards, and tests were given as homework in literature.
3. Mid-2010s—present. Now, it is important that information technologies penetrate the educational process everywhere. For example, paper textbooks are being replaced by online platforms, paper journals and diaries are gradually being abandoned, and electronic ones are being used.

It should be said separately that the third stage has completely changed the organization and goals of the educational process. Pedagogical methods have changed. Classes that actively use electronic textbooks and platforms differ significantly from traditional ones. For example, children spend most of the class acquiring information independently. The teacher only guides them.

The digital transformation has also affected online courses. Many people prefer to study online rather than attend offline classes. It is much more convenient: there is no need to go anywhere after work, and you can study at home from your smartphone anytime.

Key technologies driving digital transformation in education

Here are some of the key technologies driving digital transformation changes in the education industry:

• Cloud computing. Cloud platforms enable educational institutions to store data and resources online, making information accessible from anywhere. This supports collaborative learning and eliminates the need for local servers.
• Internet of Things (IoT). IoT devices and sensors gather data about learning processes, assisting teachers and administrators in making data-driven decisions.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI personalizes learning by creating adaptive materials, automating assessments, and predicting student performance.
• Data Analytics. Collecting and analyzing data provides institutions with insights into student performance, allowing them to optimize instructional methods and programs.
• Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR). They offer immersive learning experiences and help students visualize complex concepts.
• Machine learning and text analytics. They classify and process textual data automatically, aiding in developing intelligent learning systems.
• Learning Management Systems (LMS). LMS platforms provide tools for creating, managing, and distributing learning materials, as well as monitoring student progress.

At SoloWay Tech, we specialize in digital transformation projects. One of our notable achievements is developing Optima School, the first and largest online general education school in Ukraine. Optima School offers students a modern European education that is accessible from anywhere.

Digital transformation in education: challenges and barriers

Despite the benefits that education digitalization brings, it faces significant challenges and barriers:

1. Unequal access. Disparities in access to digital resources create a digital divide, particularly affecting underprivileged communities.
2. Inadequate training. Many educators lack sufficient training to effectively use new technologies.
3. Resistance to change. Both educators and institutions may resist adopting new technologies and methods.
4. Financial constraints. Limited funding hampers the adoption and maintenance of technological tools.
5. Data privacy concerns. Protecting student data in a digital environment poses significant challenges.

Overcoming these barriers requires investment in infrastructure, professional development, and inclusive policies to ensure all students benefit from technological advancements.

Digitalization trends in modern education

There are 3 trends in digital education we highly recommend you use in 2023:

• Microlearning. The trend of expertise in one field is becoming more and more sustainable. Narrow skills rather than broad knowledge in the entire field are now valued. For example, instead of training mobile app developers, online schools make two different courses: for iOS developers and Android developers. This approach allows you to get the right knowledge faster to become an expert.
• Artificial intelligence in the role of a teacher. This trend has been developing for about five years and is now becoming one of the main trends in education. Artificial intelligence still cannot fully replace the teacher, but it can become a helper, an assistant, and a supplement.
• Gamification. Entertainment + education is a relatively new model. It allows you to impart knowledge in an interesting form, helps to keep students’ attention, and motivates them. For example, foreign languages are increasingly taught through popular movies, music, and memes.

Implementing these trends is possible both in schools or universities and in online courses. SoloWay Tech can help you implement any digital transformation trends.

SoloWay Tech – your reliable partner for digitizing educational projects

For the past 15 years, we have worked in the international IT market of the USA, Central and Eastern European countries, and Turkey, gaining extraordinary expertise. Our SoloWay Tech team understands all the ins and outs of digital transformation in education. Cooperate with us and get all the expertise we have gained for 15 years in the market. Make your digital transformation cost-effective and straightforward with SoloWay Tech!