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Internet of Things and its Uses in the Education Sector
The education sector is still not among the industries that fully apply the internet of things in their operations.
15:28 27 April 2022
The education sector is still not among the industries that fully apply the internet of things in their operations. Teachers, parents, students, and other education players have been wary of implementing connected digital learning solutions.
However, with the increasing widespread of the internet of things and cheaper implementation, a good number of learning institutions are tapping into this technology's benefits.
IoT has many uses in the education system, from streamlining class attendance to improved learner productivity. Let's understand IoT and its application in the education sector in the post. Read on for more.
What does the internet of things mean?
Internet of things simply means any network of things or devices with processing ability, software, sensors, and other technologies connected to the internet to collect data, exchange information with one another, and control processes.
There are tons of IoT devices. And the technology is nowadays used in almost all the sectors, including education.
IoT connectivity enables a wider, more convenient, and efficient control of processes and the environment. The technology provides automation and customization options that cannot be achieved when devices lack interconnection. Applications of IoT may differ based on the sector of application.
Uses of IoT in education.
Technology has been key in changing the scope and dynamics of learning. IoT is making education to be more practical and, in some instances, superseding the institutional boundaries. Check out the uses of the internet of things in the following section.
- Changing methodologies.
When we talk of the internet of things in the education system, we simply mean the incorporation of digital and technology-based devices for teachers and students in learning facilities.
The current education systems are adapting to materials like e-books which are downloadable and have saving and zooming features, smartboards used in place of blackboards, and enable writing with markers and display of course-related images and visuals.
Besides these, IoT features speech-text translations for note-taking, voice command solutions for teachers, GPS tracking and alarm systems, and smartphones and tablets having educational content. All these are controlled by a single server in the institution.
- Automated attendance recording system.
Student attendance is one of the primary concerns of teachers. It is one of the everyday tasks in schools without alternatives.
IoT and other technological integration can provide a solution to this difficult task in the school and help teachers. With biometric and barcode systems integrated with students' Ids, learners can automatically record their attendance as they enter their classrooms. In this way, you streamline attendance and avoid any storage and discrepancy opportunities.
Additionally, these systems can be improved to give direct calls to parents of the absentee students, notifying them of the child's absence from school. This way, it can help both parties understand the reason for the absenteeism.
- Improved institutional safety.
Most learning facilities do not have systems in place that can detect emergencies such as theft, fire, abuse, or any other crime in the school. The institutions neither have contingencies in place to address any form of accident.
With the presence of cameras and alarms, any intolerable activity within the school is captured and transmitted in real-time, thanks to IoT. And in the case of fire outbreaks, the alarms and sensors trigger the system in exact locations, limiting hassles and stampede of learners.
- Enhanced interaction and productivity.
Digital-based classroom makes learners more interactive and engaged. When they can understand more and clearly, students are able to be creative beyond the classroom boundaries and raise their learning doubts and concerns.
This form of interaction-based learning enables learners to become more attentive and increase their productivity.
- Support special education.
In the past, it was nearly impossible and tough for specially-handicapped children to get a normal education.
But with the rise of IoT, education systems have smart devices that are designed specifically to favor the needs of special students.
- Close monitoring.
Regardless of the location of the website portal, either within the school premises or remotely located, there is always the ability to monitor students' activities and time taken on a particular course or unit.
The IoT sensors automatically collect data and recommend courses based on learners' interests, hence allowing seamless learning to continue.
Conclusion.
The internet of things has streamlined and provided answers to modern education globally, making it available, engaging, and easy for all.
There are tons of advantages that IoT can bring to the education sector, including but not limited to close monitoring, improved safety in schools, supporting special needs learners, automated attendance, and evolving learning methodologies. Try it now for improved learner productivity and a happy teaching experience.