4 ways technology can enhance your classroom

Technology is evolving fast. Advanced tech that’s cost-effective and convenient to install is now readily available on affordable rental contracts, bringing a whole new realm of possibilities into the classroom.

Here are four of the ways that technology can enhance your classroom:

1.      Interactive screens

Interactive screens have been around for a while now, but most teachers are yet to use them to their full potential.

The value of interactive screens as a learning resource is in their capacity to help students visualise information, data, people and places. This might include using apps like Google Earth to visit far-flung locations, or games like Minecraft to teach kids collaboratively about programming or construction.

Interactive screens can now be used to compile all the notes you make throughout a lesson, which can then be shared via students’ mobile devices or learning portal.

They can also be paired with a webcam and microphone to record classes, and even used to engage with other people or classes overseas.

2.      Teach iterative design with 3D printers and laser cutters

67% of UK manufacturers already use 3D printing in one form or another, making it an increasingly valuable professional skill.

But, having devices like a 3D printer or laser cutter in your classroom can do so much more than just teach kids how to use a new tool. These futuristic gizmos can give your students a whole new take on design and manufacturing.

By encouraging them to design, prototype, evaluate and adapt their ideas, you can let them experience the iterative processes required to come up with a new product or device.

And, the promise of watching their concept come to life should be enough to keep them engaged throughout the entire process.

3.      Take learning out of the classroom with iPads

Integrating iPads and other mobile devices into your teaching methodology gives you scope to take your lesson into inspirational new learning environments.

But, educational pioneers in the US are finding innovative new ways to do much more with mobile technology. ‘Flipped learning’ is an educational model established across the pond that’s now making its way to UK schools.

The concept involves sharing learning resources and instructions via an iPad for students to engage with collaboratively outside school. The teacher effectively becomes a learning guide, using classroom time to direct discussions or delegate exercises that would once have been homework.

4.      Optimise student performance with LED lighting

Using LED lighting to simulate daylight can improve your students’ concentration, cognitive performance and overall sense of wellbeing.

By using specialist bulbs that mix blue and white LEDs, you can make a subtle change to your students’ circadian rhythms. This helps to make them more alert in the mornings – a challenge that everyone who’s taught teenagers knows about.

‘Biologically-optimised’ lighting has been shown to reduce student errors in a concentration test by as much as one-third¹.

LED lighting is also a great way of introducing kids to eco-technology and the environmental mantle their generation will need to take on.

Technology is evolving exponentially, and will play a crucial role your students’ adult lives. By demonstrating the latest technological tools and how they can be used creatively, you can enhance the learning process and introduce them to a vital new set of professional skills.

Find out how leasing items from our extensive technology range could bring a whole new dimension to your teaching practices.