Today, technology is already impacting everyone involved in education. The top devices used weekly in the classroom are laptop (56 per cent) and desktop (54 per cent) PCs, followed by tablet (51 per cent), interactive whiteboard (45 per cent), and smartphone (28 per cent).

Digital learning is also expected to increase and make a greater impact in classrooms of the future. Three quarters (75 per cent) of teachers foresee digital learning content replacing printed textbooks within the next ten years.

Having been already exposed to technology, the new generation of teachers are stronger believers of technology having a positive impact on education. 81 per cent of teachers with ten or fewer years of experience are optimistic about the effect of technology on learning at school.

Many institutions are sharing the enthusiasm of their teachers, though there is still some room for improvement. Under half (40 per cent) of teachers say their school is lagging in technology use and adoption.

Beyond the classroom

With 90 per cent of kids using digital learning materials at home, it shows that technology is acting as an enabler for education outside the classroom. It could also help bridge the gap between in-school and after-school learning.

Students are also open to learning outside the classroom. Three quarters (75 per cent) said they are interested in studying more about school-related subjects when not in school.

To supplement what’s being taught in school, 84 per cent of teachers are interested in having more at-home digital content available. Just as many parents (88 per cent) share the same view.

Interestingly, the survey found that many children start learning with digital technologies before they even step into a classroom. In fact, two thirds start learning this way by the age of five.

A trusted advisor

The teacher’s recommendations for digital learning materials are highly valued among students, parents, and other teachers. Half (50 per cent) of students who played educational games during summer did so because it was recommended by their teachers.

When it comes to selecting digital learning materials for use at home, brand recognition plays an important part for 94 per cent of parents. Other top factors include teacher recommendations, good value, and quality content.

The majority (72 per cent) turn to their teachers for guidance about what digital education materials to choose for their child’s learning at home. Many teachers (82 per cent) turn to other teachers for advice on the best type of digital education materials for their students learning in school.

Future learning

What the survey results show is that the digital transformation of education is well underway. Not only that, but it is also gaining momentum.

Teachers are already seeing the educational possibilities of technology both inside and outside the classroom, but they will need to continue to adopt and deploy these tools moving forward. Doing so will help move education technology from a nice concept that will someday deliver, to an essential and valuable learning asset that positively influences a student's life both insides and outside the classroom.

We’ve already assisted educational institutions such as Australian Catholic University, Curtin University, Massey University, University of WA, University of Canterbury, Victoria University of Wellington and others with their systems and digital transformations. If you are looking for guidance with content delivery platforms and emerging technologies, contact us today to learn how we can ensure the best quality experience for you and your audience.