In the modern classroom, technology enhances the academic experience for both the students and teachers.

When combined with other activities, such as discussions, quizzes, and hands-on tasks, technology can augment the learning experience.

There are many free and inexpensive tools available to better manage classroom activities.

They can help you organize lesson plans, create tests, and track grades. Teachers just need to know where to find them.

Here are some of the hottest classroom technology trends for teachers to consider.

1. Computers in the Classroom

For decades, computers have been a fixture in the classroom. The frequency of their use as a learning aid grows each year.

Many schools even issue students their own iPads, Chromebooks, and other devices. These tools can be used to research projects, take notes and quizzes, and more.

Providing computers for classroom use is also a great equalizer. It levels the playing field among students, even for those from impoverished backgrounds.

This access to technology that lower-income students might not have otherwise is important. It puts technology right at their fingertips, giving them a scholastic edge.

Of course, there are some concerns that these gadgets are distractions. But there are plenty of programs that ban social media apps.

It’s also easy for staff to take matters into their own hands by learning tricks like how to edit Mac host file. By doing so, they can block access to distracting websites, as well as adware and spyware.

2. Gamification

Gamification is the use of game-playing elements in a non-game setting. These elements range from scoring points to competing with others.

In this digital age, it’s easy for teachers to use game-based practices in an academic setting. It’s a fun way to incentivize and interest students.

Though it’s still a fairly new concept, studies show that games can increase student engagement. This leads to improved academic performances and better grades.

There are many apps on the market that provide game-based learning tools. Many also allow you to assign homework and track your students’ progress.

Gamification is also great for personalized learning. It allows students to go at their own pace.

3. Improved Communication with Parents

Ongoing dialogue between parents and teachers is key to a student’s academic success.

Parents interested in hearing about their child’s grades are more likely to encourage better habits. They’re more likely to create an at-home environment that fosters success.

Evolving technology makes it easier than ever for teachers to communicate with parents. There are many apps available that make tech-based communication a breeze.

Popular apps include SeeSaw, Class Dojo, and Spotlight.

Teachers can send texts, emails, and even personalized videos to parents. Many apps also provide parents with easy access to their child’s grades.

These make it easier for them to keep an eye on their progress.

4. Remote Learning

In recent years, more families have chosen remote learning for their children. Evolving technology has made it a better choice compared to the traditional classroom.

Now, with the Coronavirus remaining a concern, distance learning is becoming the norm. Luckily, the latest technology trends for this virtual experience are improving every day.

There are plenty of helpful tools for parents worried about remote learning’s effectiveness.

Teachers can conduct lessons using video conferencing. Classmates can interact on discussion boards. Students can organize their work in digital portfolios.

And online testing is easier to grade than paper quizzes. All these and more ensure students get the most out of a digital classroom.

5. Tools for Teachers

Administrative tasks are a big – and time-consuming – part of every teacher’s day. Luckily for educators, there are many web-based classroom management aids available.

There are apps such as ClassMarker, which makes it easy to create and grade online tests. Class Dojo offers ways to improve classroom behavior. SmartTeacher is another handy tool. It allows educators to do a little bit of everything.

Meanwhile, Google Classroom is a one-stop education center. It lets teachers stay organized and on top of their classroom.

6. Augmented Realities and Simulation

Classroom technology is always evolving. Augmented reality (AR) training and computer-generated simulation are emerging tools to elevate your students’ education.

They help create an immersive and interactive experience for young learners.

There’s a big world outside your classroom. These tools can help your students experience new places.

Say you’re teaching a lesson on Leonardo da Vinci. Without even leaving your classroom, your students can travel to the Louvre in Paris.

It’s easy for them to virtually view the Mona Lisa and his other famous works. Or maybe your students are learning about India. You can use AR for a virtual visit to the Taj Mahal.

The educational possibilities of AR and virtual reality are endless.

7. Makerspaces

Makerspaces weave together technology and hands-on learning. These spaces encourage students to use tools and materials to create, invent, design, and build tangible objects.

These creative spaces offer analog tools for learning traditional skills such as woodworking, electronics and car engine repair.

Students can also learn how to design for a 3D printer, fly a drone, build a robot and use audio and video equipment.

The coolest thing about Makerspaces is that many of the skills that students learn through them apply to the real world.

So, they’re taking away useful knowledge they can incorporate into their everyday life.

Predicting Technology Trends

It’s difficult to predict technology trends in the classrooms. New tools, apps, and software are being created all the time.

Teachers can expect that digital tools in the classroom are here to stay, though. The technology will only become more impressive as it evolves.

By staying on top of the trends, they can determine the best ways to incorporate this technology into their classrooms.