The digital revolution is well underway, and tech is increasingly becoming a mainstay in our lives. To keep up with this change, educators must find ways to incorporate multiple tech concepts in the classroom. There are different methods teachers, and educational leaders can use to integrate tech in a school. However, they should first learn about emerging technology before transferring that knowledge to their students. 

Tech professional development is one method of learning about tech, and here are six concepts educators should consider:

1. Cloud Computing 

Cloud computing creates a shared platform for teachers, students, and parents. This stage allows stakeholders an opportunity to assess any tasks undertaken by students in view of academic expectations. Furthermore, students in a group have access to equal resources and other learning material, which indirectly spurs teamwork. Generally, cloud computing can streamline the teaching and assessment processes, and educators should include the feature in their arsenal. 

2. Virtual Reality

Virtual reality, once established in the school environment, will significantly change the learning process. While it sounds like a futuristic concept, virtual reality allows one to simulate a different environment and experience different aspects of that reality. On the surface, it seems like a straightforward idea since you only need the right headgear, and you’ll be good to go. However, educators need professional support so that they can disseminate this concept to their students.

3. Virtual Laboratories

Like virtual reality, this concept allows students to simulate various experiments without having to step inside a physical lab. With an internet connection, students can carry on with lab activities remotely, obtain results and conduct relevant analyses. While this concept doesn’t fully replace a physical lab experience, students do not have to contend with the real danger of laboratory accidents, and they have a generous allowance to make mistakes. Virtual labs are still a novel idea, and teachers need expert guidance and training before incorporating them into STEM fields.

4. Digital Literacy

Gone are the days when print media was the norm. Nowadays, there is a massive shift towards digitization, and students must equip themselves to prosper in this age. There are multiple skills needed to have a degree of digital literacy, and there is a need for instructors to incorporate such lessons in the classroom.

5. Makerspaces

The world is quickly moving towards a digital ecosystem, and students who have skills that are relevant in the 21^st century are more likely to succeed after school. Makerspaces are platforms where kids can learn these applicable skills. In the spaces, students will undergo digital literacy training. Also, effective spaces teach multiple sciences, tech, engineering, arts, and mathematics concepts. Ideal student outcomes can be achieved when educators are guided by professional guidance and support systems.

6. Gamification

There isn’t a child who doesn’t like their video games. But did you know educators can harness this passion for optimizing student outputs? Gamification is generally about using video games to realize certain goals. The method motivates students with added in-game points, stage unlocks, and leaderboard progress. Educators can use this technique to get the most out of any learning process.