With each passing year, the education sector continues to introduce new ideas and solutions to improve existing processes or act in response to unforeseen challenges that inevitably emerge. With technology being the major driving force behind educational change, it’s becoming increasingly important to look ahead at what could be on the horizon. Only last year we saw the frenetic introduction of AI on a mass scale, where generative AI tools and chatbots were suddenly being used in almost all sectors. In terms of unprecedented change, it seems unlikely that we’ll see anything of that calibre this year, but when it comes to tech you simply never know!

What we can focus on are trends that we’ve seen beginning to make real waves throughout the sector and aren't showing signs of slowing down. In only the past few decades, we’ve gone from the humble overhead projectors and bulky computers (on trolleys to share between classrooms - yes, really…)  to modern learning management systems and 1:1 ‘tablets for pupils’ programmes. It is evolving at a rapid pace which can be equally exciting as it is frightening, so let’s dive in and explore 5 trends to look out for in 2024. 

 

1) Hyper-personalisation

Personalised learning has been widely recognised in the education sector for many years and is a concept that many believe to be a necessity moving forward. There are now countless platforms, applications and tools available that harness personalisation in the classroom, aimed at a range of age groups from primary school to higher education.

Hyper-personalisation however is a step further in tailoring education to individual students. It involves leveraging advanced data analytics and artificial intelligence to create highly customised learning experiences. Hyper-personalisation has the potential to provide recommended resources, adaptive assessments, and real-time feedback to students. Machine learning can also monitor what has been the most effective learning methods for individual students and develop specific tasks for them that have the best probability of keeping them engaged.

 

2) Blockchain Technology  

The global blockchain in education market size is expected to grow significantly by 2030, implying it’ll have a big role to play. Blockchain's integration with education brings forth security and transparency to the management of academic records and credentials. By employing decentralised ledgers, educational institutions can securely store and verify student credentials, ensuring their integrity and authenticity. 

This technology also has the capability to streamline administrative processes, such as assessment validation and transcript management, and mitigate the risks associated with fraudulent certifications both for staff and students. Moreover, the tamper-proof nature of blockchain adds a layer of trust, providing stakeholders with records that can be accessed securely and conveniently. Blockchain is particularly exciting when it comes to a whole-school journey perspective of a learner, where record-sharing between education establishments could be made so much simpler - all to the benefit of individual pupils. 

3) Data-Driven Decisions  

MAT and school leadership teams can now collect and analyse vast amounts of data, providing valuable insights into student behaviour, engagement, and performance. These insights enable educators to identify struggling students early, and intervene with an appropriate  teaching response Additionally, MATs are leveraging data to create reports, forecast trends, optimise resource allocation, and enhance operational efficiency.

The strategic use of data-driven insights not only facilitates continuous improvement but also contributes to more effective educational strategies and policies. We’re now seeing AI-based platforms and systems that utilise this data to automatically provide insights and recommendations to improve overall performance. This saves time that would’ve previously been spent having to interpret and analyse data manually to draw conclusions.

 

4) Smarter Devices, Smarter Learning?  

Smart devices are getting, well, smarter as new devices are being released every year. These newer devices are better able to facilitate more advanced learning resources such as 3D modelling, VR and AR. They accommodate various learning styles and preferences, also allowing students to access content at their own pace and revisit materials as needed.

Going into 2024, they’re becoming less of a pipedream for many with their availability improving as more schools have access to better internet connectivity and devices are becoming more affordable. This is highlighted by recent programmes such as Connect the Classroom. 

 

5) Breaking down the classroom walls

From exploring historical landmarks to conducting safe scientific experiments in virtual laboratories, AR and VR technologies provide students with immersive learning opportunities. While they aren’t new ideas, we’re continuing to see greater availability of more advanced devices that can genuinely deliver classroom value. The definition and responsiveness of AR/VR continues to improve with each new release.

Wearables, like AR smart glasses, seem to do the hokey-cokey coming in and out of fashion every few years for the last decade, but they do offer exciting potential. They aim to boost learning and teaching through features like real-time language translation, more engaging learning via AR, or focus monitoring for personalised support. For now, their use faces hurdles; cost, privacy concerns, and technical integration can be barriers. Pilot programs however do show promise, particularly in areas like immersive learning and special needs support, and based on the showing at CES 2024, we will be seeing more of them later in the year.

 

Summary

The shift from chalk blackboards to the emergence of students using their own smart devices has happened in an incredibly short period of time in the grand scheme of things, and it's been driven by rapidly evolving technology.

We’re not sure how many of these ideas will stay with those ‘digital enthusiasts/early adopters’ on the fringes and how many will move into the mainstream in future years. It’s certainly interesting to think about where education is heading, and while impossible to truly predict, it’s worth considering what comes next. For 2024, it’s safe to assume AI will continue to influence essentially all aspects of EdTech, whether we’re comfortable with it or not.

At Novatia, we specialise in IT solutions for schools, academies and MATs throughout the UK, as well as provide support for the design and delivery of school construction projects. If you’d like to find out more about our work or how we can help you, get in touch here.

 
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