Technology and Teaching: A Balancing Act

Strategic Insights -

A symposium at the Karnatak University, facilitated by the University Grants Commission's Malaviya Mission Teachers Training Centre, recently brought together experts to discuss the evolving role of technology in higher education. The event, themed "Teachers: Technology and higher education," highlighted the growing significance of technology in teaching and learning processes. AM Khan, the vice-chancellor of Karnatak University, emphasized the importance of teachers adapting to technological advancements while also fostering the essential human values in students.

Key Takeaways:

  • Technology has assumed a significant role in higher education, with the use of artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and technology-based tools becoming increasingly appropriate.
  • By 2014, 5.8 billion students worldwide had registered for online courses, highlighting the rising adoption of digital learning platforms.
  • In India, technology-based teaching gained prominence mainly after 2019, underscoring the country's growing investment in ed-tech.
  • A 24-day special training program has been organized for newly appointed assistant professors to enhance their teaching abilities, covering topics such as teaching methods, research, curriculum, and technology skills.
  • The training program will be conducted by expert faculty members, underscoring the importance of professional development for educators.
  • Teachers must possess a multifaceted knowledge base and acquire skills to inspire enthusiasm and interest among students, in addition to fostering human values.
  • The symposium highlighted the need for a balanced approach to technology adoption in teaching, where pedagogy is not sacrificed for the sake of digital innovation.

Statistics:

  • 5.8 billion students worldwide registered for online courses by 2014.
  • Technology-based teaching gained prominence in India mainly after 2019.
  • A 24-day special training program has been organized for newly appointed assistant professors.
  • The training will cover teaching methods, research, curriculum, and technology skills.
  • Over 20,000 students, faculty and staff members of Karnatak University are expected to take part in the trainers' training program in the first phase.

Sources:

  • Dharwad: Karnatak University vice-chancellor AM Khan
  • Karnataka University
  • University Grants Commission's Malaviya Mission Teachers Training Centre
  • Times Content (Reprint Rights: timescontent.com)