How Technology Improves Education for Distance Learners
- Angela Novelli
- 12 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Distance learning has grown tremendously in recent years, especially following the global pandemic in 2020 when schools and education centers were forced to shut down. Many students found that receiving their education online from their home was and continues to be more beneficial than a traditional classroom setting. In fact, a survey conducted showed that 75% of students reported online education being equal to or better than in-person learning.
As technology continues to evolve and transform various industries, including education, we are seeing more innovative ways to conduct our day to day lives. For distance learners, technology has the potential to significantly improve their education in a variety of different ways. Approximately 30% of U.S. students have enrolled in at least one online course in 2025, and new and advanced technology provides ways for them to receive the best education possible.
AI Helps Teachers Improve Engagement
With distance learning, there are many aspects that are had within a traditional classroom that are not found over computer screens. Hands-on learning activities are not as effective when conducted online, and it is more difficult for teachers to keep students engaged in the lesson when they are at their house which could introduce many different distractions. Distance learning also provides a barrier to witnessing any signs of confusion from students, making it difficult to ensure they understand the material before the instructor moves on.
With advanced technology like AI, distance learning barriers can be brought lower to improve education. These systems have the capability to monitor students’ behavior patterns to detect signs of disengagement, including typing speeds and response timing based on their usual patterns. Some AI software can also use facial recognition and voice analysis to allow teachers to recognize displays of confusion so that they can ensure each student is clear on what is being taught and feels connected to the learning experience.
Students can also receive a personalized learning experience with AI, which detects strengths as well as areas that can be improved upon so that teachers can tailor content to student needs. With the assistance of AI tools, students can be sure to receive a learning experience that works for them and their learning speed.
Advanced Technology Makes Distance Learning More Immersive
At Riverland Community College, technology is being used to make education more immersive for its distance learners through its new Zoom Room 2.0. It features six learning pods that each contain two interactive screens that overlook a table, allowing students participating over Zoom to feel as if they were in the classroom.
Shawn Martin, Instructional Technology Coordinator for Riverland Community College, has stated that this project is very important for him as someone who received an online education and missed the sense of community that in-person learning brought. With the Zoom Room 2.0, students are able to feel like they are truly part of the classroom, instead of being miles and miles away from the rest of the students in the class. There are teachers at the college that are already seeing the difference that this system brings, increasing overall engagement as well as connection between students that are in-person and online.
This feat of technology shows what innovative transformations can be made to improve access for students everywhere, in a way that allows them to feel part of the learning community that they participate in.
We are seeing great ways that technology can improve education for everyone, whether in-person students or distance learners. Each student deserves to receive the best education possible, and these new tools and systems are providing the opportunity for online students to receive an improved learning experience.
“Online education enables people to learn without borders, limits, or excuses.”
– Daphne Koller, Co-founder of Coursera
Sources:
Comments