Think back to when schools suddenly shut down due to the rapid spread of COVID-19. Despite the panic and chaos that ensued, the pandemic has resulted in many positive changes to our education system. Seeing these rapid improvements should make everyone excited about the future of education.
Schools hastily switched from in-person to online learning—a transition most of us can still vividly recall. The lockdown confined students and teachers to their homes, forcing them to rely on technology.
About a year after the COVID-19 pandemic hit, schools introduced the hybrid learning method, allowing students to balance online and in-person coursework. These methods gave students and teachers more flexibility. Both benefited from the ability to work remotely. According to a report by Owl Labs, “83% say they are at the same productivity level — or higher — working from home compared to the office.”
Today, many full-time jobs permit employees to work from home, and online students receive an education without even stepping on campus. People in the workforce have earned their degrees this way, a feat they would have been unable to accomplish otherwise.
The pandemic resulted in tech becoming a staple in schools and the workplace. Although the pandemic has faded, technology remains relevant. This rise in hybrid schooling created an environment where students and teachers thrive. Now, teachers hold class discussions using Zoom. Colleges reduce paper usage by posting notes on Canvas. Students hear about events through push notifications rather than word of mouth.
The transition from in-person to online learning was pivotal for the education system. With collective effort and support, we can advance this change in how we learn and work to create a smoother, more inclusive experience. The future of education is in our hands let us make it extraordinary.