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Invention of the IPad
The invention of the IPad in early 2010 led to the rise of tablet usage in the classroom, as tablets offered a unique mixture of features from smartphones and computers. With bigger screens than smartphones, a more lightweight design than laptops/computers, and educational apps, tablets became an efficient and convenient option for students.
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Rise of Khan Academy
In 2010, Khan Academy received large grants, which turned the small platform into a free, organized, and accessible learning system for users. The growth of Khan Academy reinforced the growth of education through technology outside of the classroom.
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Google Chromebooks Launch
In 2011, Google Chromebooks were first launched. They are now are a common laptop provided for students in the United States as they are portable, durable, and affordable, making them a great option for students.
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Growth of Learning Management Systems
By 2011, most learning management systems had developed or begun developing apps compatible with mobile devices, like tablets and smartphones. Canvas, a popular LMS, also launched in 2011. These developments reinforced the usage of mobile devices and Learning Management Systems as tools in educational technology.
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Emergence of Massive Open Online Courses
In 2012, MOOCs emerged into the world of educational technology. MOOCs are free online courses that anyone can enroll in on platforms like Udacity, Coursera, and Canvas. The development of these MOOCs gave more people access to education through technology.
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Adoption of Cloud Computing in Higher Ed
In 2013, many higher education institutions adopted cloud computing. Cloud computing allowed higher institutions to increase their productivity and mobility. Communication tools in the cloud also gave users more options for messaging.
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Increase in Laws Regarding Ed Tech
In 2014, there was an increase in laws created in regard to educational technology. 12 different states, including Utah, South Carolina, and Virginia passed laws to improve educational technology. These laws helped develop digitals textbooks and standards for educational technology.
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Launch of Google Classroom
Google Classroom was launched in 2014 as a streamlined way for educators to create and collect assignments, improve communication with students, and stay organized, all in one platform. This led to an increased usage of Learning Management Systems in the core of education.
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Ed Tech Shifted to K-12
In 2015, grades K-12 saw an increase in the usage of educational technology in the classroom. Students began utilizing more digital textbooks and personalized learning systems that help students learn at their own pace.
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Rising Enrollment in Coding Bootcamps
2015 also saw an increase in the enrollment of students in coding bootcamps, with the numbers going up 138% from 2014.
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Virtual Reality Growth
In 2016, virtual reality saw major growth. With the ability to give students an immersive learning experience, many educators believed it could be beneficial. Higher Ed Institutions began using VR to give students realistic experiences.
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Increase in Importance of Cybersecurity
In 2016, higher education institutions were one of the biggest targets for cyberattacks. This meant that colleges and universities had to focus on improving the security of their technological systems.
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Gamification of Learning
2017 saw an increase in the usage of gaming platforms as educational tools. Platforms like Kahoot saw an increase in usage as students found it enjoyable. This advancement made learning fun for many students.
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Introduction of Interactive E-textbooks
In 2018, augmented and virtual reality saw increasing popularity in education. E-textbooks began integrating digital information with the user's real-world environment to increase student engagement and retention.
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Use of AI to Simplify Learning
2018 saw an increase in the use of AI in online learning systems. AI was used as a way to further personalize learning, and provide feedback to students and educators in real time, allowing educators to adjust more quickly.
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Flipped Learning
2019 saw an increase in the trend of flipped learning. Rather than centering the teacher in the student's education, the student themself is centered. Students are introduced to topics through technology outside of class, and teachers help with further understanding.
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Major Rise in E-Learning and Distance Learning
The COVID pandemic in 2020 accelerated the usage of E-Learning programs across the country. As students couldn't safely attend school, they moved their schools 100% online. This led to an increased usage of E-Learning platforms, even in the following years.
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