When it comes to the future of education, many thought leaders agree the digital transformation is one of the main forces impacting and upending the industry. According to Dr. Shannon Terry, Director, Division of Program Integrity Strategy at TD SYNNEX, there have been some institutions, however, that have struggled to adapt. “We’re trying to apply what has been the traditional style of educating our youth in a digital format or an online format,” she explained at the recent Red, White & You conference hosted by TD SYNNEX.
This concept, known as legacy thinking, binds people to the old ways of doing things, despite changes in the world. Dr. Terry noted that while most are embracing new and advanced technologies that are benefitting students and educators, the policies and resources driven by archaic methods create challenges as technology plays a more integral part in the classroom.
Industry Leaders Roundtable Reiterates Transformative Power of Technology in Education and Infrastructure
Many became more aware of educational accessibility gaps when schools were forced to go virtual in March 2020. These gaps were then addressed as part of President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law signed in November 2021. Dr. Terry discussed the issues of the digital divide and how, even two years later, work still needs to be done to bridge the gap in equality. Fortunately, Doug Cuato, Executive Technology Consultant, Center for Digital Government, addressed how part of the infrastructure bill is aimed at bringing broadband to more areas so students and educators can connect. For distribution partners, it continues to be important to monitor the needs of educators, students, and parents, and to provide a service that benefits everyone.
Serena Sacks-Mendel, Chief Technology Officer for Microsoft, Explains How Technology Levels the Playing Field in Education
Although education has a way to go in equality, Serena Sacks-Mendel, Worldwide Education Chief Technology/Transformation Officer, Microsoft, discussed how technology is helping to bridge the gap. Sacks-Mendel noticed how much education needed technology to transform, and her goal has been to make that happen. Distribution partners have the unique ability to help shape this transformation as they enable more customers to connect. According to research that Sack-Mendel presented, “93 percent of students believe digital learning will benefit their education, and 85 percent of educators believe the pandemic accelerated the future of digital learning by a decade.” Most students and educators are seeing how new tools benefit the learning environment and are embracing these tools.
Conclusion
The digital transformation is revolutionizing education. Those who are embracing the changes are finding success and recognizing the positive impact on students. While the digital divide is still an issue, recent actions like the bipartisan infrastructure bill are working to bring more resources and tools to students in remote and underserved areas. Overall, technology is a powerful means of leveling the playing field for all students to have the same access to learning.
