УДК 37

Innovative (wearable) technology in education: revolutionizing teaching and learning

Зана Махмоод Аббас – аспирантка Белгородского государственного университета

Abstract: Innovative (wearable) technology is revolutionizing education by transforming teaching methods and enhancing learning experiences. Devices like smartwatches and augmented reality glasses are revolutionizing the learning experience, enabling educators to create personalized, data-oriented learning opportunities for students of all ages and skill levels. This article examines the ever-changing realm of wearable technology in the sector of education, investigating its wide-ranging uses, advantages, and difficulties. 

Keywords: innovative technology, wearables, learning, teaching, virtual reality.

Introduction

Innovative (wearable) technology has emerged as a groundbreaking influence in the realm of educational concerns, with the potential to significantly alter teaching and learning methods. Envision a classroom whereby students experience elevated heart rates during captivating activities, a sophisticated wrist-worn device notifies the teacher when a student requires assistance, and cutting-edge virtual reality headsets transport them to the core of significant historical occurrences [10]. This is not a scene from a futuristic film; it is a glimpse into the profound influence that wearable technology has had on the industry of education [5].

Technological innovations in education are constantly reshaping how information is obtained, disseminated, and utilized [3]. Wearable technology is currently causing a significant impact in schools globally [1]. These devices, such as smartwatches and augmented reality glasses, are transforming the learning experience and enabling educators to revolutionise their teaching methods. By incorporating these cutting-edge tools into the educational setting, teachers may develop more captivating, individualised, and data-oriented learning opportunities for students across various age groups and skill levels [12].

Categories of Wearable Technology in the Field of Education

The realm of wearable technology is enormous and varied, comprising a broad variety of gadgets that are capable of being incorporated into the field of education in a seamless manner [4; 9]. The following are some of the wearable technologies that are utilised the most frequently:

Smart Watches

Smart watches are the most often found wearable gadgets. Initially introduced as wearable accessories for smartphones, they currently showcase sophisticated functionalities. Several typical features include:

• Speech-to-text functionality allows users to verbally compose messages, emails, or notes while in motion.
• Text-to-speech: Smart watches utilise a feature that audibly relays information found on webpages, emails, and text messages.
• Speech recognition: Smart watches, like virtual assistants such as Alexa or Siri, are capable of understanding and responding to spoken instructions.
• Personal organisers: Users may conveniently manage reminders, alarms, and calendar entries straight from their wrist.

Educational Applications:

• In-situ learning: Smart watches provide learning in authentic, real-life contexts. English language learners can utilise them to obtain pronunciation feedback during conversations, as an example.
• Instantaneous access to information: Students may get data from their watches while on field excursions or doing experiments, so boosting their experience learning.

Fitness Tracking Bands

Although smart watches have gained more attention, fitness trackers continue to maintain their popularity [10]. Worn on the wrist, they track and measure many physiological activities of the body:

• Heart rate monitoring: Upload heart rate data recorded during physical activity.
• Step counting: Establish daily step objectives.
• Distance measurement: Monitor and record distances covered while running, riding, or walking activities.
• Analysis of sleep patterns: Gain insight into the quality of sleep.

Applications within the domain of education:

• Health and wellness education: Students get the opportunity to examine their own physiological reactions during physical exercises.
• Utilising fitness data for analysis promotes scientific inquiry and cultivates critical thinking skills.

 Augmented Reality Glasses

AR glasses superimpose digital information over the user's visual perception. While not as prevalent as smart watches, they show potential for enhancing education:

• AR glasses offer interactive learning experiences by providing instantaneous information during museum visits, historical excursions, or science projects.
• Students have the ability to access instructions, diagrams, or translations without needing to use their hands, allowing them to continue their duties uninterrupted.

Smart Clothing

Smart vests and other garments that contain sensors provide distinct opportunities:

• Biometric feedback: Vests have the capability to track and measure heart rate, posture, and stress levels.
• Gesture-based interaction: Students have the ability to manipulate gadgets through arm or finger movements.
• Educational Applications:
• Enhancing public speaking skills: Smart vests can offer immediate feedback on posture and anxiety levels.
• Physical education: The analysis of movement patterns contributes to the enhancement of sports skills.

Brain-Computer Interfaces [BCIs]

Brain-computer interfaces [BCIs] provide direct connection between the brain and external equipment. Although they are now in the initial phases, they possess significant potential:

• Mind-controlled applications: Envision pupils using a computer by directly controlling it with their minds.
• Assistive technology: Brain-computer interfaces [BCIs] have the potential to enhance the capabilities of those with physical limitations.

The benefits of wearable technology

Enhanced Learning Experiences

Wearable technology provides students with interactive learning experiences that go beyond the constraints of conventional textbooks and lectures [5]. AR glasses allow pupils to engage with virtual items that are superimposed into the physical environment, providing a practical means of visualising intricate ideas [1]. AR technology stimulates curiosity and promotes enhanced comprehension by activating multiple senses, enabling activities such as exploring the solar system and dissecting virtual animals [6].

Wearable sensors have been investigated for the purpose of monitoring attendance, behaviour, classroom involvement, and engagement[11]. These sensors are used to analyse physiological signals and emotional responses from learners in real-time. Additionally, they have the ability to be utilized to evaluate sleep quality, stress levels, and mental health in college students and children[12]. Wrist-worn gadgets have been examined as a method to deter academic cheating through monitoring. To optimise students' efficiency in educational settings, wristwatch applications provide notifications to inform students about the remaining time for tests and in-class tasks [4]. The current initiatives encompass the assessment of a reading glove and interactive maths games. A design space has been established for climbing activities using user-centric design [2].

Personalized Learning Pathways

An advantageous feature of wearable technology is its capacity to conform to the specific learning requirements and preferences of individual [10]. Smartwatches with biometric sensors can monitor students' physiological reactions, including heart rate and stress levels, offering important understanding of their cognitive functions [11]. Through the analysis of this data, educators may customise learning experiences to align with the individual strengths and difficulties of each student, therefore optimising their potential for academic achievement [9].

Real-Time Feedback and Assessment

Wearable gadgets enable instructors to deliver immediate feedback and evaluation, fundamentally transforming the monitoring and assessment of learning progress [6]. Smart glasses with eye-tracking technology may record students' gaze patterns while they engage in classroom activities, providing vital information on their levels of attention and understanding [1]. This data can provide valuable insights for educational practices, allowing educators to swiftly react when kids need more help or enrichment [7].

Promoting Active Learning and Collaboration

Wearable technology promotes active engagement and cooperation among students, creating a more dynamic and captivating learning atmosphere [6]. Wearable cameras enable students to record firsthand views of practical tasks and experiments, promoting collaborative learning and the exchange of information among peers[7;9]. Wearable microphones with speech recognition technology allow students to participate in interactive conversations and group activities, fostering teamwork and communication skills necessary for success in the digital world. In addition to personalised learning, wearables can significantly enhance student engagement[8]. Envision educational experiences that incorporate gamification, where students accumulate points for task completion, engage in physical fitness challenges, or collaborate on projects with the aid of augmented reality overlays [11]. These interactive components have the ability to convert passive learning into an active and gratifying experience, enhancing motivation and cultivating a passion for learning [5].

Addressing Accessibility and Inclusivity

In educational settings, There is the possibility that the utilisation of wearable technologies will eliminate obstacles to learning and to foster an environment that is more inclusive[7]. It is possible for students with impairments to have access to written materials in real time through the use of technologies such as smart glasses that are equipped with text-to-speech capabilities. This gives them the opportunity to engage fully in classroom activities. The same is true for wearable devices that use haptic feedback technology[10]. These gadgets can help tactile learners by giving them with physical sensations that improve their ability to comprehend and remember knowledge [1].

Beyond the Classroom Walls

Wearable devices have the ability to overcome the physical limitations of traditional classrooms. Virtual reality headsets enable students to be virtually transported to remote areas, enabling them to engage in the exploration of ancient sites, active participation in historical events, or the virtual dissection of frogs in three dimensions [3D] [12]. This fosters immersive educational experiences that beyond the limitations of textbooks and conventional lectures, facilitating a more profound comprehension and enhancing the range of curricular options.

Empowering Teachers and Facilitating Data-Driven Decisions

Real-time insights regarding student engagement and comprehension may be gained by teachers via the utilization of wearable technology[2]. The teachers are able to monitor the development of each individual student, identify kids who are having difficulty in real time, and change their instruction appropriately [1].. This strategy, which is driven by data, makes it possible to implement tailored interventions and guarantees that every student receives the assistance they require to achieve their goals [7].

Challenges and Considerations of Wearable Technology in Education

Wearable technologies possess the capacity to completely transform education, although their integration presents a series of obstacles and factors to be taken into account[9; 1]. One of the considerations is the confidentiality and protection.  That is, wearable gadgets gather sensitive data pertaining to students' behaviour, health, and whereabouts. Ensuring strong data protection is essential. Also, secrutity vulnerabilities can cause problems; in other words, devices are susceptible to hacking or unauthorised intrusion [5]. Cybersecurity should be given top priority by institutions. Wearable devices might be prohibitively expensive, so restricting access for economically disadvantaged pupils. In addition to that it is crucial and pivotal to provide equal availability of wearable technology among varied student groups.

It is possible to make significant use of wearable technologies in educational settings and in the classroom. where it may be beneficial to both the students and the teachers [11]. Educators require instruction on how to include wearables into their teaching methods in a productive manner. In addition to that, wearables should be in accordance with educational goals and curricular requirements. Additionally, certain instructors may exhibit resistance or lack proficiency with wearables. Students or learners may see wearables as obtrusive or distracting. What is more, obstacles of a technical nature may occur; for instance, wearables need regular recharging, which has an influence on their usage in the classroom. A dependable network connection is crucial for the immediate delivery of data. It is important to ensure that wearables integrate well with pre-existing educational technologies. It is pivotal not to forget about health and safety as ill-fitting wearables can cause discomfort and serve as a source of distraction for pupils and extended use may have adverse effects on posture or vision.

Looking Ahead: A Brighter Future for Learning

In spite of these obstacles, there is a promising future ahead for wearable technologies in educational settings. These revolutionary technologies have the potential to democratise education and offer a learning experience that is personalised, engaging, and data-driven for each and every student [2]. This promise is made possible by the ongoing evolution of technology and the subsequent drop in prices. If educators are willing to embrace this transformational technology, they will be able to unleash the full potential of their students and better prepare them for success in a world that is always changing [7].

Conclusion

In conclusion, wearable technology has great potential to revolutionise education in the modern classroom. These technologies are transforming education by improving learning experiences, enabling personalised instruction, facilitating collaboration, and encouraging diversity. As technology advances and educators explore the various uses of wearable technology, they can discover new ways to engage students and help them succeed in the digital era. These devices will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the future of education.

Although the potential of the use of wearable technologies in educational settings is considerable, there are still obstacles that need to be addressed. Thorough deliberation is necessary to address the cost, accessibility, and ethical implications related to data privacy and potential health hazards. In addition, successful integration necessitates teacher training and assistance to guarantee their efficient implementation in the classroom.

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