How does personalised learning through EdTech impact student engagement and academic outcomes, and what challenges arise with its use?

Personalised learning through EdTech boosts engagement and progress but poses challenges

Analysis

Personalised learning through educational technology (EdTech) is transforming how students engage with their learning. This approach uses digital platforms to tailor learning experiences to individual student needs, allowing them to progress at their own pace, reinforcing areas where they need support, and offering advanced material when they are ready for it. Personalised learning can increase student engagement and improve learning outcomes by fostering autonomy, motivation, and mastery (OECD, 2021).

EdTech tools such as adaptive learning software, AI-driven tutoring systems, and learning management systems (LMS) track student progress in real-time, offering customised content based on performance. This approach aligns with AITSL’s standards on using data to inform teaching practices, which emphasises differentiated instruction to meet diverse student needs. By analysing student data, these tools allow teachers to better understand individual strengths and weaknesses and adjust their instruction accordingly (AITSL, 2021).

However, implementing personalised learning through EdTech presents challenges. One of the major concerns is the digital divide, where students from disadvantaged backgrounds may not have reliable access to technology or high-speed internet. This gap can exacerbate inequities in education, leaving some students behind. Ensuring that all students have access to necessary devices and digital resources is crucial for the success of personalised learning initiatives (World Bank, 2021).

Another challenge is maintaining the balance between technology and human interaction in the classroom. While EdTech tools offer significant advantages in customisation and efficiency, over-reliance on technology may reduce opportunities for collaborative learning and teacher-student relationships. Personalised learning should complement, rather than replace, the role of teachers in fostering critical thinking, creativity, and interpersonal skills (EdTech Review, 2020).

Teachers also require adequate professional development to use personalised EdTech tools effectively. This includes training in data analysis, platform navigation, and the integration of technology into lesson plans. According to AITSL standards, teachers must engage in ongoing learning to ensure they are equipped with the skills to use new technologies in ways that improve student learning outcomes (AITSL, 2021). Without proper training, teachers may struggle to maximise the potential of personalised learning platforms.

Lastly, assessing the effectiveness of personalised learning is complex. Traditional assessments may not accurately measure the diverse learning experiences that personalised platforms offer. Teachers and schools need to adopt flexible assessment strategies, including formative assessments that track student progress throughout the learning process. EdTech tools can offer valuable insights into student growth through analytics, but these must be aligned with broader educational goals and standards (Grattan Institute, 2021).

Recommendations:
1. Address the Digital Divide: Schools must ensure equitable access to technology for all students, providing devices and resources to those in need, particularly in underserved communities.

2. Blended Approach: Balance personalised EdTech tools with traditional teaching methods, ensuring technology enhances, rather than replaces, teacher-student interactions and collaborative learning.

3. Teacher Training: Provide ongoing professional development for teachers on using EdTech tools effectively, ensuring they align with AITSL standards and support differentiated instruction.

4. Equitable Implementation: Ensure that personalised learning platforms are implemented fairly, taking into account diverse learning needs and providing additional support for students who may struggle.

5. Formative Assessments: Use a mix of formative and summative assessments, supported by data analytics from EdTech tools, to track student progress and measure learning outcomes.

6. Monitor Engagement: Continuously evaluate the impact of personalised learning on student engagement and outcomes, making adjustments where necessary to ensure that all students are progressing effectively.

7. Sustainability of EdTech Solutions: Schools should plan for the long-term sustainability of personalised learning platforms, ensuring that they remain adaptive to changing educational needs and technological advancements.

Conclusion:
Personalised learning through EdTech offers significant benefits in enhancing student engagement and providing tailored learning experiences. However, challenges such as equitable access, the role of teachers, and effective assessment must be addressed. By ensuring that personalised learning tools are implemented strategically and align with AITSL standards, schools can maximise their potential to improve educational outcomes for all students.

References

1. Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership. (2021). Australian Professional Standards for Teachers. Available from: AITSL

2. OECD. (2021). The Role of Personalised Learning in Modern Education: Opportunities and Challenges. Available from: OECD

3. World Bank. (2021). Addressing the Digital Divide in Education: Ensuring Equitable Access to Technology. Available from: World Bank

4. EdTech Review. (2020). Personalised Learning Through EdTech: Best Practices and Challenges. Available from: EdTech Review

5. Grattan Institute. (2021). Using Technology to Enhance Learning: Personalisation and Student Outcomes. Available from: Grattan Institute

A great TED Talk that aligns with the topic of personalised learning through EdTech is “Bring on the Learning Revolution!” by Ken Robinson. In this talk, Robinson focuses on personalising and customising learning for students, making education more relevant and engaging. His insights into tapping into students’ passions align well with the principles of personalised learning using educational technology.