As an online secondary school teacher, I have been able to gain some insight into the challenges currently facing learning technology and the ones that will continue to exist for some time. However, I have also been able to discuss some of the exciting innovations on the horizon. By far, the biggest challenge that I see affecting E-learning and other learning technologies over the next five years is academic dishonesty. This problem is already rampant throughout online learning programs. Students are able to post test questions onto websites such as Brainly and Jishka and get other students to answer them for them. They can also use programs to work out mathematical calculations, rephrase writing passages, look up information, etc.

In order to address this challenge, new innovations are needed. Luckily, some exciting features are on the horizon. This leads me to what I feel is the greatest opportunity upcoming in E-learning: personalization. Yes, some personalization already exists. However, the large majority of online tests and practice sets are not personalized. All students answer the same questions. If we are lucky, there may be a couple of test versions or a mixed up question order. In the future, though, AI will allow for true personalization at the individual level. AI will allow for each student to receive unique questions on their tests and practice assignments. No two students would have the same question. Not only would the student not be able to look up the answer, but if the student were to post the question online, the school/organization could identify exactly which student posted it. Personalization would also increase the availability of adaptive tests and practice sets that can quickly and accurately determine each student's ability level.

Another great opportunity for E-learning and TEELE is immersive learning environments. While virtual and augmented reality have been around for a while now, we are currently seeing a much greater focus being placed onto developing these technologies into learning tools. If we can truly tap into the potential of VR and AR technologies, we can create more realistic learning environments for students that can result in more authentic learning. We may even start seeing more haptic devices and other multisensory devices used in these environments as well.

Of course, the biggest roadblock to implementing personalization and immersive learning environments is money. Currently, the tools that exist for these features are very expensive. Most schools and businesses cannot realistically implement these tools into their programs given the costs. It will take time and continued development to make these technologies affordable enough to become mainstream and widespread. Care needs to be taken, though, so that developers do not cut corners in order to artifically reduce costs. A lot of poor curriculum currently exists due to attempts to decrease costs. Proper and thorough instructional design remains a critical component of learning programs despite the need to make programs more affordable.

How would you reply to this post?