Redefining Learning for a New Generation

The rapid advancement of technology and social change is transforming traditional education, and redefining teaching and learning methods in Nepal and globally. This article explores the evolution of education, aiming to tailor learning experiences to stu

Historical Context

Historically, education systems have mirrored the economic structures of their times. Schooling was very different when the economy was centered around agriculture than during the Industrial Revolution. Today, as digital technologies permeate every aspect of life, we witness a significant shift in learning and educating the next generation. Education has already moved away from one-size-fits-all models. We are moving to models emphasizing flexibility, critical thinking, problem-solving, and lifelong learning. However, finding a new way to educate quickly poses many more questions than answers.

The Catalysts of Change

Several elements are helping transform the current state of education. Let's look at some vital forces that are driving the transformation of education:

Technological Innovations: Artificial intelligence is challenging the core of knowledge centers like schools and colleges that have been the source of modern-day education. Artificial intelligence and subsequent education technologies are not merely tools but foundational elements reshaping the educational landscape. These technologies facilitate personalized learning experiences that adapt in real-time, ensuring that each student can learn in a manner that best suits their individual needs and speeds. A lot of the work in AI is still in progress, but we see new progress every day.

Globalization: We live in a world where internet access is better than access to clean drinking water. This reality has allowed us to stay connected with people and opportunities worldwide. We know more about the world than we have ever done. However, this also increases the demand for a curriculum to create globally aware graduates.

The half-life of knowledge: The half-life of knowledge is the period until the knowledge we acquire can be relevant professionally. In 1950, the half-life of knowledge was around 30 years—whatever we studied today would work for us for 30 years. By 2010, that was five years; by 2023, it was 3.5 years. With AI's advancement, we will reach a point when the half-life of knowledge could be less than a year. This progress will pose questions about our ability to learn and adapt quickly. Moving forward, the more critical skill will be our ability to adapt to scenarios than our ability to gather knowledge.

Innovative Educational Models

The current reality and the catalysts of change are challenging the core of the current education model, which includes students listening to someone speak for long hours. Deep familiarity with technology, resilience, the ability to learn new things, and adaptability are some important skills of this new digital age, and our educational models should be able to address them. Let's look at some examples of models that can support a student's development in the current reality.

Flipped Classrooms and Hybrid Learning: These models reverse the typical structure of classroom learning. By leveraging digital tools, students engage with new material at home and use classroom time for collaborative projects and hands-on problem-solving, enriching their learning experience and enhancing retention. Flipped classrooms can be challenging for the students as their workload can significantly increase. However, the ability to learn new things quickly is going to be very critical from here on.

Problem-Based Learning: Beyond theoretical knowledge and disconnected project-based learning, educational institutes increasingly implement curricula emphasizing real-world problem-solving. Students undertake projects that require creative solutions to complex problems, preparing them for the challenges of the modern workforce. The focus here is on adapting to a problem's needs and being resilient until we deliver economic or social value.

Redefining Roles: Teachers and Institutions

The catalysts of change and the evolving education model also push us to redefine the roles of teachers and educational institutions. These roles have been quite similar for the majority of their existence, and we have finally come to a time when that is being seriously challenged.

Teachers as Coaches: With the rise of personalized learning technologies, teachers are transitioning from primary knowledge holders to guides facilitating learning experiences. This shift allows educators to focus more on mentoring and less on lecturing, enhancing the educational experience. We as teachers can equip ourselves with coaching skills that enable us to host transformation in learners rather than fixing them to a set educational standard.

Institutions as Catalysts for Innovation: Schools and universities are transforming into innovation hubs, adopting new technologies and pedagogical strategies that prepare students for lifelong learning and adaptability. These institutes can support innovation, like how incubators support new business ideas. This reality is even more significant in countries like Nepal, where much research supporting home-grown commercial solutions has yet to become a reality.

New Metrics of Success

Educational models are evolving, leading to the shift from traditional grades to continuous assessment models and digital portfolios. These models provide a holistic view of student achievements, focusing on skills, competencies, and creative and intellectual milestones. Students should focus on solving significant problems and working with others, rather than just achieving a traditional degree, as solving more significant problems increases their social and economic value.

Supporting Global Competitiveness: The Role of Parents in Nepal

In countries like Nepal, where access to high-quality resources is limited, parents play a crucial role in their children's education. Conversations about assimilating learning between parents and children are essential for skill transfer and building a resilient relationship. Scheduling and making these conversations a norm is recommended to ensure continuous access to high-quality resources and support for new-age education.

Call to Action

We live in a time when everyone's efforts are required to create a new form of education that can serve the next generation well. The new age presents us with some exciting possibilities. However, we are far from equipping the next generation with the skills they need to thrive. Some work is being done. Let's do our part to accelerate this change and adoption.

 

Introduction: Alok Khatri is a passionate educator. He is the co-founder of Tangible Careers. A company built for Social Good through Talent Development. He is also an International Coach Federation certified coach (ICF-ACC) with over 10 years of coaching experience. He has traveled and worked in more than 30 countries. He has coached people from more than 15 countries.