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Earlier this week, IBM announced their “5 in 5,” which are their predictions for technology and advancements in the next five years. The first of these is a prediction that I, personally, would love to see come true: “The classroom will learn you.” But what does that mean and why is it an amazing prospect?
The basic idea is that, using analytics in the form of “longitudinal data,” teachers will be able to target a student’s individual learning strengths from the outset, helping them to get the most out of a given curriculum. By using data points such as test scores, attendance records, and behavior patterns on electronic learning platforms in addition to aptitude tests, teachers will have unprecedented insight into a student, their unique learning patterns and obstacles. This puts customized information on how to help indivitual students right at a teacher’s fingertips.
Analytics and big data are being utilized more to make our lives easier and more efficient. We see their effects and results everywhere from shopping online, to sports, to movies, and even in the music industry. They bolster sales, extend reach, and streamline user experience. It sounds wonderful that they might now be used to increase graduation rates, detect learning disabilities early, and spur educational growth at all grade levels.
There was an initial worry that this sort of thing would replace teachers and remove the human element from classrooms, but in reality, this would be a tool that would require that human element in order to function correctly. Analytics, no matter how deep and powerful they are, will always need the skilled touch of a human to leverage them.
As a parent, I’m excited for this prediction and hope to see it manifest in a safe, secure, and – most of all – beneficial way for all of our teachers everywhere.
