Educational technology has been seen for many years as a necessary part of upgrading education with the potential to create greater access to learners and empower educators in the classroom. But has EdTech lived up to its promises of access, ease and equity? What challenges does it still face? Tony Wan from Technology Trends suggests in his article, “What Problems Has Edtech Solved, and What New Ones Did It Create?” that technology has largely benefited classrooms everywhere.

The issue of accessibility and affordability have improved as the costs for technology have decreased. Chromebooks are easily found in many P-12 classrooms and its low cost and maintenance make it learner- and teacher-friendly. Most teachers are more comfortable with technology and curate the vehicles by which information is presented and engage their students. However, ever increasing stimulation to young minds presents a challenge to educators in how to steer young learners through the constant connectivity that social platforms demand and recognize how to establish healthy boundaries.

Surprisingly, video conferencing has been the “dark horse” in education that had the ability to empower educators and learners in new inspiring ways. Zoom and online collaboration allows students and teachers to share ideas and present information in new ways that also embed career related soft skills. Online collaboration can address 1:1 format of those students needing extra help to small and large group work.

The author presents personalized learning as the next big trend in education. I would hazard to say that personalized learning is already here and thriving especially in higher education. There are a plethora of online venues, colleges and universities that have evolved from just offering online classes to offering a complete program and credentialing online. I would think the rating of these multitude of options will be the next big thing in personalized learning. How does the consumer know that this credential or degree would have more weight and/or credibility than another? With so many choices and options, programs must stand out and offer something the consumer sees as necessary to their educational path.