Our 21st century is an age of change. Digital technology has touched every sector of our lives - and education has not been immune to this. In the new age, learning spaces like traditional classrooms have now expanded far beyond its four walls. For students, such spaces allow collaboration, interaction and discussions through technology that digitally connects the learners to knowledge sources all around the world.
Definition
Most educationists define virtual classroom as an online space that is non-restrictive for both learners and teachers. It allows participants to communicate and interact with one another, view presentations or videos on screens, and engage with resources in work groups.
And Global Indian International School is one of the pioneers in adapting this learning methodology in its SMART Campus. Here, students and teachers are not limited by each other geographical boundaries, where peers can connect from all over the world to collaborate.
This is achieved by two main tools: digital technology and student-centric educational practises.
Technology Creates Opportunity
It's one thing to read about a groundbreaking new scientific discovery in the news or to watch a video about it; it's quite another to talk to an actual scientist even though he or she lives continents away. The virtual classroom makes it happen.
Using advanced technology, like the one being used in the GIIS SMART Campus in Singapore, students have the ability to widen their worlds, to push back constraints like physical and economic shortcomings, and progress further than they ever imagined they could go.
An Immersive Experience
Collaboration with International Peers
Another benefit of the virtual classroom experience is the ability and opportunity to collaborate with peers from around the globe. Students get different perspectives, learn about different cultures, and can get a glimpse into how fellow students live, how they think, and how they learn.
Smart TVs installed in every classroom at the SMART Campus will be used for such experiences, like watching and participating in the GIIS's Leadership Lecture Series in Dubai while sitting in Singapore.
Advanced Understanding of Digital Technology
As they're learning about faraway places and people, students also gain valuable computer and digital skills they need to compete in a 21st century. Practicing with interactive online tools such as Google Suite and shared classrooms sharpen their digital skills and help students master ever-changing technology.
Using Augmented Reality app is one such tool that will enable interactive learning through internet applications while in classrooms. Augmented figures of human hearts, machinery etc can be studied using this method.
Ability to Record Classes
Virtual classes are recorded as they happen, allowing students to revisit them when it's time to brush up and review the material. This allows easy access to the material covered even when the student logs in from other locations such as home.
Highly Interactive
Online classes that happen in real time are also highly interactive. Students may have the ability to ask questions and have them answered by the virtual teacher right away. Students from varying cultures and geographic areas have the ability to talk to one another, brainstorm and troubleshoot solutions and ideals.
The virtual classroom is a classroom without limitations, and it's a formidable tool for today's students as they expand their minds and opportunities and open up doors that have traditionally been closed.