RED BANK, New Jersey (Achieve3000, March 11, 2020). Some students sit at their desks wearing goggles as they explore inside a volcano. Other students wear headbands. They're using the power of their minds to make cars speed around a track. A robot rolls up to check out the race action. It's being controlled by a student across town.
Such a scene might remind you of science fiction. But guess what? Sights like these could someday be commonplace in classrooms. In fact, experts say it won't be long before super high-tech is the new normal in schools.
Take virtual reality (VR). It's expected to change field trips. VR's 3-D technology allows students to explore real places: from ancient ruins to outer space. With VR goggles or headsets, students can "visit" just about anywhere. No school bus necessary!
Some VR field trips take the experience to another level. Students can explore locations through avatars. They can also interact with avatars of other students who are exploring the same location!
In addition to virtual reality, robots are headed to classrooms. They'll act as peers and teachers. Some robots are already bringing high-tech engagement to schools. The robots use game-based methods to teach students. So learning feels like play. Robin, a human-like robot, uses games to teach languages. And Tega, a fluffy storytelling robot, helps students improve their vocabulary.
These high-tech helpers are doing even more. Robots are also helping students work with their classmates on days they can't go to school. The students make use of telepresence robots: tablet computers on wheels. They control the robots remotely. The robots can move around class. And the students can join the rest of their class using the robots' webcams.
Other technologies seem even more futuristic. One example looks like a simple headband. But this headband lets students power computer games. How? Using their minds! The headband records electrical signals from students' brains. Then, it sends those signals to a computer. The computer measures the students' brain signals while they complete different activities. Meanwhile, the brain signal measurements control the action on the screen. The signals can even move toy cars around a track!
Technology continues to shape the future. And, no surprise: Experts say new technologies will shape future classrooms. Whether they're making learning possible or just more fun, advanced technologies will no doubt become classroom game changers.
In what ways do you think schools might be different after classrooms get high-tech tools like robots? Use facts and details from the Article in your answer.
