By Chitranshu Mahant
Access to digital learning tools has always been crucial for students of all ages, but with the advent of the digital era, it has become increasingly important. Today, students need technology to access educational resources, communicate with their peers and teachers, and complete assignments. However, the high cost of technology has long been a significant barrier for many families, especially in developing countries. This digital divide has led to unequal educational opportunities, where students from low-income families are less likely to have access to computers and the Internet.
In recent years, there has been growing recognition of the need to address this digital divide and make educational technology more affordable and accessible. This has led to the development of budget-friendly devices specifically designed for learning and education. These devices are not only affordable but also of top-notch quality, tailored to meet the needs of the education industry, with features such as portability, long battery life, customized learning software, and an affordable price.
These devices are lightweight and easy to carry, making them ideal for students who need to move around frequently. The long-lasting batteries are handy for students who may need access to electricity or need to use their devices for extended periods. The customized learning software enhances the learning experience and makes it more interactive and engaging. Additionally, they are priced lower than their international counterparts, making them accessible to a larger population segment.
The introduction of affordable technology has significantly impacted the education sector, enabling students from all backgrounds to access digital learning tools and significantly reducing the cost of education. Governments and educational institutions have recognized the importance of these devices and taken steps to provide them to students in schools and colleges. For example, the Indian government has launched the Digital India Initiative, which aims to provide digital infrastructure and services to all citizens, including digital literacy, e-education, and e-healthcare. As part of this initiative, the government has distributed free tablets to students in government schools to promote digital learning. Similarly, the Kenyan government has launched the Digital Literacy Program to provide every primary school child with a digital device and internet connectivity.
Moreover, the development of affordable technology has created job opportunities for people in the manufacturing and service sectors, contributing to the economy’s growth. This has paved the way for more such initiatives in the future. However, the digital divide remains a significant issue in many parts of the world, and many students still need access to educational technology. Therefore, governments and organizations must work together to bridge this gap and ensure all students can access the tools they need to succeed.
In response, many organizations have launched initiatives to provide digital devices and internet connectivity to needy students. For example, UNESCO launched the Global Education Coalition to facilitate inclusive learning opportunities for children and youth during the COVID-19 pandemic. The coalition brings together governments, private sector partners, and international organizations to provide digital learning resources to students in need.
Moreover, the dire need for tech to eliminate the digital divide has highlighted the need for digital literacy and skills among students and teachers. Many teachers have had to adapt to online teaching and learning, which requires different skills than traditional teaching methods. Similarly, students have had to learn to use digital tools and resources effectively to continue their education.
In conclusion, affordable technology of top-notch quality has the potential to level the playing field in education and create equal opportunities for students from all backgrounds. The development of budget-friendly devices specifically designed for learning and education has brought down the cost of education and made digital learning tools available to a larger population. By continuing to invest in affordable technology, we can help bridge the digital gap and provide students with the tools they need to succeed in today’s digital era. However, much work must be done to ensure that all students can access educational technology and resources. Governments and organizations must work together to address the digital gap and provide students with the skills and resources they need to succeed in a digital world.
The author is the CEO and Co-Founder, Primebook.