Instead of prohibiting students from using electronic devices in class, capitalize on their technological prowess by providing them with online tools that will assist them in completing tasks while also engaging them. This is what schools should start doing. However, since the COVID-19 pandemic, we have started to imply open distance learning for all school students and university students which include those who are taking a diploma in nursing course in Malaysia.
What additional technologies are available for the modern student, aside from computers, tablets, e-readers, and smartphones, and how might they assist, encourage and accelerate learning?
1. Flash Drives
Flash drives are an enormously more portable solution to transport folder collections. The flash drive is an encrypted USB drive that may be used to replace not just a folder system but also the combination lock that hung from your high school locker. Flash drives are just as important as cloud storage because it is used to keep your data but in a physical storage. It is important especially if you are living in a place that has weak internet connection. It is safer to save everything that way.
2. Tablet or iPad
This is surely not a must because the price can get up to RM 4000 if you want tablets with the best quality. Using a tablet for class or studying is so convenient as it is way smaller and lightweight than your laptop or computer. It is the best choice if you have extra money so you can use it for note taking or editing if your works require videos or presentations. You can draw, write, type and also take pictures using tablets or iPad and most importantly they are portable.
3. Bluetooth keyboards
If you buy a laptop or computer, you surely will get the keyboard along with it. Bluetooth keyboard is important especially when your laptop’s keyboard is not comfortable. If you have been using the same keyboard for a long time and it hurts your hand using it, you might want to change. Owning a tablet means you will get all screens; touchscreen. A Bluetooth keyboard is essential if you want to have a better typing experience. You can get it from as low as RM 47 from Shopee and it usually is of good quality.
4. Drawing tablet
This is the substitute for a tablet or iPad if you have quite a limited budget. It has the same purpose of a tablet which is used for drawings or note taking but in a way cheaper price. You just have to connect the drawing tablet to your laptop or computer and you are good to go. This is a very interesting purchase if you are a teacher or medical or architecture student because it eases your drawing and writing process.
5. Cloud storage
This might seem unnecessary but it actually is. Being a student, especially during a pandemic in which you will have to experience open distance learning or online learning is quite inconvenient because you will have a lot of notes and exercises that will be given through an online platform. Cloud storages are free for a certain amount of storage and you can always purchase any upgrades.
These technologies are important for some and might just be a ‘need’ for other people but you should try and you will have better teaching and learning experience.