The field of education is in constant evolution. One thing seems to be certain, however, and this is that the personalized learning model continues to be one of the most popularly adopted new methods of learning.

Cell phones, iPads and other tablets that were once banned during class time, are now open for use. Teachers are adjusting to the changing world, from their pedagogy to the tools they use.

“I think we are going to see some drastic changes in education in the next 20 years,” said Perry Just, director of curriculum, instruction and assessment for Mandan Public Schools, according to the BismarckTribune.

The article predicts that the "Bring Your Own Device" method will probably flourish, and that with the various Learning Management Systems being adopted, snow days could also be a thing of the past.

However, is this the end of going to school? No. With new technology comes the responsibility of making sure students are using it as they should be. They need to be well-versed in all of the tools that enable them to have that enriching learning experience.

“I think teachers are going to be more needed because sifting through that information is more important than standing and lecturing,” Just said, according to the report.

Teachers now become facilitators, and while that label may seem as if it is relinquishing responsibility, the reality can be an even more challenging role. That’s not all.  Facilitation also means a new learning curve for the educator, which could include more time invested in professional development or general prep.

Ben Johnson, the assistant superintendent of Bismarck Public Schools, according to the report, reveals just what educators will be responsible for.

“Johnson said it’s important students have ample opportunities to follow their passions, whether through job shadowing, internships, extracurricular activities or taking specialized classes at a place such as the school district’s Career Academy,” according to the report.

“To accomplish that, she said it’s particularly important early childhood education providers, K-12 schools and the university system work together to ensure kids get the best start possible.”

Teachers may be labeled as facilitators as technology integration increases, however, what they are responsible for is far greater than that label implies.

Read the full story here.

Article by Navindra Persaud, Education World Contributor