From Zoom to classroom: IoT in educational spaces

As education was flung into an increasingly digital future by the COVID-19 pandemic, we all saw a little bit of what technology in education was capable of. Students already have a world of information available with the click of a computer trackpad, or the tap of a finger. However, the Internet of Things (IoT) may just expand to every desk in ways we've only begun to imagine.

Let's dive into this new technology space, the areas that have already been influenced and the possibilities that may stem from merging high quality IoT technology with the education of future generations.

The current role of IoT technology in education
Most learners, especially those in higher education, have moved from paper and pencil to screens. That's not to say that paper notes aren't still around, but it seems to mostly be based on personal preference. Professors and teachers at all stages of education are using digital games, learning tools and various other technological systems to engage and teach their students. Even younger students (from kindergarten upwards) are being exposed to new tech tools in the classroom. EdTech reports that 71% of teachers encouraged students to use the internet to research, and 64% used games to aid in learning targets.

This was all true prior to the pandemic. When circumstances led students to primarily use their laptops, internet connection and other technological devices, many students and schools rose to the challenge. While difficulties and drawbacks existed, and while the transition wasn't necessarily smooth for all participants, the fact remains that when pressed into the future of technology, students and teachers responded.

But what could technology, particularly IoT tools, in education look like if it was intentionally integrated into established systems? While this is a relatively new area, let's take a look at the advantages IoT can offer a classroom.

IoT tech within the classroom
The demand for Internet of Things tools is generally trending upwards, with user spending growing dramatically according to Statista.

IoT tech offers users cost-saving abilities across sectors, and education would be no different. Light tracking, temperature monitoring and controlling, and other IoT sensors can cut back on school spending.

Automated processes offer benefits to schools when it comes to tracking improvements, testing and even with daily classroom needs such as roll call. Imagine if an IoT system could identify which desks were empty at the start of each class! Much of teachers' and administrators' time is taken up by processes that could be automated with IoT tools. Education can be tracked, tabulated and recorded easily with programmable IoT tools, offering yet another example of how these customizable and automated systems can impact practically any industry.

Perhaps one of the more intriguing areas of IoT application is school safety. With human error as a large problem to completing and carefully executing security processes, IoT can fill in the gaps. Administrators and teachers would have much less on their plates if a threat to student and school safety triggered a protection plan and automated processes. The benefit of IoT technology in cases like these is that solutions are highly customizable, meaning that students and staff could be protected in the event of any emergency – from fire to tornado to intruder.

When securing automated processes for better school structures, educators can reach out to Perle for help. Fiber Media Converters future proof networks and benefit students of any educational establishment. Read Perle's education applications to find out more.