This post is provided by guest blogger, Samerah Saad, graduate student University of St. Francis, MS Talent Development program. 

Barbetta (2022) summarizes how active learning by digital tools can enhance learner outcomes by promoting collaboration and engagement. One focus includes the concept of Education 5.0 to discuss the learner-centric outcomes and focus on student well-being adapted to be more inclusive on a holistic level. The utilization of artificial intelligence to amplify learning experiences supports increased rates of engagement. The author supports their theory by data found in gamification approaches without losing sight of ethical concerns on data privacy. They also provide a framework for implementation to include cross-disciplinary collaboration with artificial intelligence. 

I enjoyed the inclusive mentions to emphasis accessibility and a holistic approach for learning. Barbetta focused on lower-cost options such as presentations adaptations and peer learning sessions. However, I am concerned about the sufficiency these tools will provide since it will take from the direct approach from traditional means. Active listening or proper absorption on niche topics from the peer-turned-teacher doesn’t guarantee adequate results. I would have enjoyed specific examples, with their effectiveness, of how technology can boost current programs with relative ease to provide the reader with an actionable insight to more realistically integrate.  

Reference: 

Barbetta, P. M. (2022). Technologies as tools to increase active learning during online higher-education instruction. Journal of Educational Technology Systems, 51(3), 317–339. https://doi.org/10.1177/00472395221143969