Education Technology

Educational technology (commonly abbreviated as edutech, or edtech) is the combined use of computer hardware, software, and educational theory and practice to facilitate learning and teaching.When referred to with its abbreviation, "EdTech", it often refers to the ndustry of companies that create educational technology.In EdTech Inc.: Selling, Automating and Globalizing Higher Education in the Digital Age, Tanner Mirrlees and Shahid Alvi (2019) argue "EdTech is no exception to industry ownership and market rules" and "define the EdTech industries as all the privately owned companies currently involved in the financing, production and distribution of commercial hardware, software, cultural goods, services and platforms for the educational market with the goal of turning a profit. Many of these companies are US-based and rapidly expanding into educational markets across North America, and increasingly growing all over the world.

In addition to the practical educational experience, educational technology is based on theoretical knowledge from various disciplines such as communication, education, psychology, sociology, artificial intelligence, and computer science.It encompasses several domains including learning theory, computer-based training, online learning, and m-learning where mobile technologies are used.

Quality Education

Progress towards quality education was already slower than required before the COVID‑19 pandemic further slowed gains. Global completion rates have risen only modestly since 2015 and learning proficiency remains low.

As of 2023, 272  million children and youth were out of school, up 3 per cent since 2015 and disproportionately concentrated in low‑income countries.

In addition to free primary and secondary schooling for all boys and girls by 2030, the aim is to provide equal access to affordable vocational training, eliminate gender and wealth disparities, and achieve universal access to quality higher education.

Education is the key that will allow many other Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to be achieved. When people are able to get quality education they can break from the cycle of poverty.

Education helps to reduce inequalities and to reach gender equality. It also empowers people everywhere to live more healthy and sustainable lives. Education is also crucial to fostering tolerance between people and contributes to more peaceful societies.

To deliver on Goal 4, education financing must become a national investment priority. Furthermore, measures such as making education free and compulsory, increasing the number of teachers, improving basic school infrastructure and embracing digital transformation are essential.

What progress have we made so far?

While progress has been made towards the 2030 education targets set by the United Nations, continued efforts are required to address persistent challenges and ensure that quality education is accessible to all, leaving no one behind.

Between 2015 and 2024, the primary school completion rate increased from 85 to 88 per cent, the lower secondary completion rate from 74 to 78 per cent, and the upper secondary completion rate from 53 to 60 per cent. However, only two in three children in sub-Saharan Africa complete primary school on time.

What challenges remain?

In 2019, only 58% of children achieved minimum reading proficiency, and just 44% reached minimum mathematics proficiency by the end of primary school. Between 2018 and 2022, proficiency levels among lower-secondary students declined further—dropping by 15 points in mathematics and 10 points in reading.

Despite basic services in schools being essential for fair learning opportunities, progress has been slow, particularly affecting students with disabilities and girls. Globally, only half of primary schoolshave basic infrastructure for students with disabilities.

Economic constraints, coupled with issues of learning outcomes and dropout rates, persist in marginalized areas, underscoring the need for continued global commitment to ensuring inclusive and equitable education for all. Low levels of information and communications technology (ICT) skills are also a major barrier to achieving universal and meaningful connectivity.

Where are people struggling the most to have access to education?

Least developed countries faces the biggest challenges in providing schools with basic resources. The situation is extreme at the primary level, where over a third of schools lack basic sanitation, more than half lack electricity and over two thirds lack digital tools.

Inequalities will also worsen unless the digital divide – the gap between under-connected and highly digitalized countries – is not addressed.

Are there groups that have more difficult access to education?

Yes, women and girls are one of these groups. About 40 per cent of countries have not achieved gender parity in primary education. These disadvantages in education also translate into lack of access to skills and limited opportunities in the labour market for young women.

What can we do? 

To deliver on Goal 4, education financing must become a national investment priority. Furthermore, measures such as making education free and compulsory, increasing the number of teachers, improving basic school infrastructure and embracing digital transformation are essential. We can aAsk our governments to place education as a priority in both policy and practice. Lobby our governments to make firm commitments to provide free primary school education to all, including vulnerable or marginalized groups.

Importance

Education is vital for both individual and societal advancement. It empowers individuals with knowledge, critical thinking skills, and the ability to adapt to change, leading to better job opportunities, personal growth, and a more fulfilling life. Furthermore, education fuels economic growth, reduces poverty and inequality, promotes equality, and fosters innovation and progress on a broader scale. 

Here's a more detailed look at the importance of education:

For Individuals:

Personal Growth:

Education enhances self-awareness, builds confidence, and fosters personal development. 

Career Opportunities:

It opens doors to better jobs, higher salaries, and increased financial security. 

Improved Decision-Making:

Education equips individuals with critical thinking skills, enabling them to make informed choices in various aspects of life. 

Healthier Lifestyle:

Education can promote healthier habits and a better understanding of health-related issues. 

Social Skills:

It helps develop communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills, crucial for navigating social situations. 

Fulfilling Life:

Education can help individuals discover their passions and pursue a more meaningful life. 

For Society:

Economic Growth:

Education is a key driver of economic development, fostering innovation and productivity. 

Poverty Reduction:

Education empowers individuals with the skills and knowledge to escape poverty and improve their socioeconomic standing. 

Equality and Inclusion:

Education can help reduce inequality by providing opportunities for all, regardless of background. 

Social Progress:

It fosters critical thinking, informed citizenship, and active participation in democratic processes. 

Innovation and Progress:

Education is essential for technological advancements, scientific breakthroughs, and solving complex global challenges. 

Peace and Stability:

Education promotes understanding, tolerance, and cooperation, contributing to a more peaceful and stable society. 

In essence, education is a powerful force that transforms individuals and societies, enabling them to thrive in an ever-changing world. 

Edu in Maharashtra

Modern education was introduced to Maharashtra region during the 19th century by British colonial administration. Census of 2011 showed literacy rates in the state for males and females were around 78% and 67% respectively.Education at different levels in the state is provided by the state, government supported charities, or private institutions. There are also a number of institutes offering vocational training.

Eduneeds

EDuneeds is a company in Pune, India, with two main focuses: educational toys and educational consulting. They offer a wide range of educational toys for children of all ages, aiming to enhance their intellect and capabilities. Eduneeds also provides educational consulting services, guiding students on career paths and university admissions. 

Eduneeds as a Supplier of Educational Toys:

Wide Range:

Eduneeds offers a variety of educational toys, including pre-school furniture, storage racks, classroom furniture, telescopes, binoculars, and indoor/outdoor play equipment. 

Skill Development:

The toys are designed to develop children's perception, logical thinking, and other skills like eye-hand coordination, brain development, and fine motor skills. 

Supplying to Schools and Creches:

Eduneeds has supplied its products to over 2000 schools and 25+ creches. 

Manufacturing and Sourcing:

Eduneeds is involved in both the manufacturing and sourcing of educational toys, partnering with reputed brands. 

Physical Stores:

Eduneeds has multiple stores in Pune, including locations in Sahakar Nagar and Baner. 

Eduneeds as an Education Consultant:

Career and University Guidance:

Eduneeds Consultants provides guidance to students on career choices and university admissions.

Established in 2010:

The consultancy was established in 2010.

Focus on Student Success:

Eduneeds aims to provide students with the right education and career guidance to transform their lives and help them succeed.

Professional Guidance:

The consultancy offers professional guidance and aims to provide students with a hassle-free admission process.

Educational technology

Educational technology (commonly abbreviated as edutech, or edtech) is the combined use of computer hardware, software, and educational theory and practice to facilitate learning and teaching. When referred to with its abbreviation, "EdTech", it often refers to the industry of companies that create educational technology. In EdTech Inc.: Selling, Automating and Globalizing Higher Education in the Digital Age, Tanner Mirrlees and Shahid Alvi (2019) argue "EdTech is no exception to industry ownership and market rules" and "define the EdTech industries as all the privately owned companies currently involved in the financing, production and distribution of commercial hardware, software, cultural goods, services and platforms for the educational market with the goal of turning a profit. Many of these companies are US-based and rapidly expanding into educational markets across North America, and increasingly growing all over the world."

In addition to the practical educational experience, educational technology is based on theoretical knowledge from various disciplines such as communication, education, psychology, sociology, artificial intelligence, and computer science. It encompasses several domains including learning theory, computer-based training, online learning, and m-learning where mobile technologies are used. 

History of education

The history of education, like other history, extends at least as far back as the first written records recovered from ancient civilizations. Historical studies have included virtually every nation.The earliest known formal school was developed in Egypt's Middle Kingdom under the direction of Kheti, treasurer to Mentuhotep II (2061–2010 BC). In ancient India, education was mainly imparted through the Vedic and Buddhist learning system, while the first education system in ancient China was created in Xia dynasty (2076–1600 BC). In the city-states of ancient Greece, most education was private, except in Sparta. For example, in Athens, during the 5th and 4th century BC, aside from two years military training, the state played little part in schooling. The first schools in Ancient Rome arose by the middle of the 4th century BC.