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In 2010, a major shift in educational technology was spurred by the increased availability and affordability of tablet computers like the iPad. These devices made it easier for students to access educational apps and online learning resources on a portable device, impacting how students learned inside and outside the classroom.
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In 2011, the rise of affordable mobile devices like Chromebooks and the continued integration of tablets like iPads in the classroom played a significant role in the evolution of educational technology.
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In 2012, several events significantly propelled the evolution of educational technology. Key trends included the increasing focus on mobile learning, the rise of online learning platforms like Coursera and edX, and the growing prominence of digital textbooks and personalized learning.
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Google Classroom eventually became one of the most widely used Learning Management Systems (LMS), transforming K–12 and higher education with cloud-based, collaborative learning.
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In 2014, the evolution of educational technology saw a push towards incorporating technology into early childhood education and addressing the digital divide.
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In 2015, flipped learning technology and personalized learning platforms played a significant role in the evolution of educational technology. Flipped learning, which involves students watching lectures outside of class and completing homework in class, gained traction.
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In 2016, a significant event pushing the evolution of educational technology was the increasing focus on computer science education for all students, as declared by President Obama. This initiative aimed to prepare students for the digital economy. Another key trend was the rise of personalized learning
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In 2017 and 2018, virtual and augmented reality tools offered students experiences where they could learn immersive hands on activities
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In 2019, significant events that advanced educational technology included the growing adoption of AI and machine learning for personalization
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In 2020, the covid-19 pandemic forced a global shift to online learning. Video classrooms became the new default classrooms.