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The history of educational technology spans centuries, beginning with early human societies where knowledge was passed down orally through storytelling, memorization, and apprenticeship. During this pre-1440 period, learners used basic tools like clay tablets, slates, and charcoal to support their learning. -
A major turning point came in 1440, when Johannes Gutenberg invented the printing press. This innovation made books widely available, transforming education from an oral tradition to a text-based system. Printed materials became essential in classrooms, greatly enhancing access to knowledge. -
By the 1800s, formal public education systems were developing in many countries. Tools like chalkboards and textbooks became standard. Teachers began delivering structured lessons using visual aids, promoting rote learning and discipline. -
In the 1920s the rise of radio and film allowed schools to access educational programs and documentaries. For the first time, broadcasting made it possible to deliver lessons to large numbers of students, including those in remote areas. Educational radio, like BBC School Radio, was a key example of early distance learning. -
During the 1950s, television, film projectors, and slide presentations were introduced into classrooms. These tools brought a more visual and engaging dimension to education, supporting lessons in science, history, and language through audio-visual materials. -
The 1980s marked the arrival of personal computers in schools, such as the Apple II. Early software programs supported typing, math, and even coding skills through platforms like LOGO. This was the beginning of digital learning. -
By the 1990s, the internet became available in many schools, revolutionizing how students accessed information. Tools like email, web research, and CD-ROM learning materials helped shift education toward the digital age. -
In the 2000s, digital classrooms became the norm. Schools started using Learning Management Systems (LMS) like Moodle and Blackboard to assign homework, give online quizzes, and track student progress. Computers and projectors were now standard teaching tools. -
The 2010s saw the rise of mobile learning, as smartphones, tablets, and apps like Kahoot, Quizlet, and Google Classroom made learning more flexible and interactive. Students could now learn anywhere, anytime. -
The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 forced a global shift to remote learning. Platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet became essential tools for virtual classes. Teachers adopted digital resources and recorded lessons, while students adapted to learning from home.