Ed3 Weekly Issue #58: A Web3 Potpourri
From AI to VR, to the metaverse, web3 promises a whole new way of learning
Hello web3 and education frens,
Welcome to all my new subscribers from this past week. If you haven’t subscribed yet, click here, or use the button below to join hundreds of others learning about the intersection of web3 and education.
I made this meme a few weeks ago and I think it sums up the current state of the “what is web3 discussion” petty well.
There have been debates about what is web3 and how will this impact education and what are the use cases. We have reached a turning point (or Turing point?) in which AI puts things into a clearer perspective. We all know that this technology is transformative. Some are even saying it is dangerous.
The purpose of this newsletter is not to debate the merits of these technologies or to drive and define what they are or are not. My goal has always been to share curated resources so you can better educate yourself on their use.
This week I have a nice variety of topics to share, from AI, to metaverse, and VR. Here is what you will find linked below:
📑 UNESCO announces a new roadmap to chart a safer digital path for all.
🏫 Predictions for the impact of AI in the next 10 years.
🥽 How students can use VR technology to improve educational performance
🌐 Four guidelines for the implementation of learning that uses immersive technology
The AI Reports are Here
Image by Unsplash/D koi
There are a number of reports emerging about AI coming from various sources, including government agencies, non-profits, and educational consulting agencies. AI is on everyone's mind, making it an opportune time to upskill oneself in this field. What I appreciate about the work linked in this article by UNESCO is its primary focus on the impact that AI will have on our young learners. UNESCO is also developing policy guidelines on the use of generative AI in education and research, along with frameworks of AI competencies for students and teachers in classrooms.
More on the Impact of AI on Our K-12 Schools
Image by DigitalVision Vectors
This article expands on a previous interview conducted by Education Weekly, which was featured in Issue 55. The author explores the perspectives of various technologists, researchers, policymakers, and educators from higher education and educational organizations regarding their predictions for the impact of AI in the next 10 years.
The experts' viewpoints vary, with some suggesting that AI will serve as a personal robotic tutor, while others emphasize the importance of understanding the psychology of intelligence. Some also highlight the urgency for technology to advance rapidly to meet the demands of an AI-driven world. Regardless of the specific future scenarios, it is evident that our educational systems will need to adapt to accommodate the influence of AI.
Elevating Teaching and Learning with VR
Image by AR Insider Weekly
In this article by AR Insider, the potential of augmented reality (AR) to revolutionize learning is explored in nine compelling ways. By leveraging AR technology, educators can create immersive and interactive learning experiences that captivate students, foster deeper understanding, and provide a dynamic platform for collaborative learning. The possibilities of AR in education are vast, opening up new avenues for transformative and engaging learning experiences. Here are the nine ways that AR can support learning:
Teach Abstract Topics
Enhance Problem-Solving
Simplify Complex Subjects
Eliminate Learning Difficulties
Enhances Engagement and Motivation
Improves Retention and Comprehension
Offers a Safe and Controlled Environment
Is Accessible
Promotes Peer Interaction
The Power of Immersive Environments for Learning
Research is emerging supporting the idea that students learn better when placed in immersive environments. This article in Getting Smart by yours truly is part 1 in a two-part series that explores four guidelines for the implementation of learning that uses immersive technology.
The title of this “test” is the “Ready Player One” test. This was chosen to remind us of the dystopian future that is possible if we do not correctly navigate these next 20 years. The parts of the Ready Player One Test are listed below, with proceeding sections that will expand on each item in more detail.
Does it allow learners to immerse themselves in environments that would be too expensive or dangerous to experience otherwise?
Can the learning be personalized by the student?
Is it regenerative?
Does it allow for learning to happen non-linearly, at any time and any place?
Stay tuned for part 2 coming soon!
Thank you for stopping by for another issue of my web3🤝education newsletter. If you’re on LinkedIn you can check out a version of this newsletter on my LinkedIn page and give me a follow. You can also link to all my work by checking out my blog or give me a follow on Twitter.