With the advent of the digital age and the constant improvement of information technology, educational institutions and teachers face the challenge of adapting their teaching methods to modern requirements and learning practices. In this context, interactive learning in an electronic environment is a key tool for improving the quality of education. This article will consider methods and possibilities for successful implementation of interactive learning in an electronic environment taking into account the recommendations of the European Union, and here you will find an analysis of increasing digital competences in the context of DigComp 2.2 (March, 2022).
Our mission is to facilitate recognition and transition between education systems and learning, among teachers and students. Using a variety of technologies and online platforms, we provide engaging and personalized training, we include digital learning modules, educational games, virtual reality and other interactive methods in our approach.
Within the framework of the European Qualifications Framework (EQF), the knowledge that a person possesses in a given field is defined as theoretical and factual. This includes the theoretical foundations and facts related to a particular discipline or field of knowledge.
Skills, according to the EQF, include both cognitive and practical aspects. Cognitive skills include the use of logical, intuitive, and creative thinking to solve problems and apply knowledge to specific situations.
Practical skills refer to the dexterity and ability to use materials, appliances and tools in real-life circumstances.
Responsibility and autonomy, according to the EQF, are described as the learner's ability to apply their knowledge and skills independently and responsibly. This aspect emphasizes the importance of the learner being able to use their competencies in real situations and to take responsibility for their actions and decisions.
One of the most stunning technologies contributing to the enrichment of interactive learning and the achievement of the commitments made by EU Member States in terms of EQF are 360° video and augmented reality (VR) panoramas.
Advantages of interactive learning
Interactive learning is an educational approach that builds learning on the active interaction between students and the learning environment. The term comes from the English word "interaction". It focuses on stimulating the active participation and engagement of students during the learning process.
At the heart of interactive learning is the idea that learning becomes more effective when students are actively involved in the learning process rather than just receiving information. In this learning environment, learning is seen as a process of building knowledge and developing skills through experience and interaction.
Added value for education
How 360° video and panoramas for educational purposes and virtual reality in general add value in modern education and why new learning methods will be developed and applied more and more? We give summarized answers to these questions below.
We aim to promote opportunities for digital transformation of the education sector, by addressing the needs of teachers, educational content creators and youth, and developing guidelines for creating educational content through spatial visualizations.
We strive to ensure the sustainability of our projects that we do for you and to continue the development of the educational platform IEDU360.EU, as well as the 360 degree spatial image bank 360image.net, where you can also find many resources for your work as teachers, such as students and as consumers.
These are three questionnaires. The questionnaires are in English, but can be filled in in Bulgarian. We share them with you because it is important for us to know what your opinion and view is on the problems and opportunities in education:
What are the main advantages of learning in an electronic environment:
1. Better engagement and motivation
Interactive lessons and learning materials are more fun and engaging for students. They stimulate students to interact with the learning material and actively engage with it.
2. Personalized training
E-learning platforms can adapt lessons to the individual needs and pace of students. This allows everyone to progress at their own pace and receive personalized support.
3. Better accessibility
Interactive learning is available anytime and anywhere with an internet connection. This increases the flexibility of education and allows students to study at their own convenience.
4. More efficient absorption of information
Research shows that interactive learning can improve learning and retention of information due to the active involvement of students and the use of a variety of methods.
Methods
1. Study Modules and Programs
Creating interactive learning modules and programs is an effective way to deliver educational content. These modules may include multimedia elements, quizzes, visualizations, and assignments that require student participation.
For example, interactive simulations and animations allow students to visualize abstract concepts and understand complex processes through trial and experimentation. Interactive quizzes can be presented in a variety of formats, including multiple choice, short answer, true/false, and more. Students can solve the questions online and get instant feedback.
2. Online Educational Games
Educational games are a fun and effective way to learn. They can simulate real situations and encourage problem thinking and solving. They have the potential to improve various skills and competencies such as cognitive skills, communication skills, problem solving and critical thinking to make moral and responsible decisions.
3. Virtual Reality (VR)
The use of virtual reality in education allows primary/secondary school pupils and students to enter virtual environments and experience learning scenarios in a more realistic way. For example, virtual reality (VR) allows students to conduct scientific experiments in virtual laboratories without the danger of exposure to real risks.
VR also has applications in corporate training and workplace training by conducting workplace safety simulations or online entrepreneurship training where managers can develop their decision-making and team management skills through simulations in a virtual environment. The analysis and plans that the online platform provides can shoot any entrepreneur straight to the top of success!
Game of Business is the best platform for hands-on entrepreneurship training. The know-see-do approach ensures that users not only gain knowledge, but also progress towards acquiring key entrepreneurial skills aligned with the EntreComp framework.
4. Social Networks and Forums
Creating online learning communities where students can share opinions, questions, and resources is an important aspect of interactive learning. Forums and social networks can support the exchange of knowledge and experience between students.
5. Interactive Lessons in Real Time
Virtual classrooms and video conferencing platforms provide real-time interactive learning. Students and teachers can connect from different locations and conduct interactive lessons.
6. Self-Assessment and Feedback
Interactive educational platforms allow students to self-assess and receive feedback on their work. This process of assessment and feedback helps students understand their strengths and weaknesses and develop more effectively.
7. Global Educational Opportunities
The Internet provides the opportunity to collaborate with teachers and students from all over the world. Participation in international educational projects and exchange of ideas can enrich the educational experience and broaden students' horizons.
The EU promotes the development of digital skills and competences among students and teachers. Global educational opportunities facilitate the dissemination of these skills through distance learning and the use of online educational resources.
Critical thinking and intercultural communication - priorities that are essential for the EU - undoubtedly communicate VR as a method of the future for learning. Virtual reality creates situations where students have to understand and overcome stereotypes and prejudices. They can experience and appreciate different perspectives, develop their ability to analyze and be aware of disagreements or differences.
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