Inauguration of National Conference on Educational Technology: Experts Emphasize the Need for Experiential Learning and Responsible Use of Technology
The two-day national conference on “Trends and Insights in Educational Technology Post-NEP 2020” was inaugurated on 10 February 2025 by Shri Jishnu Dev Varma, Hon’ble Governor of Telangana and Chief Rector of the University of Hyderabad (UoH) in the presence of Prof. B. J. Rao, Vice Chancellor, UoH; Smt. Usha Subramanian, Professor at Chanakya University, Bengaluru and other dignitaries today at the University of Hyderabad. The conference, organized by the Department of Education and Education Technology, School of Social Sciences and sponsored by Institution of Eminence (IoE), brought together experts from across the country to discuss the latest trends and insights in educational technology.
In his keynote address, Shri Jishnu Dev Varma emphasized the importance of education in energizing the youth. He spoke about the traditional Indian education system, which emphasizes the guru-sisya parampara (teacher-student relationship). He said that NEP is a historic step for the future of the nation and a roadmap to empower every child. He also highlighted the need for responsible use of technology, stating that it can be used for both good and bad.
While concluding he said that Education teaches us how to use technology for the benefit of mankind and it embodies the spirit of exponential learning. He also said that the conference deliberations should open new vistas and emphasized to take the nation forward and realize the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047.
Prof. B. J. Rao, Vice Chancellor, University of Hyderabad, spoke about the need for education to focus on developing critical thinking skills and self-awareness. He emphasized that education is a mind-building process, while technology is a tool that complements education. Education has to benefit the society and the nation.
Smt. Usha Subramanian, Professor at Chanakya University, Bengaluru, spoke about the importance of technology in education. She emphasized that technology cannot replace human intelligence and that it is essential to use technology responsibly.
The conference aims to bridge the gaps between research, policies, and practices in educational technology. The experts emphasized the need for experiential learning, outside-classroom learning, and inquiry-based learning.
The conference will continue tomorrow, with technical sessions and paper presentations on various topics related to educational technology.
Key Takeaways from the Session
– Education is a mind-building process, while technology is a tool that complements education.
– Experiential learning is crucial for supplying energy to students.
– Technology can be used for both good and destruction, and it is essential to use it responsibly.
– Education should focus on developing critical thinking skills and self-awareness.
– The traditional Indian education system emphasizes the importance of the guru-sisya parampara (teacher-student relationship).
The conference was made possible by the tireless efforts of Prof. J.V. Madhusudhan and Dr. Ravula Krishnaiah, who served as the conference coordinators. They were the pillars of the conference, working diligently behind the scenes to ensure its success. Their dedication, expertise, and leadership were instrumental in bringing together experts from across the country to share their insights and knowledge on educational technology. The conference organizers and participants are deeply grateful for their contributions.
As we move forward in this digital age, it is essential that we harness the power of technology to enhance education. However, we must also ensure that technology complements education, rather than replacing human intelligence.
By focusing on experiential learning, outside-classroom learning, and inquiry-based learning, we can create a more holistic and effective education system. Ultimately, the future of education lies in striking a balance between technology and human values, and it is up to us to shape this future.