As a college educator, I have observed an evolution in pedagogy that has been

fueled by the incorporation of technology into education systems. What was once
considered as an optional add-on to the academic process is now a key component
of educational infrastructure. Especially in response to the 21st century students’
needs, technology in higher education serves no longer only as an enhancement; it is
now the primary gateway for delivering streamlined access, flexibility, and
accessibility of teaching.
In our institution, we try to balance tackling various learning preferences,
student requirements and even in-person versus remote classes through different
digital tools and pedagogical technologies. The digital platform like Google
Classroom functions as a virtual hub where learners digitally retrieve course
materials, monitor their advancement within a course, and socially interact with
fellow students and educators. Since pandemic time, learners utilized this platform.
As an educator, I am able to create learning modules that incorporate lectures given
via text slide shows or videos alongside interactive quizzes as well as discussion
boards.
Absolutely, I am in favor of technology use in education, specifically artificial
intelligence (AI), when it is applied thoughtfully and fairly, as it improves student
outcomes. Technologies in education provide immediate feedback, facilitate
engagement, interactive content, and improve motivation. Learning with
personalized content helps students grasp concepts better. Equally important,
cognitive support tools such as captioning or text-to-speech aid resource
accessibility for those with disabilities. Instructional design is also simplified using AI
technologies that grade and recommend content, which allows instructors to shift to
facilitator roles and lean more into mentorships. Education AI integration comes with
a set of problems too, however. The issue of the digital divide stands out the most,
access to reliable tech or internet is still scarce among students and institutions
widening educational inequity gaps. There are also serious data privacy concerns
regarding algorithmic bias and student information ethics. If balance isn’t observed
over-reliance on AI might undermine critical thinking skills or interpersonal learning
experiences. In addition to this, insufficient training among teachers makes
professional development vital now more than ever.
An effective teacher is someone who inspires and motivates students while
also providing knowledge-support to help them unlock their potential. In addition, a
good teacher addresses the various learning differences among students, develops
an active and inclusive class, and supports learners in all aspects of their lives.
Reflective practice, feedback as well as modern teaching strategies assists them to
constantly improve their methods and makes them effective learners during their
entire life. As a teacher, I have tried to be effective as well as responsible to my
profession. Every effort has been made on my side so that learners steer away from
rote learning towards understanding concepts and applying knowledge on real-life
situations. For example, literature classes for me are not limited to discussing the plot
or characters of a book because I invite discussion around themes of the book
whether it is personal, societal or global connections which helps my students relate
to what they learn beyond textbooks. This instills comprehension as well as analytical
skills in students. I have tried my best to be available and responsive to students’
needs, especially in their times of difficulty. There was one semester when a number
of students were having personal and financial problems. Rather than punishing
them with late submission policies, I offered my support while allowing them the time
they needed to get back on track.
If I were given the chance to review the curriculum of my undergraduate
program, I would suggest a few key changes to improve its responsiveness to today's
needs and add practical relevance. One critical improvement would be finding a
balance between practical and theoretical approaches. The program gave me
adequate hands-on experiences, but it provided a solid academic foundation. I think
there should be more internship opportunities alongside case studies, community-
based projects, and exposure to industries so that students can make use of their
knowledge in real-world scenarios. Moreover, I would place greater emphasis on
digital literacy and emerging fields like data analysis, artificial intelligence,
cybersecurity, and even basic programming through interdisciplinary flexible
modules offered for all fields of study. These capabilities are essential in today’s
workforce. Soft skills are equally important as are IT skills so they also need attention
too which I would include as well into the curriculum. Training in communication,
leadership, critical thinking alongside emotional intelligence must be incorporated
as most graduates do not perform well despite excelling in these areas because they
lack these crucial skills despite possessing strong technical prowess. There is value
in allowing other departments’ electives which broadens the learners’ horizons while
fostering innovative thinking hence promoting interdisciplinary teaching should be
encouraged too.