An important aspect of big data is its use in broad differentiation. This is not the classic differentiation of yore, which has a set expectation for the majority while only adjusting lessons for those with extraordinary needs. Traditionally, either difficulty has been increased or decreased, accommodations provided for reading challenges, or other accessibility changes to the standard curriculum have been made. Though these are helpful to a few, big data could bring a sort of differentiation to every student, as every student is ultimately different from the next. They are individuals after all.

Therefore, what is taking place with the use of big data is potentially so universal, it need not be called differentiation at all; there is no single pathway set for the majority of students to follow. Big data allows us into a realm of education that is completely customizable. It allows for tailoring of curriculum to suit anyone’s personal interests, preferred learning styles, and even optimal assessment conditions.

Personalization in learning can arise from algorithms that can track a students proficiencies, be they in analytical writing, problem-solving, or creativity. Such algorithms can recognize interest levels by tracking eye movements, time spent on certain activities, and even how well the student-produced responses are to various assessments, including writing prompts.

In the future education may very well become as personal as one’s MP3 playlists, dietary preferences, or the arrangement of his or her own living quarters. Healthcare and all manner of product fields have already taken advantage of big data to bring end users the tailored experience they feel fits their individual needs over the mass-produced, one-size-fits-all approach of the past. Of course, education is slow to change, and this is rolling out in bits and pieces for the population of today’s students.

The boons to schooling could be grand. In the short term, students lives can mold around education, and their education, in turn, could mold around them. In the long term, one may suspect future jobs will crave increasing specialization in light of all the innovation taking place. The old generalized, prepackaged degrees familiar to most now may not find as much value in the future. Given the perfect fit for every student, education personalized is education tailored—comfortably contoured and supremely suited for his or her irreplaceable role in society.

Reference:

Levinson, M. (2013, September 9). Personalized learning, big data and Schools. Edutopia. Retrieved September 19, 2022, from https://www.edutopia.org/blog/personalized-learning-big-data-schools-matt-levinson

(Citation created using Ciation Machine services)