In an era of continuous change and rapid development, new ways of encouraging children to participate in learning are emerging. Traditional instruction based primarily on transmitting information from teacher to passive listener is no longer the only model for education. Earlier approaches often emphasised memorising information without active participation.
Today's classrooms offer more opportunities to turn passive listeners into active participants. Interactive technologies are one way to achieve this. The word “interactive” refers to reciprocal action and engagement. In education, it describes learning through participation, communication and cooperation rather than listening alone.
Interactive educational approaches can support:
- communication and collaboration among learners;
- more active and engaging lessons instead of monotonous routines;
- greater concentration and interest;
- varied activities with contemporary technologies;
- fresh ways to present familiar materials;
- individual creativity and teamwork;
- a positive and supportive emotional learning environment.
Interactive technology involves learners through games and practical activities, helping them deepen knowledge and develop communication skills.
The original article illustrates its argument using the following popular but not scientifically established retention percentages:
- 5% from lectures;
- 10% from reading;
- 20% from seeing;
- 50% from hearing and seeing together;
- 70% from discussing and writing;
- 80% from doing things personally;
- 90% from doing and discussing simultaneously.
These numbers should be viewed as an historical illustration, not as reliable or universal measurements of learning outcomes.
In practice, the central idea of interactive technology is to involve learners in meaningful activities. Well-designed practice, feedback, explanation and discussion can help make learning more memorable and engaging.
