Rethinking the role of educators in the 21st century: navigating globalization, technology, and pandemics

Abstract

This concise review delves into the dynamic intersection of globalization and information and communication technology (ICT) in education, where economic, technological, and cultural forces converge with the widespread adoption of digital tools. Globalization standardizes education worldwide, emphasizing preparation for the global economy and fostering an interconnectedness of educational systems. Simultaneously, ICT revolutionizes education, enhancing student engagement, motivation, and performance while necessitating adaptability from educators. Identified gaps in the literature underscore the need for emphasis on educators' perspectives, in-depth exploration of pedagogical changes, attention to training and professional development, comparative studies, examination of equity and inclusion, exploration of counseling, and guidance for educators. Proposed recommendations advocate for active engagement in continuous professional development (CPD), seamless ICT integration, addressing the digital divide, nurturing twenty-first century skills, prioritizing student-centered learning, fostering mental health, and embracing learning analytics. Future research directions advocate for investigating the impact of emerging technologies, addressing digital equity, assessing the effectiveness of online and blended learning, exploring teacher training, evaluating student outcomes through learning analytics, and investigating global perspectives and parental involvement. These endeavors aim to provide evidence-based insights, shaping the future of education in an increasingly digital world, with a specific emphasis on the transformative potential of learning analytics.