It started with beads and sticks and has advanced to chips and sensors. Educators have long utilized the technology of the day for training purposes. From farms in ancient Asia, to Greek universities, to little one-room school houses on the prairie, to modern training facilities, the instruments used in instruction accelerate the information exchange and eventually advance civilization.
Take a look back at how these 7 inventions left their mark on the timeline of educational tools:
Abacus – Any early counting tool, the abacus dates as far back as 2700 BC. Used primarily for addition and subtraction, the abacus was a tool for trade and teaching.
Paper – The first paper made from fiber, not fabric or fur, was developed in 2nd century China. The pulp papermaking process spread to Europe from the Orient, enabling mass exchanges of information and contributing to significant cultural shifts.
Blackboard – Blackboards originated in classrooms across India during 11th century but they were used as tables instead of being mounted to the wall. In the early 1800s James Pillans, headmaster of the Royal High School, Edinburgh, Scotland invented the modern version of the chalk board for use in his geography class.
Writing slate – Once the use of blackboards in the class room caught on, teachers realized the value of being able to send one home with their students and writing slates were introduced into the curriculum.
Typewriter – Many inventors raced to invent the typewriter and the first commercial model found success in1868. By 1874 the QWERTY keyboard became standard on all brands because of the speed and success of the arrangement. Over the next 100 years the typewriter became a staple in business and infiltrated the education system.
Slide projector – Commonly used between 1950 and 1970 for entertainment and education. Teachers would offer their classes exciting images that corresponded to their studies.
Calculator – Pocket sized electronic calculators became popular in the 1970s after the invention of the microprocessor and the development of integrated circuits.
Moving into the mechanical age changed industry and education forever. Now as society shifts from mechanical to digital, schools and workplaces worldwide are anxious to see what the future holds.
Find out soon in Timeline of Training Technology Part 2: 1970 - Present
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