Challenges and opportunities of implementing smart schools in rural areas

Iman Sohrabi Moghadam Chafjiri¹ Hossein Akbarnejad Demouchali²

1) PhD student of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Islamic Azad University, Lahijan branch - Iran
2) Bachelor student of Mechanical Engineering, Islamic Azad University, Lahijan Branch - Iran

IOI Code : AZEK-AZFHKF
Publication : 4th International Conference on New Research & Achievements in Science, Engineering & Technologies(setbconf.com)
Abstract :
    This paper aims at identifying and discussing some of the problems and considerations that can be expected when advancing smart schools in rural regions. Integrated use of advanced technologies in the program and the teaching-learning process can be a significant change agent in learning that is simple, comprehensive, rich and purposeful in developing skills of the 21st century learners. However, the establishment of such schools in rural areas had persistent difficulties, prohibition of infrastructural facilities, cultural barriers and scarce funds. The purpose of this study is to establish such challenges and also look at the possible opportunities that come with smart schools in the rural areas. To conduct the analysis, there is used such literature as books, articles, and case studies of successful implementations of the EDI system in different countries, as well as theoretical concepts concerning digital education. The study concluded that there are evident challenges that hinder the achievement, but at the same time there are prospects for meaningful education and digital competencies, as well as socio-economic development of rural territories regarding the creation of smart schools. The paper also provides recommendations to the policymakers and educators to enhance the chances of implementing smart schools to the rural areas.

Keywords : smart schools rural areas digital divide education technology infrastructure challenges teacher training policy development