Inclusive learning using industry 4.0 technologies: addressing student diversity in modern education

Abstract

This study explores the potential benefits of integrating Industry 4.0 technologies into educational settings, focusing on Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning, Augmented Reality, Big Data, Blockchain, Cloud Computing, Internet of Things, Metaverse, Robotics, and Virtual Reality. The aim is to develop learning environments that are more responsive to the diverse needs of students and better equipped to meet those requirements. In today’s educational system, diversity manifests in various forms, including differences in learning styles, talents, interests, and cultural backgrounds. To effectively accommodate students with diverse profiles, educators must adapt and adjust their learning and teaching approaches accordingly. This study proposes that the incorporation of Industry 4.0 technologies into educational settings may offer adaptable solutions to meet the varying needs of students. It highlights the potential advantages of these technologies in fostering inclusive learning environments for modern education. By utilizing the power of technology, educators can create personalized learning experiences that cater to the unique needs of each student, thereby promoting inclusivity and equity in education. In conclusion, this study underscores the importance of embracing a more inclusive model of education that harnesses the potential of technology to enhance learning outcomes and support the diverse needs of students in today’s educational landscape.

Keywords:

• Industry 4.0
• technology in education
• student diversity
• artificial intelligence
• IoT
• augmented reality

REVIEWING EDITOR:

• Sirui Wang, UCLA: University of California Los Angeles, USA

SUBJECTS:

• Information & Communication Technology (ICT)
• Engineering Education
• Sustainability Education, Training & Leadership

Disclosure statement

We have taken the references of other publishers and drafted this article. We have not submitted the manuscript, figures, and tables presented in this article to any other journal for consideration. No conflict of interest.

Additional information

Funding

This research received no external funding. The APC will be funded by Digital Transformation Portfolio, Tshwane University of Technology, Staatsartillerie Rd, Pretoria West, Pretoria 0183, South Africa.

Notes on contributors

Ishteyaaq Ahmad

Ishteyaaq Ahamd is a dedicated researcher with a focus on exploring the intersection of technology and education. With expertise in Industry 4.0 technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Big Data, etc., the author’s research aims to revolutionize learning environments and promote inclusivity in education. This paper contributes to the author’s broader research agenda, which seeks to understand the potential of emerging technologies to address challenges in education and promote equitable access to learning opportunities. By examining the implications of Industry 4.0 technologies on student diversity, equity, and inclusion, the author’s work contributes to ongoing efforts to shape the future of education and ensure that all students have the tools they need to succeed in the digital age.

Sonal Sharma

Sonal Sharma is working as the Dean of the Uttaranchal School of Computing Sciences, Uttaranchal University with a total experience of 23 years. Her research interest is in Data Warehousing, Data Mining, Machine Learning, Big Data Analytics, and Data Sciences. She has presented/published 73 research papers in national and international conferences/seminars/journals.

Rajesh Singh

Rajesh Singh, a Professor at Uttaranchal University, boasts 19+ years in academics, awarded for his M.Tech and B.E. achievements. With 400+ research papers, 500+ patents, and mentoring accolades, he excels in embedded systems, robotics, and IoT. Recognized by prestigious institutions, he's authored 48 books and led Springer's special issue.

Anita Gehlot

Anita Gehlot, an Associate Professor at Uttaranchal University, holds a decade-long academic tenure. With 300 patents and 300 publications, she specialized in embedded systems and IoT. Recognized for her exemplary contributions, she's authored 40 books and edited a special issue for Springer. She organized workshops and lectures for students' enrichment.

Lovi Raj Gupta

Lovi Raj Gupta is the Pro Vice Chancellor, Lovely Professional University. He is a leading light in the field of Technical and Higher education in the country. He holds a Ph.D. in Bioinformatics. He did his M.Tech in Computer-Aided Design & Interactive Graphics from IIT, Kanpur and B. E (Hons) Mechanical Engineering from MITS, Gwalior.

Amit Kumar Thakur

Amit Kumar Thakur is currently a Professor& HOD (Aerospace Engineering) (since July 2019) in the School of Mechanical Engineering (SME) at Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, with more than Twenty years of experience in academics and research. His area of research is Renewable Energy Technologies, Biofuels, Thermal Engineering Aerodynamics, Propulsion and IoT (Internet of Things). He has published over Sixty Eight (68) Journal papers all Scopus Indexed (27 in SCI-indexed journals), in the peer-reviewed international journals, conference proceedings, and book chapters. He guided 11 M.Tech Thesis, and is guiding 4 Ph.D Thesis is currently. His h-index of 11, i-10 index of 15, and total citations of 530 strongly endorse his high research productivity. He has published 3 books with Elsevier, Nova Science Publisher, and CRC Press - Taylor & Francis Group and 10 edited books are in progress. He is also acting as an Editorial board member and reviewer of 5 international peer-reviewed Journals. He has Over 190+ Patents Published with 22 Innovative Australian Patent, 7 Indian patent, 2 South African Granted. He completed a three-week summer school program on Environment at Tsinghua University, Beijing, China. Topper of NPTEL online course. He was the University topper in M.Tech, RGPV, Bhopal. He was the Faculty Advisor of the SAE collegiate club, organizing head of IC engine and robotics workshop. He has organized and conducted many workshops and national-level working model competitions. He is a Member of the Society of Automobile Engineers (SAE India), a life member of the Indian Society for Technical Education (ISTE), and a life member of The Aeronautical Society of India (AMeASI). He was the Research sub-coordinator for ADRDE, DRDO in the project of design and development of the deceleration system for the Space capsule recovery experiment (SRE).

Neeraj Priyadarshi

Neeraj Priyadarshi, a Senior IEEE Member, holds an M.Tech from VIT and a Ph.D. from Udaipur's Government College of Technology and Engineering. Currently at Aarhus University's CTiF Global Capsule, his expertise spans power electronics, control systems, and solar power. With 60+ publications and 10 patents, he's a distinguished researcher and organizer of international workshops.

Bhekisipho Twala

Bhekisipho Twala is the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Digital Transformation and Professor in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science at the Tshwane University of Technology in South Africa. His research includes promoting Artificial Intelligence within the Big Data Analytics field and developing novel solutions to crucial research problems in this area.