Microsoft Windows, or simply Windows, is a graphical operating system developed and implemented in several industries worldwide. Since developing a graphical user interface for the DOS computing environment in 1985, Windows has been installed in various computers used in companies, learning institutions, homes, etc. Before the era of handheld devices such as smartphones, a computer running Windows operating system was among the few widely used technologies across multiple age groups and industries.
Undeniably, since the first windows operating system’s implementation, it has grown in popularity to brag a global market share of more than 80%. This is evident with most computers globally being synonymous with the Windows operating system. Such a significant market share goes a long way in showing our reliance on windows to help with various tasks. This is primarily because of its simple to use graphical user interface, a wide array of applications to choose from, cost-effectiveness, and availability. All of which are reasons why the Windows operating system is widely used in the education industry.
Education is the process of gaining knowledge and skills in a particular area of learning. This process has been around for many years, continually evolving to adopt both current and emerging technologies to improve the learning process. The windows operating system has significantly contributed to the improvement of the learning environment. Today, the most common Windows operating system is Windows 10, which boasts a couple of new features and supports various essential applications for the learning process.
Windows offers software bundles designed with the most basic users in mind. For instance, because windows 10 is commonly used for interactive and personalized learning, it often features applications designed to improve the learning process, such as word processors, database management tools, etc. Besides, Windows is specially designed to take advantage of current technologies meant for learning institutions. This makes it an indispensable addition to education for an immersive teaching and learning experience.
On the other hand, students are also using the flexibility offered by windows to their advantage. For instance, students can buy essay UK from online experts to integrate with applications across multiple devices running the Windows operating system. This is academic malpractice that most learning institutions do not know how to identify and follow up on.
Benefits of Windows Operating System In the Education Sector
The education industry is ever-changing by adopting new and emerging technologies such as the use of computers and laptops running Windows 10. Below are some of the benefits of using the Windows operating system in learning. They include:
- Better access to learning resources
Windows operating systems often accommodate a wide array of applications. Each application facilitates easy sharing and access to various educational resources, i.e., eBooks, e-learning platforms, collaboration tools, etc. This is a considerable improvement compared to traditional methods of accessing information such as visiting a library.
- Provides teachers with tools to improve student engagement
Windows operating systems support applications such as Microsoft Photos and Microsoft PowerPoint that can be used to provide visual aids in class. This method of teaching has proved to be an effective way of increasing student engagement in learning.
- Improved productivity
Windows operating system provides easy access to various productivity tools such as collaboration software to facilitate group assignments. Windows also offer focus assist applications to reduce distractions during study sessions. Besides, it can provide teachers with more time to spend with students when using assessment and administrative applications to complete various tasks on their behalf.
- Readily available and affordable educational applications
Windows has an extensive collection of applications that are useful in a learning environment. The applications found in the Microsoft store are applicable for a wide range of uses, i.e., early childhood learning, instructional guides, PDF/ eBook readers, among many others.
These are just some of the benefits of using a Windows operating system to run educational applications. Despite these benefits, the use of such devices in class can also bring about some challenges. These challenges include:
- Opportunity for numerous distractions
- Prone to disruption of the learning process when devices break down
- Access to inappropriate content online
- Added financial burden to purchase and maintain devices
However, these challenges can be mitigated with a school usage policy, monitoring software, and limiting what information is shared online. Nonetheless, the use of windows operating systems has proven to be beneficial in enhancing the learning environment. Therefore, the implementation of windows operating systems on various school devices is an added benefit for both teachers and students.