Smart schools and increasing educational inequality: Examining challenges and solutions

The integration of smart technologies into education, exemplified by the development of smart schools, holds significant potential for transforming educational practices and improving student outcomes. However, the implementation of smart schools also raises critical concerns about exacerbating educational inequalities, particularly across different socio-economic groups. This study explores the factors that contribute to these disparities, focusing on socio-economic status, digital literacy, school infrastructure, teacher training, and parental involvement. Utilizing a comprehensive literature review, this research highlights the complex interplay between these factors and how they influence students' ability to benefit from smart education. The findings indicate that students from higher socio-economic backgrounds are more likely to have access to the necessary technological resources and supportive environments, thereby maximizing the benefits of smart schools. In contrast, students from underprivileged backgrounds face significant barriers that limit their engagement with and success in smart educational settings. The study concludes that targeted interventions such as ensuring equitable access to technology, enhancing teacher training, improving school infrastructure, and fostering parental involvement are essential for mitigating these disparities and promoting educational equity. The research underscores the need for ongoing studies, particularly longitudinal and cross-national comparative research, to optimize the implementation of smart schools and ensure that all students can benefit from these technological advancements.

کلیدواژه ها:

Smart schools ، Educational inequality ، Digital divide ، Teacher training ، Educational equity