ADOPTING THE 4TH INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION IN TODAY’S EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM: THE BENEFITS AND ETHICAL IMPLICATIONS

Abstract

The low outputs in cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domains of learning along with the low 21st-century skills call for a rethink in the educational system. Research revealed that the invention of machines capable of doing hand tools work, steam usage, and advanced other systems of power, and the factory system adoption are the most variations that led to the Industrial Revolution. Research also revealed that the term "Fourth Industrial Revolution" (4IR) was devised in 2016 by Klaus Schwab, the World Economic Forum's Founder and Executive Chairman (WEF). The rapid development and implementation of various technologies have given societies new abilities and capacities to change lives. Presently, society has moved towards the 4IR which is fueled by technology. Adopting the 4IR in the educational system, most especially in developing countries, faces many challenges such as infrastructure, inadequate funding, and skill to make the graduate part in the 4IR. The advanced fusion of the Internet of Things (IoT), quantum computing, gene sequencing, nanotechnology, cloud computing, robotics, genetic engineering, and artificial intelligence (AI) regarded as 4IR keeps changing the way individual works and lives in society. Although the 4IR has its ethical implications such as data sensitivity which led to increased concern about data privacy and management, the benefits of 4IR to all fields of study cannot be overestimated. The educational field is not exempted as it has led to an increase in productivity and efficiency, collaborative teaching and learning, enhancement in decision-making with data-based tools, project-based learning, and specialized learning environment among others. The full adoption of 4IR in all levels of education in developing countries is therefore recommended. Local, state, and federal governments should provide support in terms of infrastructure, funding, and skilled personnel for all tertiary institutions within their jurisdiction towards the implementation of 4IR