Internet of educational things

The Internet of Things (IoT), the connection of devices (beyond computers and smartphones) to the internet, is poised to radically transform every aspect of our life including our learning process. It will virtually connect everything that can be connected. 

In Bangladesh, some laudable initiatives have been taken to realise the potential of IoT. An IoT lab has been established in Mirpur. DataSoft and University of Liberal Arts (ULAB) are overseeing this lab. IAT and BUET are conducting the training programmes. Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority and ICT Ministry are funding this lab. The whole project is being supervised by Professor Michael Wang of Columbia University. 

Professor Sazzad Hossain of Computer Science and Engineering Department, ULAB informs that students from any university can access the lab if they fulfill certain educational requirements. He shares some of the ongoing projects in the IoT lab: Indoor location map which can track movement of any person in certain areas; smart garbage management system which will send a signal to the municipality authority when bins are filled with garbage; and a smart lamp post which will automatically turn on and off the street lamps when necessary. 

Professor Sazzad adds that higher educational institutions can be greatly benefitted by using IoT in their regular educational activities. It can be used to improve safety of the campus and students, keep track of key resources including teaching staff and students, and enhance access to information.