FROM CLASS TO SMART-CLASS TO ONLINE CLASS: ACADEMICS AND THE QUESTION OF PARTICIPATORY EDUCATION

The classroom has undergone a profound transformation over the past few decades, moving from conventional, teacher-centric spaces to technologically enhanced smart classrooms, and most recently, to fully online and hybrid learning environments. This paper examines these shifts with a critical focus on the ideas of participatory and inclusive education. It discusses how the integration of technology has not only redefined access to knowledge but also altered the dynamics of engagement, collaboration, and inclusivity among learners. While smart technologies and online platforms have expanded educational possibilities, they have also introduced new barriers related to accessibility, equity, and meaningful participation. Through a critical analysis, this paper aims to illuminate the complex relationship between technological evolution and inclusive educational practices, offering insights into how future learning spaces can be designed to foster greater equity, participation, and belonging for all students.