From the way we communicate to the way we gather information, each day we work with technology and innovation that people in years past never even dreamed about. Can you imagine what a classroom will look like in 10, 20 or 50 years? While it may seem far off, the classroom of the future is closer than you think.

Here are a few ways educators and administrators can prepare for the needs of modern learners.

Embrace technology

Devices, like phones, laptops and tablets, already have a place in today’s classrooms. In addition to smartboards and other teacher-managed tech, personal devices can—and should—be used as a tool to enhance learning. By outfitting classrooms with charging ports and fast wifi, the effective technology-enhanced classroom will be a place where the teacher can guide students through using their phones and tablets to learn. Additionally, future classrooms will need the assistance of technology “coaches” to help teachers, administrators and students use devices and computers to further the educational experience.

Accommodate, engage and empower students

As most teachers and administrators have seen, accommodating different learning styles through curriculum makes information more accessible. By blending styles of learning, adapting from a lecture model to a more collaborative, student-centered one and allowing more opportunities for movement with flexible layouts can make students more engaged and help them feel like a partner in their education. In the classroom of the future, collaboration and empowerment will continue to be key components of student success.

Bring the virtual to reality and vice versa

As virtual reality is becoming more and more commonplaces, odds are we’ll start seeing it in the classroom within the next few years. Working with developers who can enhance the classroom through thoughtfully implemented virtual reality will be a big part of the future of education. Through both in-class and online experiences, students will be able to interact and collaborate with their peers and teachers in ways that deepen their learning.

Start right now

We don’t have to wait until 10, 20 or 50 years from now to see the classroom of the future—it’s right in front of us, happening one small innovation at a time. Today’s teachers and administrators are currently building tomorrow’s high-tech, connected educational experiences. To make a bigger impact on students right now, start implementing new technology, shaking up traditional roles and connecting with students in a new way.