educational technology

     I have read many conceptions about instructional technology, maybe today, I should say ‘educational technology’, form the early definition to the AECT’s definition in 2005. The most one I can accept is the 2005 definition. Although it is also a temporary one, a snapshot in time, it is clear, precise and unambiguous and draw boundaries indicating what is included, what is excluded, what is central, and what is peripheral. Especially the word ‘appropriate’, it is used accurately. You know, different class need different educational technology.

But it has a shortcoming. That is, there is no evaluation in the concept. Evaluation is very important to learning. Educational technology should have evaluation as feedback to learning.

 

   ?Educational technology is the study and ethical practice of facilitating learning and improving performance by creating, using, and managing appropriate technological processes and resources (Molenda and Robinson, 2004)

 

    My idea about 2005 definition is above. Looking forward to different ideas!

Help Select the Best Ed Tech Articles ›

e-learning

Submitted by tgrandy on Fri, 2008-02-08 00:53.
Stephen, I agree with you that in teaching we have to be cognizant of teaching and assessing outcomes.  Numerous courses have a standardized test at the end, and if the outcomes have not been taught, or tested, then achievement on such test will be low.  Unless technology has proven to be effective, I know I would be reluctant to introduce it into my classroom.  I don't feel there is time to teach the curriculum and experiment with different methods of teaching or teaching tools.In the literature I have read, there has not been a convincing argument that technology enhances learning.  In some studies it appears to have a positive effect of achievement, however in others, it appears to make no significant difference.  It is difficult, at least for me, to promote and sell technology to other teachers when I am not totally convinced of any improvement in student performance.  

Regardless of the evidence, students today are definitely using technology in education.  I thought this video was very interesting.