Instructional technology describes the practice of utilizing electronic or mechanical devices to facilitate learning. The technology is used in conjunction with the selected instructional strategy either to aid in the delivery of instruction or to provide the instruction outright.
As an example from my own experience, I may design a Web based training (WBT) as the sole deliverable where the learner directs him or herself through the instruction and assessment. The course has content, guidelines, parameters, activities, completion indicators, and automated tracking functionality programmed into it.
I may also elect to use a WBT platform in a blended learning approach where the WBT is used to supplement the instructor-delivered instruction in a classroom setting. In the blended approach, the WBT may be brought in on queue from the instructor in the form of interactive web-based activities or web-based simulations of a particular task.
In both instances, the WBT platform provides a means of tracking completion of training.
I also recall various forms of instructional technology from my own time as a student in elementary and secondary schools. I recall various learning aids such as videos, movies, filmstrips, electronic devices that drilled in basic arithmetic, felt boards, magnetic boards, etc. These are all forms of technology, albeit some very low-tech, that aid in instruction.
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7 comments:
You are one of the few to have opened your definition with partnering technology with the instructional aspect--aid in delivery or provide outright.
As much as I tend to like gadgets, I really try to keep technology subordinate to the topic of instruction.
WBT and blended learning solutions - good examples of IDT and tracking. You must be from the business world of instructional design.
I agree with your reference to blended learning combining technology with instructor-delivered instruction. It is this blending that may disarm and eventually overcome the resistence that some teachers may feel with respect to using technology in the classroom.
WOW - I feel like I'm back in my training and development adult education classes. What you state about using technology in a T&D setting is exactly what we learned in our classes. One point you made that I had not thought about in considering my definition and that I now remember from my coursework, is the tracking of training. This is so important in the T&D world in regards to accountability and is one of instructional technology’s important uses. It will be nice having your perspective in the class.
It's funny when you think about the "technology" they used when I was going through elementary school.... and I'm not that old. We used the projectors for movies that had film on reels. That, today, is obsolete so I am curious about what my elementary school students will encounter when they are my age.
Does anybody remember the days of film loops and ditto machines?
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