Definition

I agree with Reiser’s emphasis on instructional design, I just didn’t think of this aspect when I wrote my definition of educational technology. The term educational technology first brings to mind the tools that are used (computers, software, games). However, the instructional design component is how these tools can be used effectively.

I’m not sure how I would expand on Reiser’s ideas as they are pretty expansive as is! Rather, I would probably try to simplify them.

We should have learned over the past 50 years that new technology and systems alone do not equal improved learning.

My first definition of educational technology was “the use of technology to enhance learning”. This definition is much too brief and doesn’t address all aspects involved in the field. I was thinking of tools such as computers and software rather than all of the other components that are required- analysis, design, development and evaluation among others. I would change my definition as follows:

Educational technology should not be looked at in isolation and is cannot be separated from instructional design. Both encompass enhancement of the learning process through the use of technology in analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation of an educational project or system.