Educational Technology
Educational technology, often abbreviated as EdTech, refers to the use of technology to improve teaching and learning. It encompasses a wide range of tools, applications, and resources that can be used in educational settings, from traditional classrooms to online learning environments. While the concept of Educational Technology and Instructional Technology has been around since the mid-1990s, EdTech took a giant leap forward during the COVID-19 pandemic. Instructors quickly learned how to implement online tools and programs to allow for quality online learning. In the aftermath of this shift, technology has now become an integral part of the classroom, both for face-to-face and online instruction, at all levels of education. As with technology, EdTech is a booming field that is changing and evolving at incredible speed. Instructional designers leverage educational technology to create curricula for organizations with the aim of teaching information, skills, or practices. Employers are increasingly looking for candidates with advanced degrees, such as a Master’s Degree in Instructional Design. [Learn more about the fantastic MSIDT program at Los Angeles Pacific University.]
Key aspects of educational technology include:
- Hardware: Computers, tablets, smartphones, projectors, interactive whiteboards, and other physical devices.
- Software: Educational apps, learning management systems (LMS), virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) tools, and other digital applications.
- Networks: Connectivity infrastructure, including the internet and local area networks (LANs).
- Pedagogy: The effective use of technology to support teaching and learning goals.
Examples of educational technology applications:
- Online courses: Courses delivered entirely or partially online, using platforms like Coursera, Canvas, Blackboard, Google Classroom, or Moodle.
- Interactive whiteboards: Also called Smart Boards, these large touch screens that can be used to display and manipulate digital content.
- Educational Apps / Software programs: utilizing educational software allows teachers to create more engaging lessons and use a “flipped classroom” model of pedagogy.
- Adaptive learning platforms: Personalized learning experiences that adjust to the individual needs and pace of learners.
Instructional Design
Instructional design (ID) is the process of creating effective and engaging learning experiences and curricula for a wide variety of audiences. Instructional designers work with a wide variety of industries, including educational institutions, corporations, government, and health care. Instructional design involves analyzing learners’ needs, developing learning objectives, creating instructional materials, and evaluating the effectiveness of the learning process. It is a mixture of project management, user experience, and curriculum design.
Key principles of instructional design include:
- Online Course Design: Creation of digital and online curricula that are both user-friendly and engaging.
- Learner Analysis: Understanding the characteristics, needs, and preferences of learners.
- Needs Assessment: Identifying the knowledge, skills, and abilities learners need to acquire.
- Learning Objectives: Stating clear and measurable goals for the learning experience.
- Instructional Strategies: Selecting appropriate teaching methods and activities.
- Assessment: Evaluating learner progress and the effectiveness of the instructional design.
Examples of instructional design techniques:
- Problem-Based Learning: Learners solve real-world problems to apply their knowledge and skills.
- Cooperative Learning: Learners work together in groups to achieve common goals.
- Differentiated Instruction: Providing different learning experiences to meet the needs of diverse learners.
- Gamification: Incorporating game-like elements into learning experiences to increase engagement and motivation.
Conclusion
Educational technology provides the tools and resources for effective teaching and learning, while instructional design ensures that these tools are used in a way that is meaningful, engaging, and effective. Together, these two fields play a vital role in shaping the future of education. If you’re interested in a career in Instructional Design or want to make yourself more competitive in the EdTech field, find out more information about LAPU’s Master’s degree in instructional Design and Technology program and apply today!