Abstract
To understand how learning is impacted by technology, an overview of learning processes, adult education, and educational technology is needed. Adults learn contextually and through shared knowledge construction. Technology plays an enormous role with respect to adult learning, particularly if multi-generations learn together. Educators need to provide ways for adult learners to physically and intellectually access technology. Several topics need to be addressed relative to technology-enhanced learning: workplace issues, Digital Divide, and cultural concerns. Technology impacts learning communities in several ways, particularly as interactive web 2.0 tools are incorporated. Both educators and learners need to collaboratively use technology for personal and professional growth.
TopBackground
To understand how learning is impacted by technology, an overview of learning processes, adult education, and educational technology is needed.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Collaboration: The process of sharing resources and responsibilities to create shared meaning and attain a common goal; interdependent cooperation.
Instructional Design: A systematic analysis of training needs and the development of aligned instruction.
Digital Natives: Individuals, usually born since 1985, who have grown up in the digital world.
Globalization: The process of integrating regions via communications and economics.
Technology Literacy: Ability for a person to effectively and responsibly use technology to access, manage, integrate, evaluate, create and communicate information.
Digital Divide: The gap between “haves” and “have-nots” relative to technology access.
Learning Objects: A self-contained resource, usually digital, that can be used and repurposed in support of learning.
Andragogy: The art and science of helping adults learn.
Web 2.0: Interactive Web; enables people to collaborate and share online.