Hubble's Expanding Universe: A Model for Technology Infused Adult Learning

Introduction

While astronomy and education may initially seem like two unrelated disciplines, this chapter will use a model from physics/astronomy to propose a more accurate model for the ever expanding universe of technology infused learning. For decades, this has been described by noting changes introduced by technology. But the experience is more than that. The effect of technology is not changing but expanding possibilities and opportunities in the realm of pedagogy and andragogy and in curriculum and program development in those areas. This chapter will focus on andragogy.

This chapter has two clear objectives: The first objective is to provide a view of technology in education through a different lens. This lens shows technology as infused into education, not just added on. The second objective is to develop a new model for andragogy by exploring parallels between the impact of Hubble’s discoveries on astronomers accepted view of the universe and the impact of technology on educators’ traditional view of curriculum and program development.