MODULE 1: TECHNOLOGY

1.1 INTRODUCTION

1.2 TYPES OF TECHNOLOGY

1.3 TEACHING AND LEARNING WITH TECHNOLOGY

1.4 TECHNOLOGY PLANNING

1.5 CONCLUSION

1.6 ASSIGNMENT

 1.1 INTRODUCTION

Technology is not a 'magic bullet' for adult education and in fact, can create as many problems as it solves. However, the quality and type of learning that technology can promote makes it an attractive prospect for the field. Instructional technologies, especially those that are multimedia engage learners' senses and motive far beyond what is possible with paper and pencil activities. Computers in particular allow students to be much more self-directed and learn through discovery   (versus received or passive learning in which the instructor transmits information to students). There are many other benefits, not the least of which is connecting practitioners, volunteers and learners via the Internet as has never been possible in the past. Unfortunately, there are also the attendant problems or barriers such as lack of resources (e.g., financial, time, technical expertise) that need to be fully considered by programs. This course will examine both these positive and negative aspects of integrating technology into adult literacy programs. We will begin with a discussion about technology in general, and then move on to computers specifically since they are the most widely used in programs, and offer powerful and varied features for teaching and learning.

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