Understanding
& Using Instructional Technology: Introduction
The increasing use of instructional
technology in universities means that graduate students and instructors
in all disciplines, not just the sciences, must familiarize themselves
with the use of at least some instructional technology. Used well, instructional
technology can enhance student learning and bring new dimensions to traditional
teaching methods. However, instructional technology can also be expensive,
time consuming, and, used inappropriately, can draw attention away from
pedagogical objectives. It is important, therefore, to consider both the
pros and cons of instructional technology, and to use it to promote carefully
considered pedagogical objectives.
A good, short article on the
benefits of instructional technology was published by Syllabus
magazine in March 2002. It can be found at http://www.syllabus.com/article.asp?id=7365(links open in a new window).
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