The history of educational technology

The earliest technological tools were the paintings on cave walls. The most common themes in cave paintings were large wild animals and tracings of human hands as well as abstract patterns.

In the 1920’ Sidney Pressey invented the mechanical teaching machines. The aim of these machines was to provide drill for students to practice different items..

The technological breakthrough came in the 1940’ in the USA during the second world war. During this period soldiers were trained through films and other mediated materials.

In the 1950’, Skinner, invented the programmed instruction. This consisted of the formulation of behavioural objectives.

Between the years 1980 and 1990, the preferred technologies were: Micro Worlds (They were computer environments where learners could explore and build) Simulation (They were computer environments where learners could play with parameters of dynamic system) Hypertext

Also between the years mentioned before (1980 and 1990), www (World wide web), e- mail and forums, became popular.

Benefits of using technology in the class:

Easy to access course materials. Student motivation. Wide participation. Improved student writing. Subjects made easier to learn.

Disadvantages of using technology in the class:

Lack of proper training.

Limited access to sufficient quantities of a technology.

Extra time required for many implementation of technology.

Kinds of technology in the class:

Computer Class website Class blogs and wikis Wireless classroom microphones Mobile devices Interactive white boards Online media Digital games