Emerging technologies in education Research Paper

Emerging technologies in education - Research Paper Example Creating new strategies to enhance learning is beginning to develop with technologies that are being made available. There are several theories and strategies that are combining to create different learning channels for students.Defining the technology that is used as well as how this relates to learning outcomes is one which is gaining a different understanding for building into a society that can produce learning while enhancing the community. The development that is now based on teaching traditionally and with the concept of using emerging technologies is creating new methods and theories that can be used to enhance the learning experience. Changes in Learning The ability to teach and learn is one that was originally depicted by what is now known as traditional learning. With this concept, there was a general environment which was inclusive of a lecturer combined with a textbook and writing used to show the knowledge. Memorization of materials, tests and quizzes are also a part of traditional learning theories. This has altered with technology as well as with a different understanding of what is occurring for those that are working into a field of learning. The concepts have created what is known as blended learning, which combines the use of technology with traditional concepts to assist with the way in which individuals are able to build into the learning environment. This particular pedagogy is one which is based on emerging e-learning applications with the traditional methods of working with teachers and gathering information. The blended learning framework is furthered by the type of technology used and the ways in which teachers can enhance these components (Bonk et al, 2006). The blended learning and the movement outside of the traditional aspects of learning are one of the forms that are emerging with technology. The concept which is used to move out of the traditional styles of learning is combined with the way in which technology is transforming th e expectations of younger generations. New information models are required because of the amount of information available as well as the possibilities of learning more in-depth options for different subjects. The ability of moving into continuous information creation as well as the information sharing that is forming is providing more alternatives to learning content. In image 1, there is an understanding of how information is now changing with approach for different learning alternatives. Image 1: Information Fragmentation and Coherence (Siemens, Tittenberger, 2009). The first column as representative of traditional learning and the second as the information today is defined by the way in which information is given today. More information sources and scattered information is creating a need for technology to be immersed with different ways of teaching and the ability to interpret and make sense of the information that is available. The use of technology is then changing what is ass ociated with the main approaches to learning as well as the needs in teaching because of the amount of information available (Siemens, Tittenberger, 2009). The Internet and Learning The changes in learning with technology are influenced by software programs for schools. However, there is also a massive set of changes that are occurring with learning because of the Internet and the applications which are available online. The main way in which this has changed is Web 2.0, the second generation of the Internet. This offers interactions for those online and also allows the information to be altered by community input, comments and responses from various portals. Those that are working with learning are able to use the Internet and leverage Web 2.0 to change the way in which learning is available. The nature of learning is altering with this available, specifically because it draws in different learning styles, specifically through hands – on and interactive activities as well as speaking