Learning Technologies
Learning Technologies involves the processes of systematic planning, design, and development of instruction using technological tools to enhance learning (The University of Texas at Austin, 2008). It encompasses information and instructional technology, as well as telecommunications tools, applications, and systems that support learning (EDUCAUSE, 2012).
Learning Technology, Instructional Technology, and Educational Technology
The three terms (Learning Technology, Instructional Technology, and Educational Technology) are often considered synonymous.
Learning Technologies is closely related to the term Instructional Technology—the theory and practice of design, development, utilization, management and evaluation of processes and resources for learning (Seels, Richey, 1994, p.9). The training and educational professions have slowly been moving towards the term learning—what the learners do—rather than what is given to them (i.e. instruction or training). For example, we normally use eLearning rather than eTraining or eInstruction.
Note that before the term instructional technology, educational technology was often used—the tools used in formal educational practice to disseminate, illustrate, communicate, or immerse learners and teachers in activites purposively designed to induce learning (Garrison, Anderson, 2003). The change from educational to instructional came about because instructional technology encompasses more practice settings, more precisely describes the function of technology in learning platforms, and allows for emphasis on both instruction and learning (Seels, Richey, 1994, p.5).
For more information on the terms, see History and Evolution of the Definition.
Next Steps
References
EDUCAUSE, (2012). Learning Technologies. Retrieved March, 10, 2012 from http://www.educause.edu/ELI/EDUCAUSELearningInitiativeELI/LearningTechnologies/5672
Garrison, D. R., Anderson, T. (2003). E-Learning in the 21st Century: A Framework for Research and Practice. New York: RoutledgeFalmer.
Seels, B. B. & Richey, R. C. (1994). Instructional technology: The definition and domains of the field. Washington, DC: Association for Educational Communications and Technology.
The University of Texas at Austin, (2008) Learning Technologies. Retrieved March, 10, 2012 from http://www.edb.utexas.edu/education/departments/ci/programs/it/