Technology and the Future of Education

Abstract

Education has entered an era that will challenge our ability to adapt and to interact with new technological and interactive media. Elementary, secondary, and postsecondary education will all benefit from new technologies if educators respond to the profound possibilities of such technologies. Television is one media source that can be used effectively if its limitations are recognized and if it is used in conjunction with other media. Traditional teaching by television (i.e., the face-to-face lecture) must be supplemented by effective two-way television interaction. Supporting materials must complement the programs effectively, and the faculty's importance cannot be dismissed. Instructors must learn to serve as the managers of instruction. Colleges of education must adapt so that they can prepare educators for their new roles. It must also be recognized that if educators do not adapt, business and industry will take the lead in technological innovation, because the power of television has already been acknowledged. (Contains 36 references.) (SLD)