The Promise of Technology

In order for the learning college to sustain a firm foundation, many new programs and practices for operation is needed. The solution is new applications of technology. Because of the many advances technology has done for society, few educational institutions are ignoring its usage. However, it has been a focus on campuses that more effective use of technology be incorporated into teaching and learning. O'Banion makes a clear point how "in spite of claims that technology can transform teaching and learning, that transformations is not likely to take place unless faculty actually use technology"(p. 65). I think that this is a relevant point because I can think of a few professors myself that are so "old-fashioned" sort to speak, that I would not picture them using technology in their classes unless they were absolutely forced to. I like how O'Banion makes the point that in education, technology is a flexible tool that can enhance and expand learning when it is used to support a potent pedagogy and a content-rich curriculum. Here are some further points that O'Banion makes about the usage of technology in education and its importance:

• Technology is ubiquitous American culture, a way of life for the young and increasingly a way of life for older adults.
• Technology is a time and place free medium and usually an ism-free medium.
• Technology can assess differences, individualize instruction, test for progress, record achievement, and transfer results to other sources.
• Technology can provide access to great amounts of information including the most recently discovered knowledge.
• Technology can manage and coordinate complex arrangements and activities.
• Technology can extend and expand a sense of community and connectedness.
• Technology can challenge, stimulate, simulate, and even create new forms and connections.