Discussion Thread: Careers in Educational
Technology
EMY
According to Top Hat “Educational Technology is a term used to describe a wide array of
teaching-and-learning–related software and hardware that's increasingly being used in college
and university classrooms...Educational Technology refers to technology that usually helps
facilitate collaboration in an active learning environment.”! Top Hat, (2019). For example,
Google Classroom is a network-based learning tool that can be used for communication and
assessment.!
The terms educational technology and instructional technology are different yet interrelated.!
Educational technology is the field that investigates and analyzes hardware and software
processes while instructional technology relates to the usage development and design of the
resource materials as well as the theory and practice of how the technology is utilized.
“Educational technology embraces all areas of technology in any field of education. Instructional
technology covers a narrow field dealing with all types of teaching and learning. Instructional
technology is defined as the theory and practice of design and evaluation processes for learning.
Instructional technology's primarily goal is to enhance the teaching and learning process.
Educational technology is primarily goal technological literacy for everyone. The analysis
between educational technology and instructional technology is in fact found at the roots of their
definitions. Instruction is a part of the education as a whole but instruction unlike education is
carefully mapped out in every detail.” (Bryant & Nolton, 2015).
Traditional teaching methods have been improved with the use of technology.! Hence, the
definition of educational technology has greatly changed over the years. The field of educational
technology expanded as the internet became more accessible (Bozkurt, 2020). !Educational
technology is more student-centered and has transformed education by providing several positive
outcomes, for example, smart classrooms have enhanced teaching and learning processes.
Educational technology is projected to continue to improve learning outcomes for students as
educators implement the applicable technological tools that help to facilitate learning (Muyoya et
al., 2016). EdTech benefits student learning improves teacher instruction and increases
engagement. However, educational technology has also created the digital divide and the call for
social justice.! !Nonetheless, the field of educational technology (EdTech) will continue to grow
and improve teaching and learning.
The expansion of technology in the field of education has opened the door to new courses,
certifications, and careers.! For example, Instructional Design, ADDIE Instructional Design, and
Instructional Design Educational Technologists, Instructional Technology Specialists, Models.
or Technology Facilitators work with faculty in K-12 schools or in higher education.! Working
collaboratively with faculty and administrators Educational Technologists research and develop
innovative techniques to improve student learning outcomes and provide training and support.
Resources
Bryant, C., & Nolton, D. (2015, February 27).!The difference between Educational Technology
and Instructional Technology. Shynaisa's World. Retrieved January 25, 2022, from
https://shynaisamcdonald.wordpress.com/2015/02/26/the-difference-between-educational-
technology-and-instructional-technology/
