A Solution in Search of a Problem: The Role of Technology in Educational Reform

Abstract

There are five goals which are essential to meaningful educational reform: making learning more independent, more individualized, more interactive, more interdisciplinary and more intuitive. There are technological tools which can help overcome some of the obstacles to achieving those goals. Independent learning can be improved by the use of various forms of electronic data bases and by automated data acquisition and processing tools. Individualized learning can be encouraged by Computer-Aided Instructional software and by specialized data bases including hypertext and hypermedia. Interactive learning can be fostered by the use of video projection systems, intelligent tutors, interactive video systems, and telecommunication networks. Interdisciplinary learning can be promoted by the uses of generic software tools such as spreadsheets, data base management systems, and word processors as well as by simulation and modeling software. Finally, intuitive learning can be supported by the use of various kinds of visualization software including graphing calculators, graphing software and three-dimensional modeling programs.