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Field lof Instructional Technology


When individuals hear the term Instructional Technology they automatically think of how computers are used in an educational environment. Instructional technology is much broader than the use of computers, hardware and software. Understanding what Instructional technology is can be challenging because it has its roots in several disciplines. These include the behavioral and cognitive sciences, communication systems, computer science, business and education. The multidisciplinary aspect of the field of instructional technology has brought forward various definitions for the field from different perspectives.

Instructional Technology in its simplest definition is, “applying a systems approach to the solution of instructional problems,” as stated by Professor Thomas Reed in a lecture at Indiana University. (1999) There are other definitions recognized in this professional field. McMurrin ( Reigeluth, 1999) states that instructional technology “is a systematic way of designing, carrying out, and evaluating the total process of learning and teaching in terms of specific objectives, based on research in human learning and communication, and employing a combination of human and non-human resources to bring about more effective instruction.” (p.669) In addition, Gentry’s definition of instructional technology is as follows: “The systemic as well as a systematic application of strategies and techniques derived from behavioral and physical science and other knowledge to the solution of instructional problems.” (Gentry, 1987 p.7) Another definition of the field is from Cutshall (2002) who explains that instructional technology is a field of study that integrates the findings of the behavioral sciences and learning theories with technology and instruction. In his view, Instructional Designers analyze learning needs and goals as well as develop a delivery system to meet those needs. Throughout the instructional design process, instructional materials and activities are developed, implemented for tryout as well as evaluated to see if the learning objectives are met.

Analyzing the above-mentioned definitions of this challenging field, it is evident that there are common threads woven throughout, which are:

* Instructional Technology is derived from behavioral and cognitive sciences
* Instructional Technology process is systematic
* Instructional Technology places emphasis on the process of learning
* Instructional Technology focus is on the design and development of effective instruction

The most widely used definition of Instructional Technology takes into account all of the points indicated above. The definition derives from Seals and Richey (1994) and the Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT), which states:

"Instructional Technology is the theory and practice of design, development, utilization, management, and evaluation of processes and resources for learning."

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