Education Technology

Educational software is computer software whose major purpose is learning. Such software actually predates digital computers but was often too costly or cumbersome for widespread use. The BASIC programming language, mother to the still widely used Visual Basic, was conceived as an educational tool. The personal computer ushered in an era of educational software, much of which was developed for the Apple II. Hardware breakthroughs such as graphics and sound and CD-ROMs led to a more pleasing educational environment. Via virtual learning environments such as Blackboard, students can access notes and assignments from their networked computer at home. Many feel they no longer need attend classes; a few of them are right.

A lot of educational software is aimed at children, sometimes very young children. Learning is fun. Learning is just another game. The jury is still out on the value of such software. Frankly, hype surrounds any field of human endeavor, why should education be the exception? Virtually all experts and participants agree that the computer can be a great tool for teaching the disabled. Sometimes autistic kids speak for the first time to a computer.

Edutainment is the amalgamation of computer games and educational software into a single product. The focus is usually on the entertainment (were you surprised?); the educational aspects are often just a byproduct. Educational reference software has been available for well over a decade. Over the years the user interface and the software itself have evolved, taking advantage of computer functionality such as hypertext. Wikipedia and its competitors have become a major source of reference material. Instead of relying on small teams of “experts,” interested outsiders can participate in developing the reference material as well as accessing it. As with any reference work there are quality and fairness issues.

Can you learn from computer games? A lot of people think so, especially those who play. Some games provide the needed skill set for dealing with dragons and rescuing damsels in distress. Other games help you build cities and reshape the countries of Europe. Developing hand-eye coordination is undoubtedly important in a child’s growth. Computer games are one way to get there. Sports are another. Do they still sell wooden paddles with a tiny ball attached by a rubber band?

Don’t get me wrong. I am a real fan of computer education. I just think it must be placed in context and I hate the hype. Most game players aren’t learning very much when they are glued to the computer screen. There is a real danger of isolation, being cut off from others. Like almost everything else, the computer is a two-edged sword; it can cause isolation or break isolation. Countless elderly access the outside world and develop friendships via the Internet. They believe the phrase: You’re never too old to learn.

The computer enables people to take courses from their own home without having to deal with traffic jams, baby sitters, parking lots, bus schedules, or wheelchair ramps. The computer has created educational possibilities. It’s up to us to benefit from them, and the benefit is far from automatic.