Educational Technology

A Definition of Educational Technology

Also known variously as e-learning, instructional technology and learning technology, educational technology is the use of technology to support the learning process. Although the term can refer to all kinds of analogue technologies, eg photographs, film, video, audio recordings etc, it is usually used to talk specifically about digital computer technology.

Although technology is widely used in the administration and management of education (eg student records, marketing, procurement, finance etc) and in research, educational technology is only concerned with technology as it impacts upon the learning process, eg in delivering learning materials, facilitating communication and providing assessment and feedback. As society grows ever-more complex, at an ever-faster rate, so the demand for knowledge increases exponentially, with e-learning emerging as a major channel for meeting this demand.

SIGN LANGUAGE

 

A nonverbal language that serves as a system of communication for people who are hearing impaired. Sign language uses hand signals to represent letters of the alphabet and gestures to represent words, phrases, and concepts. As in spoken languages, sign languages incorporate an extensive vocabulary with rules that govern its presentation (grammar and syntax). The sign languages most used in the United States are

• American Sign Language (ASL) derives its structure from French Sign Language, which was the first formal sign language, and is a unique language separate from spoken English. ASL is the third most common language in the United States.