The Meaning of Educational Technology

• Educational Technology is the development, application of systems, techniques and aids to improve the process of human learning

• Educational Technology is a systematic way of designing, implementing and evaluating the total 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

• Simply stated, educational technology is the application of results of researches and studies, material or non-material to improve teaching and learning.

The Roles and Functions of Educational Technology

1.Arouse and sustain the interest and attention of the pupils/students to learn.

2.Concretize abstract concepts/ideas to promote meaningful learning.

3.Makes learning permanent because of rich experiences that they provide.

4.Increase vocabulary by eliminating verbalism5.Develop continuity of thought.6.Increase the quality of learning while decreasing

the time spent.7.Check pupil preparedness.8.Make learning more interactive, hence learning is

improved.

Guidelines in the Selection of Instructional Materials

• Size- is the material (text or picture) big enough to be seen by the farthest pupil?

• Color- is the material colorful? Pupils are attracted by bright and dark colors. And if so, the choice of colors life-like are harmonious. Does the color facilitate understanding?

• Durability- can the material stand several uses? Can it be used over and over again?

• Economy- Is the material worth its cost? Or can a cheaper material in terms of time spent and in terms of the cash value be used?

• Easy to handle- is the material light and easy to manipulate? Is it easy to [put and then store for future use?

• Relevance- Is the material up to date? Is it related to the lesson in particular and to the specific needs, problems and experiences of the target client?

• Novelty- Does the material possess and element of newness? Can it arouse the curiosity and a sense of discovery in the learners?