Issues and Trends in Instructional Technology: Lean Times, Shifts in Online Learning, and Increased Attention to Mobile Devices

Abstract

We continue the tradition of reporting the issues and trends of instructional technology that have continued or arisen within the past year. This chapter is comprised of four sections: overall developments; corporate training and development; higher education; and K-12 settings. Overall Developments While there were signs that pointed to an improvement of the nation’s economy, a full economic recovery was not evident. Higher than expected unemployment and decreases in tax revenues continued to play a signifi cant role in how various sectors approached technology spending. Similar to the previous year, funding for K-12 and higher education was less than robust. Technology spending in the private sector , however, did seem to pick up from the previous review, though it remained conservative and cautious. Despite the issue of funding, all sectors continued to explore innovative uses of instructional technology. Online learning, Web-based collaborative tools, and the use of mobile devices are this year’s signifi cant trends to watch.