Using Educational Technology to Support Students’ Real World Learning

Abstract

For future employability and professional practices, students “require a wider skill set that will enable them to thrive in an increasingly digital world” (JISC. Effective practice with e-portfolios. Bristol: University of Bristol. Retrieved from https://issuu.com/jiscinfonet/docs/jisc_effective_practice_with_e-portfolios_2008 (2008), p. 5). In this regard, educators need to facilitate authentic digital learning experiences for students. This chapter explores technologies that augment students’ experience, development and readiness for employability. This chapter looks at how educational technology is used to simulate the workplace by capturing and reflecting on actions in real world situations, while recognising that using technology of the workplace can facilitate learning outcomes. Three case studies look at the use of social media, developing reflective e-portfolios and recording simulations to support reflective learning.