Research topics and trends in educational technology

Abstract

A trend is a shift or tendency within a system. Some trends may present an opportunity for advancement of an idea, while others may disrupt, challenge or threaten advancement. Some technological innovations may result in fads or temporary novelties, while others may endure for many years while receiving little attention. Schools may be unable to control the direction in which some trends may lead, but they may be able to leverage other trends to improve teaching and learning. Educational technologies may not cause complete changes in trends in education but are necessary for innovation and improvement. Spector (2013) stated in Emerging Educational Technologies and Research Directions: “the implications for schools really are ground-shaking in the sense that significant transformations need to occur if schools are to be responsive to such trends” (p. 22).