The main difference between educational technology and information technology is that educational technology refers to the use of technological tools in the process of learning and teaching while information technology refers to anything related to computing technology, such as hardware, software, networking, and the Internet.
We live in a technologically advanced world, and technology has become a crucial part of our lives. Educational technology is the creation, use, and management of technological processes and educational resources to help improve learners’ academic performance.
Key Areas Covered
1. What is Educational Technology
– Definition, Features, Benefits
2. What is Information Technology
– Definition, Features
3. What is the Difference Between Educational Technology and Information Technology
– Comparison of Key Differences
Key Terms
Educational Technology, Information Technology, IT
What is Educational Technology
Educational technology is basically the use of technology for the process of teaching and learning. This is also known as instructional technology. Educational technology focuses on using new technology to develop and implement innovative educational approaches. The main objective of using educational technology is to improve the process of teaching and learning. In education, technology, technology is used as an educator, as a teaching tool and a learning tool.
The history of educational technology can be traced back to thousands of years – from primitive writing tools such as clay tablets, thick palm leaves, and parchment made of animal skin, to the latest technological developments like artificial intelligence and virtual reality. However, at present, we usually refer to digital technologies by the term educational technology. Using interactive whiteboards, instructional videos, educational computer games, and using hand-held devices like tablets and smartphones are some examples. Educational technology has facilitated the concept of e-learning, i.e., learning online. There are two types of e-learning as synchronous e-learning and asynchronous e-learning. Synchronous learning refers to real-time classes via digital technologies like Skype and chatrooms. Asynchronous learning, on the other hand, refers to students learning the same material at different times across different locations; this uses technologies like blogs, websites, wikis, e-mail, and video-posting sites.
Educational technology has many benefits. Using technology in education can help to keep students interested, engaged and motivated. Moreover, educational technology can help students to set their own pace and encourage self-study. There are many other benefits of educational technology, such as the availability of multiple resources, quick access to information, real-time teaching, and paperless tests and assignments.
What is Information Technology
Information technology, commonly known as IT, is a term that incorporates all forms of technologies, typically computer-based technologies, that are used to store, retrieve, transmit, and manipulate data or information. Moreover, it is the integration of information processing and communication technologies. Information technology is, in fact, a subsection of ICT (information and communications technology).
We generally use the term IT to refer to computers and computer networks. This includes software, hardware, internet/world wide web, databases, etc. However, it can also include other information distribution technologies like television and telephone. There are four distinct phases of IT development: pre-mechanical (from 3000 BC to 1450 AD), mechanical (from 1450 to 1840), electromechanical (from 1840 to 1940), and electronic (from 1940 to present).
Difference Between Educational Technology and Information Technology
Definition
Educational technology is the facilitation of teaching and learning through the use of technology, while information technology is the use of computers to store, retrieve, transmit, and manipulate data or information.
Role
Moreover, educational technology is all about pedagogy and realizing teaching and learning goals through technology. Information technology, on the other hand, is all about computers and computer networks.
Conclusion
The main difference between educational technology and information technology is that educational technology refers to the use of technological tools in the process of learning and teaching while information technology refers to anything related to computing technology, such as hardware, software, networking, and the Internet.
Image Courtesy:
1. “Desktop computer clipart – Yellow theme” By AJ from openclipart.org – (CC0) via Commons Wikimedia
2. “3412498” (CC0) via Pixabay
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