Technology use in learning

Can these devices be helpful in learning?

We can say that the main objective of technologic devices is to help humans be more effective in whatever they are use these for. In the case of academic learning, some Universities are trying to implement new devices, such as Amazon’s Kindle or Apple’s iPad, to some of their MBA programs. But, to what extent are these new devices useful for learning?

Our new generation is definitely technologically savvy, mainly given because personal computers already existed when we were born. However, in the case of reading, it is very different reading from a screen than from paper. Some people find it much easier using normal textbooks rather than laptops or computers, but this may be because the latter make it easier to get distracted (i.e. Internet).

One issue with technology is how fast it develops. Just consider that most companies in the world are still running Windows XP with Microsoft Office 2003. Keeping up with technological advance is certainly very difficult.

In any case, technology can certainly be used in learning. Using devices such as the iPad increases the variety of ways of learning. Animations, videos, podcasts, and so on, could help very much in learning.

Further reading: MBAs and technology