As we continue to use such technologies as cell phones, PDAs, palmtops, and virtual devices for everyday activities, educators will need to develop and deliver learning materials on these devices. Educators must proactively influence the design and development of emerging technologies to meet learners’ needs. A good example of this is the one hundred dollar laptop that is being developed by a multidisciplinary team of experts, including educators (OLPC, 2006). The one hundred dollar computer is a global device that will be used by learners around the world since it is affordable.
E-learning materials must be modular to allow for flexibility in delivery. Modular learning materials allow learners to complete a module of instruction at a time rather than an entire course. The learning time for a module of instruction is between two to four hours. The content must be broken down into small chunks and developed as learning objects. The modular format allows the segments of instruction to be tagged and placed in learning object repositories for easy retrieval by learners and instructors. When designing learning materials for emerging technologies, educators must think globally and must design for the future so that the materials do not become obsolete.
Learning systems of the future must develop intelligent systems to relieve tutors from routine decision-making so that they can spend time on issues concerning the learning process. Intelligent systems will be able to design, develop, and deliver instruction to meet learners’ needs. For example, an intelligent agent will be able to identify learners who need extra help and provide an alternative learning strategy. The intelligent agent should anticipate learners’ requirements and respond immediately to take corrective action or to present the next learning intervention based on learners’ characteristics and style to maximize learning benefits. In other words, the intelligent agent should form dynamic profiles of the learner and guide the learner to the next step in the learning process.
One of the major challenges educators will face is how to convert existing learning materials for delivery on emerging technologies rather than redeveloping courses from scratch. It is important to develop learning materials in electronic format so that the information can readily delivered by newer technologies.
“Real learning occurs when learners learn by doing and making things”. – Ally
