Learning technology is now an integral part of all learning and development activity. Understanding what these technologies are, how they work and their aims is key to successful L&D practice. Learning Technology is written by a leading voice in the learning tech industry. It explains the history of learning tech, its aims and how it is the fundamental technology that has driven learning, culture and progress. This book covers everything from writing to printing, broadcast media, teaching technology as well as detailed discussion of learning management systems (LMSs), learning experience platforms (LXPs) and learning record stores (LRSs). It also highlights the importance of data and analytics and covers the latest developments in the learning technology space including artificial intelligence, virtual reality and the metaverse. Learning Technology helps L&D professionals assess and better understand learning platforms and teaching technologies, both past and present. it supports this by evaluating the benefits of each technology. It also provides insights into the future of work and learning and offers a comprehensive overview and detailed exploration of the topic. Cover Contents List of figures and tables Preface List of abbreviations 01 Learning technology Techn-ology Learning technology Technology and learning Learning technologies Dialectic of learning and technology Technology matters Conclusion References 02 Prehistoric learning technology Homo technus From stone axe to smartphone Learning technology simulators Baldwin effect Evolution and learning Conclusion References 03 Writing Writing: the Big Bang of learning technology Alphabets – simplified writing and turbo charged learning Scribing devices Typewriter Writing mediums Conclusion References 04 Printing and books Printing technology Printing and literacy Products of print Printed works as learning technology Libraries Textbooks Distribution Screen technology Conclusion References 05 Broadcast and media Radio Film Television Conclusion References 06 Teaching technology Classroom technology Subject-specific technology Technology of punishment Technology of cheating Conclusion References 07 Teaching machines Teaching and learning machines Learning theories Assistive technology Assistive learning technology Simulators Conclusion References 08 Computers and the internet Informal learning Personal computer visionaries Personal computer Tablets Ebooks Smartphones Mobile learning The internet Conclusion References 09 Platforms Learning platforms History of learning management systems Virtual learning environments Learning management Learning experience platforms Webinar platforms MOOCs Social platforms Adaptive platforms Digital adoption platforms Practice platforms Smart platforms Databases Conclusion References 10 Content Where does content come from? How is content used? Informal learning Formal learning How is formal content delivered? Smart content Resources not courses How is content created? Artificial intelligence (AI) Conclusion References 11 Artificial intelligence AI as a learning technology Mathematics and AI AI learning systems AI for learning Neurotechnology Conclusion References 12 Metaverse Metaverse and learning Metaverse VR and AR What to learn in the Metaverse? How can we learn in the Metaverse? How best to learn in the Metaverse? Evolution of learning technology Conclusion References Index "Learning technology is now an integral part of all learning and development (L&D) activity. Understanding what these technologies, are, how they work and their aims is key to successful L&D practice. Learning Technology is written by a leading voice in the learning tech industry with over 35 years' experience. It explains the history of learning tech, its aims, its introduction to the workplace and the benefits to both the individual and the business. This book covers everything from online and mobile learning, simulations and gamification as well as detailed discussion of Learning Management Systems (LMSs), Learning Experience Platforms (LXPs) and Learning Record Stores (LRSs). This book also highlights the importance of data and analytics and covers the latest developments in the learning technology space including artificial intelligence, virtual reality and the metaverse. Most importantly, Learning Technology helps L&D professionals assess where their budget is best spent on technology and explains how to analyse the return on investment (ROI). Full of examples and practical advice throughout, this book also includes case studies from organizations including British Airways, UK National Health Service (NHS) and Learning Pool"-- Provided by publisher Use this practical book from a learning technology expert to understand what learning technologies are, how they work and assess where budget is best spent to maximize ROI.
