Technologies Changing Learning Landscapes

This post is provided by guest blogger, Brianna Richardson, graduate student at the University of St. Francis in Joliet, MS in Training and Development program.

Cutting-edge technologies are making education more accessible and engaging. “How Modern Technology Is Reshaping the E-Learning Industry,” by Simon Moser (2021) for Entrepreneur, gives us an overview of which technologies are challenging traditional learning models to change. The author discusses the impacts of innovations like artificial intelligence, data analytics, and virtual reality. Algorithms let educators and institutions gain insight about students by analyzing large sets of data. Moser highlights how artificial intelligence is being used to predict learning needs and customize training plans. He also explores the ways virtual reality is being used to create interactive learning experiences that increase engagement. 

I recommend this article to those seeking a comprehensive overview of the ways that current technology is impacting e-learning. It provides insight on current technologies being used to identify topics that students need help with, and personalize the learning experience (Moser, 2021). However, the analysis did not mention the issues that this technology may pose in its wide-spread adoption. There is still much to be learned about the implications of storing large amounts of data and how to create algorithms that are unbiased. The reader should consider these issues with a critical lens and continue to learn about the technology.

Reference

Moser, S. (2021, January 10). How modern technology is reshaping the e-learning industry. Entrepreneur. https://www.entrepreneur.com/science-technology/how-modern-technology-is-reshaping-the-e-learning-industry/361812

Links to an external site.

ChatGPT: What’s it doing for/to me?

This post is brought to you by your genial novice blogger, Daniel Liestman, a graduate student in the University of St. Francis’ (Joliet, IL) MS in Training and Development program.

Last November, Open AI released an advanced chatbot like no other.  ChatGPT (generative pre-trained transformer) draws on Internet information.  It’s RLHF, or Reinforcement Learning from Human Feedback component, however, provides the human-like quality.  While ChatGPT may stir anxiety in some, it can be used as an effective learning tool.  For example, how might learners construct an AI generated argument and then analyze and critique it?  Further, how might learners hone their own questioning skills to spark discovery? Such AI can also foster individualized learning as well as doing administrative work for instructors while also doing instructional planning.

Stephens, an educational consultant with degrees from Harvard and Stanford, has no idea what ChatGPT bodes. But neither do we.  AI, for her, has a place in learning, but also in reducing instructors’ grunt work. I recall the story of a professor who audio taped a lecture for a day he was out.  While the reel-to-reel played atop the lectern, a cassette recorder on each student’s desk taped the lecture. While the technology has changed,  AI may well imitate this cautionary tale at the moment expense of learning.

Stephens, D. (2023, May 16). ChatGPT examples to use artificial intelligence in education. Nearpod Blog.  https://nearpod.com/blog/chatgpt-ai-artificial-intelligence/

Holograms: Training and The Future of Education

This post is provided by guest blogger, Brandon Rinker, graduate student University of St. Francis, MS Training and Development program

Hologram or augmented reality (AR) is a computer-generated environment from real world surroundings.  Because of the design, it is helping educators and training instructors use this technology in the classroom and workplace environment.  Holograms can be used in the classroom to help students with all topics from history to science.  Continue reading

Training Transformation Through Technology

This post is provided by guest blogger, Dianna Doyle, graduate student at the University of St. Francis in Joliet, Illinois, MS in Training and Development program.

Five technologies are transforming the way businesses and organizations design, deliver, and evaluate learning. These technologies can be integrated into training and development programs in innovative, practical ways.  Continue reading

AI: It’s learning from us, so we better learn it!

This post is provided by guest blogger, George Skerritt, graduate student of the University of St. Francis, MS Training and Development program.

In very much the same way market research is conducted and improved through the evaluation of search engine behavior and demographics, educators can harness the power of AI as part of the learning and development process.  Continue reading