Cliff HuttoColumbus State University

Emerging Trends in Technology

Ubiquitous mobile computingMobile devices in the classroom

More sources of open contentIncreased amounts of free content online

Massive open online courses (MOOCs)Cheaper, more availability courses for everyone…

worldwideIncreased e-book/e-text presence

Replacement of paper textbooksTablet computing

Used in part with mobile computing and e-textsAugmented reality systems

Virtual learning

Trends in Hardware, Software, and System Development

Wearable technologiesGoogle glasses

Gesture-based computingControlling devices with movements

Games and gamificationStudent learning through games

Learning analyticsUsing data to form personalized learning

models3D printing

Using printers to create 3D models

Trends in Hardware, Software, and System Development (cont.)

Flexible Learning EnvironmentsPersonalized Learning Systems (PLS)New Instructional ModelsReliance on Learning at a DistanceIncreased Educational Options for

Students with Disabilities

Trends in Educational Applications

As teachers, we are constantly looking for ways in which students can learn in a fun and interactive way. This is especially true in the Science field.

Limitations of some students with disabilities can sometimes complicate plans for some activities. A student’s disability should not limit his/her learning and experiences.

Technology can allow these students to experience the same forms of learning as all other students.

Using Technology to Increase Educational Options for Students with Disabilities

Lab simulationsAllows students with disabilities to perform

labs without having to worry about injuries from chemicals, flames, etc.

Virtual field tripsEnables students with physical disabilities to

visit places through virtual reality and the use of augmented reality and gesture-based computing.

Virtual Reality

While obtaining my bachelor’s degree in Geology, I befriended someone that was paralyzed from the waist down due to him being shot while living in a foreign country. Our final course to complete our degree was a field study in Montana, mapping terrain and identifying rock/sediment layers. My friend realized that he would not be able to physically complete this course, so he dropped out of the program in his junior year.

During this time, our professor of the course (along with a few other professors) were working on a virtual model of the areas in which we travel in Montana. Although it has yet to be completed, this type of technology would be able to allow students to complete coursework and graduate with degrees in areas of their interest.

Personal Story Related to Virtual Reality Learning