LESSON 9: TECHNOLOGY AS AN INSTRUCTIONAL INVESTMENT
Katherine L. Squires

1. Undertake an Internet Search of Websites addressing Issues of Cost-effectiveness and Cost-benefit analysis of Educational Technology and share your findings via e-mail with the class.

Bruce, Betram. S. "Educational Technology" (University of Illinois):
http://www.educacao.pro.br/educationaltechnologychip.htm

In his article, Bruce suggests a definition of educational technology and states that "research studies compare learning through the use of some new tool versus learning in a traditional way [by conducting a] cost/benefit analysis to measure [the] overall value of the new tools."

Cukier, Judith, "Cost-benefit Analysis of Telelearning: Developing a methodology Framework" (Distance Education - An International Journal Volume 18, Number 1, 1997): http://www.usq.edu.au/dec/decjourn/v18n197/cukier.htm

An abstract provided on the Website states, "although costs and benefits of distance education have been evaluated, there are few examples where a cost-benefit analysis has been applied to a variety of different educational technologies. This paper summarizes some of the cost-benefit methodologies expressed in the academic literature. The examples presented here have been categorized into four main groups, representing the different approaches to cost-benefit analysis for technology and distance education: values, mathematical models, comparative studies, and return of investment. Finally, an integrated methodology useful in the evaluation of educational technologies is presented."

Mitchell, John "Cost Benefit and Effectiveness Issues in the Introduction of Educational Technology:" http://www.jma.com.au/openlearncost.htm

In his summary he writes, "the aim of this paper is to raise a number of issues regarding cost benefits and cost effectiveness in relation to the introduction of educational technology, in order to stimulate discussion, not to offer simple answers. Costs, benefits and measures of effectiveness are often not identified when innovative uses of educational technology are planned. The paper provides a summary of instances where cost benefit and cost effectiveness analyses are useful in the planning of innovations."

2. Develop your own particular position on technology as an effective instructional tool, and share your perspectives via e-mail with other classmates and the instructor.

In my experience, technology as a delivery platform and tool for learning and instruction is powerful when implemented based on the learning needs of the learner. For technology to be an effective instructional tool there needs to be specific technology goals, values and objectives for technology use. Technology can provide greater accessibility to a fast-growing and ever-changing student population. In order to effectively reach these changing demographics we need solid technology plans that ask hard questions such as, (i) will technology be used to support a challenging curriculum through engaging instructional practices; (ii) will there be a collaborative effort to involve all the stakeholders; (iii) will there be financial support that grows as technology changes; and (iv) will there be a commitment to training administration, faculty and students and support on an on-going basis. These are just a few of the questions we need to examine if we want technology to be a successful tool for access to and delivery of exceptional instruction.