Instructional Technologies of the Future

Projected technological developments are described and analyzed for their relation to education, including very large scale integrated circuits and microcomputers, videodiscs, instructional networks, Dynabook, electronic publishing, devices for creative expression (word processor, electronic palette, music composition aids, computer-aided design), learning prostheses for the handicapped, and authoring facilities for course materials. Four strategic issues are raised, whose resolution will influence the way instructional technologies are developed and integrated into American education: (1) whether new technologies should be used to deal with new or with existing problems; (2) how the behavioral sciences can respond to the paradigm shift occurring with regard to cognition, from an emphasis on fact and skill acquisition methods to the study and development of intelligent, knowledge-based instructional systems; (3) how talents can be mobilized to produce sufficient high-quality instructional materials; and (4) how educational organizations can adapt to capitalize on the new technologies. Finally, future goals are discussed, and current formats which may utilize the potential of the new technologies are listed. A 27-item reference list is included. (LMM)