Focusing Educational Technology Research on Informal Learning Environments

In educational technology we see new opportunities for learning popping up everywhere around us. From emerging avenues for personal expression to the stunning speed and efficiency of social networking, we know that the ways of learning are already influencing the types of learning that is happening. However, formal institutions of learning are having a very difficult time responding to the opportunities these kinds of systems afford. We hear talk about “thinning the walls” of educational institutions and we regularly hear that educators’ roles are changing from managing content to connecting learners in new ways to other learners, resources, and expertise