The SAGE Encyclopedia of Educational Technology
- J. Michael Spector - University of North Texas, USA
Technology
Leveraging the power of technology to support teaching and learning is certainly not new. But with more low-cost, easy-to-use, easily accessible devices and systems than ever before, we are at a critical inflection point where we must decide how technology powers and aids learning in the classroom.
But is new technology the cure-all all? Some studies have shown students retain information better in traditional print formats. There’s no question about the potential for new technologies to improve learning, but it’s all in how it’s approached, adapted, and used toward the service of achieving real gains in student performance. It’s issues like this that are explored within the pages of this new Encyclopedia. To maximize shelf life, the editor and authors strove to focus on core topics and issues that will retain relevance in the face of perpetually evolving devices, services and specific techniques.
Features include:
- A collection of 300-350 entries that are organized in A-to-Z fashion in two volumes available in a choice of print or electronic formats.
- Entries, authored by key figures in the field, conclude with cross references and further readings.
- Although organized A-to-Z, a Reader’s Guide groups related articles within broad, thematic areas.
- A detailed Index, the Reader’s Guide themes, and Cross References combine for search-and-browse in the electronic version.
"Either version of this Encyclopedia will be a solid addition to the library of the researcher and academic alike. Recommended for academic libraries."
"...Overall, this encyclopedia is now the most current, comprehensive reference work about educational technology. Given how educational technology continues to influence teaching and learning in higher education, this encyclopedia should be considered a necessity for any academic reference collection. Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-level undergraduates through researchers/faculty; professionals/practitioners."
"These are two very impressive volumes...They have all the helpful features of quality reference works, from glossary to index. The authorship is as diverse as the content, and the editorial board distinguished....To ensure merited use, give its impressive scope and quality, I urge college faculty to place it on their class library reserve lists and require responses to pertinent articles from their students."
Starred Review: "...The set is comprehensive without being overly broad, and entries give sufficient depth to include discussion of research as well as providing definitions, applications, and implications for the direction of education in the future. This updated content is long overdue but well worth the wait. VERDICT: Highly recommended for upper-division education students and researchers or faulty in any subject area."
