Emerging Technologies

Tablet Computing According to the Horizon Report (2013), tablets have captured the imagination of educators around the world, being led with the incredible success of the iPad. This year, the administration approved a new technology agreement that has permitted student use of hand held electronics with the ability to connect through the school wifi. Students have since been using their tablets, Kindles, iPods, etc. to assist in the completion of their assignments. From the available options, I would consider the tablet, a form that does not require a mouse or keypad, to be viewed as an emerging technology. The Horizon Report (2013) states that these devices have become more used and understood as distinct and independent of other mobile devices such as smartphones, e-readers, or tablet PCs. My rational for selecting the tablet is because of its ease of use and adaptability. In the adult learning environment, the tablet could provide many of the necessary applications previously attainable from the “home computer”. The tablet is portable and is conducive to learning outside the classroom as well, providing the adult learner the ability to learn in virtually any scenario. Mobile Apps Coupled with tablet integration is the ability to download and use mobile apps to assist with research, composition, interfacing etc. Many disciplines now have mobile apps dedicated to deeper exploration of specific subjects, from the periodic table of elements to histories of art movements (Horizon Report, 2013). The use of apps in the adult learning environment will provide up to the minute information as well as further increase the ability to learn on the go. Mobile apps are particularly useful for learning as they enable people to learn and experience new concepts wherever they are, across multiple devices (Horizon Report, 2013). Jane Reference: The New Media Consortium (2013). Horizon project short list: 2013 Higher education edition. Retrieved from: http://www.nmc.org/pdf/2013-horizon-higher-ed-shortlist.pdf.