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School Tech Through the Decades
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AV in the 1950s
Educators in the 1950s primarily used filmstrips and listening labs. Another interesting machine was the Skinner Teaching Machine which was a form of self-paced instruction that provided immediate feedback. Instructional technology was mostly to transfer information to the learner. -
AV in the 1960s
In the 1960s computers and other devices like the ditto machine made their appearance. Intsructional technology was still primarily used for knowledge transfer. Other improvements, however, began to make their appearance, like the overhead projector and ditto machine. Support was primarily outsourced. Computers were used in an academic setting for solving problems, but rarely in the K12 setting. -
Instructional Tech in the 1970s
More tools for standarizing instruction began to appear, like the Scantron machine for grading tests. By the middle to end of the decade, micro computers began to appear in schools. Technology was managed by librarians, computer lab staff, and teachers. -
Instructional Technology in the 1980s
Instructional television reappeared (first seen in the 1950s) with a new focus to early learning. Shows like Reading Rainbow were used as instructional supplements. Personal computers gained more of a foothold in the K12 setting, with Apple reigning over the elementary classrooms, and IBM holding onto the secondary classrooms. Computer instruction was mostly "how-to" or content based. More technology staff positions began to be created, as well as teacher certification programs in technology. -
Instructional Technology in the 1990s
Computers in instruction came into their own in the 1990s. Networked computers with Internet access became much more common. Email became a widely used tool. Computers, often in a lab setting, were used for learning, information access, and creation of learning products. CD-ROMs were the new encyclopedia. Distance education through cameras and networks boomed. The government began to require and fund certain levels of technology. More instructional and support positions reflected the growth. -
Instructional Technology in the 21st Century
This century marked the wide appearance of mobile devices with wireless access to the internet and their acceptance and growing use in instruction. Social media becomes a major communication tool leveraged by many forward-thinking educators. Gaming grows in acceptance for learning. Most districts have computer access. Most states require computer instruction for graduation, and teacher certification in technology. Support is tiered and grows to support the devices.
