What is “convergence” as applied in cybertechnology? How might it influence the courses you teach online in coming years?
Convergence within cybertechnology is the tendency for seemingly distinct elements of computing and informational technologies, to evolve upon interaction through informing and changing each other, and ultimately synergizing to create something new. As Rheingold (1992) describes it, technological convergence is a “‘phenomenon that occurs when apparently unrelated scientific and technological paths’ cross or intersect ‘unexpectedly to create an entirely new field’” (as cited in Tavani, 2015, p. 317). One example that Tavani (2015) gives of “convergence” as applied in cybertechnology is that of virtual reality technology, which is a synergism of video technology and computer hardware. When used for educational purposes, it allows the learner inside an immersive experience unlike the 3-D worlds viewed from a computer screen. …show more content…
Online learning is a type of convergence itself, an interaction between the traditional classroom and computing and communication technologies. Any new convergences of informational technology will affect functionality and create new opportunities for the merging of data, voice and video infrastructure, which will influence online education. I can see the importance of staying informed and being a part of these changes to help advance education. I do believe in treading carefully though. While we cannot know the full learning benefits of new technology, we also cannot be sure of all the possible dangers. Being informed will help me to consider the possible ethical concerns to inform and protect myself and my
Convergence within cybertechnology is the tendency for seemingly distinct elements of computing and informational technologies, to evolve upon interaction through informing and changing each other, and ultimately synergizing to create something new. As Rheingold (1992) describes it, technological convergence is a “‘phenomenon that occurs when apparently unrelated scientific and technological paths’ cross or intersect ‘unexpectedly to create an entirely new field’” (as cited in Tavani, 2015, p. 317). One example that Tavani (2015) gives of “convergence” as applied in cybertechnology is that of virtual reality technology, which is a synergism of video technology and computer hardware. When used for educational purposes, it allows the learner inside an immersive experience unlike the 3-D worlds viewed from a computer screen. …show more content…
Online learning is a type of convergence itself, an interaction between the traditional classroom and computing and communication technologies. Any new convergences of informational technology will affect functionality and create new opportunities for the merging of data, voice and video infrastructure, which will influence online education. I can see the importance of staying informed and being a part of these changes to help advance education. I do believe in treading carefully though. While we cannot know the full learning benefits of new technology, we also cannot be sure of all the possible dangers. Being informed will help me to consider the possible ethical concerns to inform and protect myself and my