instructional technology

Definition

The umbrella term for all the digital tools and platforms that professors struggle to use during class while students politely pretend not to notice. Encompasses everything from learning management systems to interactive whiteboards that never seem to calibrate correctly.

Example Usage

The instructional technology department spent $50,000 on new clickers that students already hate because their phones exist.

Origin

Emerged in the 1960s alongside audiovisual education movements, modernized in the 1990s with computer integration

Fun Fact

Despite billions invested in instructional technology, studies show the single biggest factor in student success remains quality of face-to-face interaction with instructors.

Source: Educational technology professional standards

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