Challenges, Advantages, and Disadvantages of Instructional Technology in the Community College Classroom

This article takes an historical look at the lessons learned in the 20 years ofcomputer-based technology integration (Valdez, McNabb, Foertsch, Anderson, Hawkes, & Raack, 1999). Interjected are the perspectives of usage during the 15-year implementation within a highlighted school district, including current issues related to their technology plan. Whereas some issues associated with technology use have been evident since its inception, others are just now emerging. By studying the progression from a focus on print automation, to learner-centered approaches, to virtual learning via the Internet, strategies applicable in today's classroom are revealed. The consensus of the accumulated knowledge is analyzed in a look at current challenges and trends.