1. Educational Technology

2. Definition
It should be noted that there is no single agreed definition for Educational Technology, however the definition below seem relevant; Educational Technology Is a combination of the processes and tools involved in addressing educational needs and problems, with an emphasis on applying the most current digital and information tools (Roblyer and Doering:2013)

3. Brief history of Educational Technology
The Pre-computer era 1950 (first computer was used for instruction) – late 1970s (CAI movement declines and computer literacy movement begins) The Microcomputer Era 1977 (first computer i.e. Desktops enter schools) – 1990s (Integrated Learning networked Systems in schools emerge)

4. Internet Era 1993 (WWW is born – teachers enter the information highway) – 1998 (Technology standards are set to guide students, teachers and administrators) Mobile Technologies (The Era of ubiquitous access) 2005 (Social networking sites gain popularity) 2007 ebook reader was released by Amazon 2010 Apple releases the first iPad handheld computer

5. Future of Educational Technology
Horizon Report notes that;
Computing is increasingly cloud based with information and programs stored in servers and accessed online
Increased use of devices with artificial intelligence such as robots that emulate some teachers functions (Stasberry, 2010)

6. Future trends in hardware and software development
Ubiquitous mobile computing
More sources of open content
Increased ebook presence
Augmented reality systems
Gesture based systems

7. Future of Educational Technology: Educational Trends
Flexible learning environments
Adaptable assessment options
Emphasis on communication and collaboration
Reliance on learning at a distance
Increased educational options for students with disabilibities