21^st Century E-Learning from the Perspective of a Wired Wisconsin Intern

As a college student in 2010, technology affects my education every day.  My experience is starkly different from my mother who attended the same university many years ago or even my brother who attended the same university just 3 years ago.

Last semester, for the first time, I had an e-book.  I didn’t head to the bookstore to purchase a text; I went online to purchase an account.  I was able to type in my password and access my e-book at any computer instead of lugging around an extra textbook.

 Technology also influences how I study.  While there’s nothing wrong with doing good old-fashioned research at the library; I have the additional option of using online scholarly search engines to find information.   And if I have a question?  Well, then I can just ask a librarian—I can ask via email, text, or even instant messenger.

I am also able to communicate with my professors and fellow classmates through online discussions, or I can just take my entire class online.

The expansion of technology has even allowed me to be taught by a professor in another country.  Once my professor was doing research abroad and had to miss class.  He used ichat, a video chat program, which was projected onto the wall, to teach a class of over 100 students. 

I know that technology has enriched my education.  It also makes learning more accessible for people like non-traditional students who struggle with hectic work schedules or demanding family responsibilities.   The development of technology has provided conveniences such as online classes—advancements that just might be the solution to make furthering their education a reality.  21^st Century e-learning is my Wired Wisconsin Issue.  What’s yours?