Book Review: Technological Applications in Adult and Vocational Education Advancement, edited by Wang, V. C. X.

Abstract

Wang, V. C. X. (Ed.). (2013). Technological Applications in Adult and Vocational Education Advancement. Hershey, PA: IGI Global. 279 pp. ISBN 978-1-46662062-9 (hardcover) Technology has become an essential part of today's society. Daily activities from banking to shopping have been transformed by technological applications designed to simplify a consumer's life. In Victor C. X. Wang's Technological Applications in Adult and Vocational Education, practitioners are reminded of the misconception technology can replace adult employees in vocational and adult (p. xv). Instead technology should be used to the learning experience. The authors examine how technological applications may be used in a variety of settings. This book serves as a guide for educators to understand how one may utilize technology to foster a change in behavior with appropriate teaching methods and instructional technologies. While not required by most organizations, adult educators are encouraged to seek additional training and knowledge on the use of technology in the facilitation of learning among adults. Despite the increasing use of technological applications, Wang reminds educators that humans created technology. Its purpose includes serving the learning needs of the leaner, and the instructional needs of the instructor. The authors focus on how technology may be used to transform adult learners into critical thinkers and reflectors instead of replacing them. Individuals from universities around the world author the 18 chapters within the book. Chapters provide educators and administrators with insight on some of the more unfamiliar, yet significant, uses of technology in adult education. Chapters discuss workplace incivility, academic success predictors, fair use of information technology, collaborative learning, and educational leadership. Several chapters bring attention to issues of technology and education prevalent in mainstream media and society. Chapter 3 examines the educational quality of online learning programs in Assuring Quality in Online Course Delivery. The authors discuss how institutions look to harness the power of the Internet and technology to provide desirable learning modalities and quality educational interactions. The book considers factors important to quality online course delivery, including effective course design, continuous faculty engagement, and administrative support. The authors continue by recommending faculty members who teach online courses to locate and utilize tools that enhance course instruction for better student learning and engagement, such as the use of discussion boards, blogs, and other virtual learning applications. …