Authentic Learning in a Technology-Rich Classroom: Innovative Education in the Classroom

Abstract

A recurring challenge in nearly every education is how to effectively integrate new and emerging technologies into existing curricula and existing learning places. In this paper, what is not new is the general approach to learning and instruction – namely, authentic learning. What is new and innovative are the ways and means to make authentic meaningful and effective using new digital technologies. To state the case briefly, what is not new is how best to support learning. What is new is putting that knowledge into practice in the technology-rich classrooms of the 21st century. We describe the basic principles of authentic learning and illustrate how they can be effectively integrated and supporting using state-of-the-practice technologies.