Enhanced learning and leading in a technology-rich, 21st century global learning environment

This chapter explores the evolution of thinking about learning, resulting from the increasingly ubiquitous presence of instructional technology and communications technology in learning environments. It provides a short history of the pedagogical growth of technology usage. It further describes the impact of technology on the potential transformation of four-walled classrooms into global, online learning communities from a constructivist perspective, while looking at learner/teacher roles in the learning process. The Global Forum on School Leadership (GFSL) and the Global Forum on Educational Research (GFER) are introduced as applications of interactive educational technology, suitable for twenty-first century learners, teachers, and school leaders, that emphasize creation of new knowledge using exploration and collaboration through self directed, technology-enhanced 701 E. Chocolate Avenue, Suite 200, Hershey PA 17033, USA Tel: 717/533-8845; Fax 717/533-8661; URL-http://www.idea-group.com ITB12501 INFORMATION SCIENCE PUBLISHING This chapter appears in the book, Enhancing Learning Through Technology edited by Elsebeth Korsgaard Sorensen and Daithi O Murchu © 2006, Idea Group Inc.