What is Educational Technology?

Educational Technology - also known variously as e-learning, instructional technology and learning technology - is the use of technology to support the learning process. Although the term can refer to all kinds of analogue technologies, eg photographs, film, video, audio recordings etc, it is usually used to talk specifically about digital computer technology.
Although technology is widely used in the administration and management of education (eg student records, marketing, procurement, finance etc etc) and in research, educational technology is only concerned with technology as it impacts upon the learning process, eg in delivering learning materials, faciliating communication and providing assessment and feedback.
Technology can benefit both traditional (ie face-to-face) and open and distance learning models. And perhaps it makes it easier to combine different models to provide a blended learning experience tailored to the individual's needs.