Definitions

Definition of technology:
Technology is the usage and knowledge of tools, techniques, crafts, systems or methods of organization. Technologies significantly affect human as well as other animal species' ability to control and adapt to their natural environments. The human species' use of technology began with the conversion of natural resources into simple tools. Technology has affected society and its surroundings in a number of ways. In many societies, technology has helped develop more advanced economies (including today's global economy) and has allowed the rise of a leisure class. (Wikipedia)


Instructional technology:
In education, instructional technology is "the theory and practice of design, development, utilization, management, and evaluation of processes and resources for learning," according to the Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT) Definitions and Terminology Committee.[1] Instructional technology is often referred to as a part of educational technology but the use of these terms has changed over the years.[2] While instructional technology covers the processes and systems of learning and instruction, educational technology includes other systems used in the process of developing human capability.

The first use of instructional technology cannot be attributed to a specific person or time. Many histories of instructional technology start in the early 20th century, while others go back to the 17th century. This depends on the definition of instructional technology. Definitions that focus on a systems approach tend to reach further back in history, while those definitions focused on sensory devices are more recent. (Wikipedia)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Instructional_technology


Educational technology:
Educational technology (also called learning technology) is the study and ethical practice of facilitating learning and improving performance by creating, using and managing appropriate technological processes and resources.The term educational technology is often associated with, and encompasses, instructional theory and learning theory. While instructional technology covers the processes and systems of learning and instruction, educational technology includes other systems used in the process of developing human capability. Educational Technology includes, but is not limited to, software, hardware, as well as Internet applications and activities. But there is still debate on what these terms mean

Educational technology is most simply and comfortably defined as an array of tools that might prove helpful in advancing student learning. Educational Technology relies on a broad definition of the word "technology". Technology can refer to material objects of use to humanity, such as machines or hardware, but it can also encompass broader themes, including systems, methods of organization, and techniques. Some modern tools include but are not limited to overhead projectors, laptop computers, and calculators. Newer tools such as "smartphones" and games (both online and offline) are beginning to draw serious attention for their learning potential.

Bibliography:
Wikipedia (2010). Technology. Retrieved 2010, From
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Technology

Wikipedia (2010). Instructional Tecnology. Retrieved 2010, from
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Instructional_technology

Wikipedia (2010). Educational technology. Retrieved 2010, from
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Educational_technology