Hubble's Expanding Universe: a Model for Quality in Technology Infused engineering and Technology Education

Abstract

Until Edwin Hubble’s discoveries in 1924, astronomers thought that our Milky Way galaxy was the entire universe. Hubble provided a model of a larger universe beyond our galaxy and an expanding universe. Since then the Hubble telescope has allowed us to view galaxies farther and farther away and introduce ideas beyond our comprehension nearly a century ago. This seems an appropriate model for the expanding universe of learning that is provided by technology. Technology has provided us with an expanding view of our individual and collective universe of engineering and technology education. It has provided expanded access to information and increased opportunities for communication. Our learning communities can span our neighborhood, field of interest and the globe. However, just as Hubble’s expanded universe brought challenges to astronomy, the expanded access to education comes with challenges in assuring quality. KEywoRdS Astronomy, Education, Hubble Space Telescope, Technology Education, Technology Infused Engineering