In an era when people can carry the Internet in their pocket, teaching and learning must obviously be reconsidered. The increased use of handheld and portable devices, along with pervasive wireless networking, means that structured learning opportunities are becoming an "any time, anywhere" enterprise. We talk about this shift in terms of ubiquity: the traditional divide between formal and informal contexts of learning is breaking down. Technological as well as social, cultural, and institutional changes mean that learning is a continuous possibility across spatial and temporal barriers. Learners of all ages expect, and often need, structured learning opportunities in a "just in time" mode; this puts new meaning and vitality into the traditional idea of "lifelong learning."

Nicholas C. Burbules, Director

Department of Education Policy, Organization and Leadership