Figure 1.2 Technology and humanism are not opposite ends of a single scale but two different variables either of which can be high or low D. A group meets on a regular basis to discuss common reading assignments-low in technology and high in humanism These examples are overly simplified and used only to illustrate the concept, but they serve as a basis for ana- lyzing the relationship between humanism and technol ogy. They illustrate that instruction can be low in both humanism and technology, just as it can be high in both Using instructional technology does not preclude a humane teaching learning environment. On the con- trary, instructional media and technologies for learning can help provide a learning atmosphere in which stu dents actively participate. When instructional media and technology are used properly and creatively in the class room, it is the machines that are turned on and off at will, not the students.