How might we define an Emerging Technology?

I recently attended the 26th Annual Distance Teaching and Learning Conference in Madison, Wisconsin. Great conference, chock full of innovative ideas and practices. I purchased a book while I was there by George Veletsianos, "Emerging Technologies in Distance Education" and although I haven't quite finished it yet, I highly recommend it.

What I would like to share from the book that I found to be valuable is the idea of an emerging technology and how might we define it. There are 5 basic points, according to Veletsianos in designating something an 'Emerging Technology.' (ET)
Read the book for more details and explanation but here is an overview:

1. ET may not necessarily be "new". Which leads to a question to ponder- when would a technology cease to be considered new? 
2. ET are evolving and exist in a state of 'coming into being'.
3. ET commonly go through hype cycles
4. ET satisfy two 'not yet' criteria: a) ET are not yet fully understood and b) ET are not yet fully researched
5. ET are potentially disruptive but their potential is mostly fulfilled.

Another part of the book that I look forward to reading is regarding a model for evaluating and determining if a given ET is right for a learning context. Because isn't that what is all about in our field? Technology A might be the best thing ever for University X but is it a good fit for our students in our courses? How will it engage our students and help them meet our learning objectives? But at the same time this evaluation can be shared with the larger audience to contribute to the research and add to some best practices in the field. When I hear about a new learning technology I can be skeptical at first until I read case studies or reports about how educators are using it and how effective it has been. We, as instructional designers, need to continue to contribute and share our experiences and findings.

What are some emerging technologies that you are curious about? Please share in the comments box below.

I'm anxious to see what will happen to Google Wave and what it might melt into as it's new form? I thought it was quite innovative and was surprised that Google has decided to phase it out. I do believe there is much potential there for use in the context of distance education.