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Pointers for being a Successful Instructional Design Student

05.17.2009 · Posted in Reference and Education Articles

If you are trying to decide on whether a career as an instructional designer is for you, there are a few things to consider. First, remember that you have many options for schools that offer instructional design and instructional technology but you must choose the right one for you depending on what you want to do when you graduate. In most universities, the degree is available only at the graduate level, and programs offered may include M.Ed, M.S., A.M., Ed.D., Ph.D, and Ed.D.nnThe second thing to consider it what instructional designers do and how that fits with yours interests. Keep in mind that instructional technologists develop content that is used by trainers, other instructional designers, teachers, instructors, etc, with the goal of improving or enhancing instructional outcomes and effectiveness. Instructional designers make decisions on effectiveness of instructional methods, and instructional delivery for a stated set of learning outcomes. Therefore, this requires one to have good knowledge of learning psychology, learner analysis, and instructional media selection. nnAs a future student, you ought to consider several issues when selecting your ideal program or university. It is important to think about your future professional goals, your expertise and interests, distance learning options, and the cost of the program. nnAnother thing to consider when conducting your research is how the program my be titled in the catalog. Common program names are Educational Technology, Computer Education, Instructional Technology, Instructional Design and Development, Instructional Systems Technology, Instructional Design, Learning Technologies, Instructional Design and Technology, Instructional and Performance Technology, and Instructional Design, Development and Evaluation. It is quite useful to now this as it generally is a good indicator of the coursework that you will be engaged in during the program. nnAnother important issue to consider is whether the university you are contemplating is one that has accreditation. Being accredited means that the graduate program has undergone in-depth self-evaluation evaluation by peer institution and peers, and accrediting bodies. Accreditation organizations have the task of performing evaluations so as to ensure that the programs are conforming to the established mission and goals, objectives and curricula, administrative and financial stipulations, as well as faculty and student expectations. Also, if you ever have to join a new program at a different university or to transfer your credits, the new institution will determine whether your degree is credible, so it is best to ensure the institution you graduate from is accredited. nnInstructional design programs of study prepare you for different specializations. Instructional designers and instructional technologists, and e-learning personnel all work in various environments including companies, corporations, K-12, higher education, government, military, and non-profit organizations.nnIf possible, visit the schools you want to enroll in and talk to the faculty and students in the program. Ask questions about employment and internships as well as the kinds of courses you will be required to take.This will help you select the program that best meets your goals. Also take time to examine facilities such as classroom, computer and library resources. nnYour academic advisor can help you in the process of developing a program of study that fits your goals. The programs have required courses to provide general preparation to practice in the profession. Some departments also offer specialized tracks or courses that permit or encourage concentration in a specific area. The opportunity to specialize depends on the availability of relevant courses, on focused class projects. nnThe field of instructional design is developing quite rapidly and is ideal for those who enjoy working with learners, training, developing instructional content and multimedia. The instructional technology profession has a good base in educational psychology, instructional media, and computing. The field continues to expand as more organizations adopt e-learning, performance improvement, and other instructional methods.

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