Wednesday, June 10, 2009

Instructional Technology Programs: Strategies for Locating your Ideal Degree

By Sophia Peters

So, you are contemplating a degree in instructional design. The first thing to know is that there are various instructional design degrees and instructional technology degrees available, but the specific preparation and concentrations may be different depending on what you want to do when you graduate. At present, most colleges and universities only offer instructional design degrees at the graduate level. These are " MS, MA, MEd, EDS, and PhD programs.

Second, consider what instructional designers to, an how that relates to your professional goals. Also, remember that the instructional designers task is to develop instructional content that is to be used by teachers, trainers, instructional designers, with the goals of enhancing learning outcomes. Hence, instructional technologists make decisions on the effectiveness of delivery methods, instructional outcomes, and learning experiences. It therefore requires the instructional designer to have a good working knowledge of educational psychology, selecting instructional media, and understanding learners.

As a prospective graduate student, it is vital to take into account various factors when selecting your ideal instructional design program. Hence you should keep in mind your future career goals, your area of expertise and professional interests, online learning options, and how much it will cost you to complete your program of study.

Another consideration when doing your research on the schools is what names to type in for your Internet searches. Some fairly common titles of programs are: Instructional Design, Development and Evaluation, Learning Technologies, Educational Technology, , Instructional Technology, Instructional Design and Development, Instructional Systems Technology, Instructional Design, Instructional Design and Technology, Instructional and Performance Technology, and Computer Education. The importance of knowing this is that the name of the program might indicate the coursework you will be expected to complete.

Another important consideration is whether your prospective graduate program is accredited. Being accredited mean that the program has undergone self-evaluation, it has been reviewed by peers and peer institutions, and accreditation bodies. Accreditation bodies are tasked with evaluating program to ensure that they conform to established standards that address the goals, mission, objectives, curriculum, students, faculty, administration, finances, and physical facilities and resources. Most employers will require you to have a degree attained from an accredited program. In addition, if you ever need to transfer or join another program, your new institution will evaluate whether your degree is worthwhile.

Instructional 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.

When feasible pay a visit to the college you are interested in and talk to both faculty and students in the program. Ask questions about internships and future employment. Also ask questions about the programs of study available to you. This will better assist you in making a final decision. Observe what computer, classroom, and library resources are available.

An academic advisor will generally be assigned to work with you in developing your program of study. Different programs have different course requirements and some departments may offer specialized tracks and courses that encourage specialization in different areas in instructional design. This all depends on the structure and makeup of the program and options for electives.

Instructional design is a growing field for people who enjoy training, working with learners, developing multimedia, and designing instructional content. The profession has established a broad knowledge base in learning psychology, cultural studies, and media studies. The profession continues to expand as more organizations move toward e-learning, human performance technology, and other instructional modes.

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