ArticleMsDesign.com » Web-design » Pointers for being a Successful Instructional Design Student
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.
The 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.
As a prospective student, you should consider several factors when choosing between different programs. For instance, think about your future career plans and goals, your interest and expertise in the specialization, geographic mobility, distance learning and online learning opportunities, as well as financial cost.
Something else to look for when doing your search is the name that the programs might be listed as. Common program titles are: Computer Education, Educational Technology, Instructional Design and Development, Instructional Technology, Instructional Systems Technology, Learning Technologies, Instructional Design, Development and Evaluation, Instructional Design and Technology and Instructional and Performance Technology. It is important to know this as this may be an indication of the types of courses you would be taking.
The next important thing to consider is whether the program you select is accredited. Accreditation means that the instructional program has undergone a self-evaluation process, been reviewed by peers, and other accrediting bodies. Accrediting organizations evaluate programs on the conformity to standards, which address mission, goals, and objectives, curriculum, faculty, students, administration and financial support, and physical resources and facilities. Most potential employers require a degree from an accredited university. Also, if you ever have to transfer or join a new programs, your new institution might not accept the credits if the school is not accredited.
Instructional design programs offer different areas of specialization to prepare their students. Instructional designers, instructional technologist, or e-learning specialists work in a variety of different settings in corporations, K-12 schools, universities, government, the military, and non-governmental organizations (NGO's).
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.
You will generally have an academic advisor assigned to you to help you develop a good program of study. Various institutions have different course requirements and some departments do offer special tracks such as multimedia or evaluation specializations. This however is dependent on the overall structure of the program and the available 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.
Article Source: ArticleMsDesign.com
Sophia Peters has been in the area of instructional technology for over ten years. Learn more about learning objectives and blended learning approaches from her website.
by: Sophie Peters Total views: 71 Word Count: 588 Date: Thu, 16 Jul 2009 Time: 9:04 AM 0 comments
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