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 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.
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 programs prepare graduates for different areas of specialty. Whether the job title is instructional technologist, e-learning specialist, or instructional designer, one can expect to work in higher education, corporation, K-12 schools, government, military or non-governmental organizations.
If 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.
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.
The 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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