My Instructional Design Definition

My term for the field is: Instructional design, integrating technology and employee/student training and development.

 For my definition of the field and because I work in a business environment, I wanted to cover all the bases in regard to my definition so to me: 1) instructional design implies the framework for the education/training; 2) integrating (use of) technology meaning online courses, internet, social media, lecture with use of PowerPoint, Wikis, Blogs, live interviews (such as Skype), online research/library, implies the use of anything and everything that will aid and promote learning/education; 3) and employee/student training and development implies the actual area, courses, curriculum, and outcomes that are needed for the learning objectives and best outcomes. My definition is also based on the premise of lots of feedback, updates and changes. There is always room for improvement.

I have some experience in the area of training due in part to my education. I have a Masters Degree in Human Resources, with an emphasis on corporate training and development. Also, before my employer had a Corporate University, the technicians and assistants were expected to learn new skills and technology (at the time this meant computer software), and to teach and assist others in their sections. This worked out well for me because I have always had an interest in life long learning. My definition is so descriptive because from my viewpoint, had I not been exposed in the instructional area by my education and my job, I probably would have a hard time figuring out exactly what is meant by instructional design and technology. That is why I elaborated on my definition.

My Redesign of ID Model

My instructional model is learner based. I think the more steps the better because you can always delete steps if they are not needed, but it is hard to figure out what step you missed if it is not in a planned model. After I assess the need for training, I then consider goals and objectives of the training. If possible, consulting other interested members (team) if not research to find empirical or expert information/instructions. Next, it is a good idea to analyze the learners because it may make a big difference it course design due to age range, subject matter, or reason for the training/course. The preceding is the basic information (frame) needed for the design. Then, with the frame in place, I would begin to develop the course, keeping in mind the goals and objectives, and try to build in assessments for monitoring throughout the course. Next, I would assess the learner success in the course and gage the learner and course outcome. Finally, I would revise or improve the course if needed. From beginning to end, team, associate, or learner input would always be welcomed and appreciated.

This model fits well into my present work environment and I think especially works well for adult learners.



Technology Past and Future

Technology is used quite a bit in Higher Education for distance learning courses, E-Library for research, and administrative purposes, such as registration, recordkeeping, and Email. There are degrees that are offered solely online. For Adult Education, you may take tests, online courses, or register for courses. K-12 has some exposure to technology such as word processing in doing homework, and computer research for reports, and some drill work and tests, but for the most part, is still operating through the primary instructional media of teacher, chalkboard, and textbook.

The future of technology in education will be great. My thoughts are that Higher Education will continue to lead the way to use of more technology. I see more enhancement of technology such as blogs, wikis and other social media to add to the curriculum. I think more online degrees will be enhanced with more social media and collaborative types such as Wikis. Also, I think more and more distance learning will take place, forcing more technology into the curriculum. Adult Education will continue to use more technology and be enhanced by collaborative media. For K-12, I think there will soon be a computer in every classroom (maybe IPads or laptops) to enhance student learning. K-12 already is ahead of the game with their use of YouTube, Internet, and the social network sites, so the transition to a majority of technology in the classroom does not seem out of sight.

Blog Creation for ETEC 561

I look forward to an enlightening course.