Online Educational Technology Programs and Degrees
eLearning Articles | elearning Resources Educational Technology Programs: Locating the Best Graduate Program for You
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 Master of Education (M.Ed), Master of Science (M.Sc)., Master of Arts (M.A)., Doctor of Education (Ed.D.), and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) Some colleges also offer the Education Specialist Degree (ED.S).
The second thing to keep in mind with educational technology programs is that instructional designers develop content to be used by trainers, instructors, teachers, or other designers, with the purpose of enhancing instructional effectiveness and outcomes. They decide on the most effective instructional delivery methods for a given set of skills and knowledge. Hence, this requires an in-depth knowledge of educational psychology, understanding the learner, and determining the best instructional media to incorporate.
As a prospective student in educational technology programs, 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.
Another thing to consider when conducting your research is how the educational technology programs may 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.
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 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.
Your 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.
The instructional design profession is growing steadily and is perfect for people who enjoy developing training, teaching, and designing multimedia applications. The field has a well established base in educational psychology, computing, and media for instructional purposes. Online educational technology programs continue to flourish as more institutions and organizations adopt performance improvement strategies, e-learning, and other instructional strategies.
E-learning and instructional technology programs:
Online educational technology programs and colleges with online instructional design degree programs
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