Current Issues: Issue 1
A Masters in Instructional Technology is a degree that prepares students to improve instruction by integrating technology in the design of the instruction, and in the delivery methods used to present the material. These would include the use of hardware such as the SmartBoard, SmartPad, LCD Projectors, high speed printers, multimedia-computers, and other supportive hardware resources, and they would also include various software and internet applications such as Office Suite, Excel @ Math, Learning Express Advantage, and any of the Larson Series packages. These software applications allow teachers to work with familiar tools which can then be uploaded for easy access (Cloud, 2004). Another area of importance involving the design of instruction is in the techniques used to present the material. With technology being a mainstay in our society, we must develop learners that can be productive in the 21st century. This will include the use of techniques such as group projects, scaffolding, self monitoring and the constructivist approach to instruction. As an instructor, one must plan on gaining the understanding of where and how these technologies can be used to develop 21st century learners, and with this newly acquired knowledge surrounding instructional technology, one would be able to instruct students in an educational setting on how to apply these technologies as well as determine what types of technology can be used. These applications would also allow one to branch out into a supportive role as an instructional technologist either in the private or public sector.
Instructional technology is the study and implementation of research that involves the solving of instructional problems or the enhancement of instruction by improving its design and production. Some of the early research was often times comparative in nature. They looked more closely at what difference there was in the results of effectiveness concerning varying media formats. This as stated in the text makes little sense because any media format can be used effectively or ineffectively. It is not what is used to deliver the information that is important, but rather, what is being delivered (Tiene, 2001). That is true in all aspects of instruction because there is such a diverse learning population. We have for the most part made schools use total inclusion which has forced instructors to develop a level of differentiation as never before, and one of the best methods I have found to overcome the varying learning styles and levels of understanding is through technology. An example of this would be the intervention process I use with the Learning Express Advantage site. I allow students that have difficulty in a particular area to seek intervention in the areas they are deficient. After they have completed the intervention process, they can retake the assessment or resubmit a project for a new grade. This allows students to monitor their progress and take ownership of their learning which makes learning more meaningful. Another set of tools for instructional technology which are inexpensive, effective, and easy to use are screencasting and classroom response systems. The screencasting software allows librarians to create online self-paced tutorials, and the classroom response systems provide direct feedback (Roberts, 2005)
I am studying instructional technology to improve my knowledge level of what technologies are available and how they can best be used to benefit instruction. This information will assist me greatly when I become a Library Media Specialist, and it will allow me to play a more collaborative role in the development of curriculum. In becoming a Library Media Specialist, I will be able to solve problems involving instructional needs as well as provide tools to enhance instruction throughout the entire school. In the high school setting, I will also be able to assist students in the application and use of various Web 2.0 technological tools such as wikis, blogs, podcasts, and newsletters (Cromity, 2008)
After the completion of my degree, there will be a lot of professional development to remain current with the changes and advances being made throughout the field of instructional technology, and I plan to continue pursuing these opportunities. The methods I will use to stay current will include reading various research information as well as literature on innovations in the field of instructional technology, and then, applying that newly gained knowledge and instructing others on its applications.
Ingram,. A., Tiene, D. (2001) Exploring Current Issues in Educational Technology. New York. Mc Graw Hill
Roberts, G. (2005, November). Instructional Technology That's Hip High-Tech. Computers in Libraries, 25(10), 26-28. Retrieved September 27, 2008, from Library, Information Science & Technology Abstracts database
Cloud, C., Gallagher, K., Gallagher, T., Harper, N., Huber, J., Neagle, R., et al. (2004, September). MULTIMEDIA REVIEWS. Media & Methods, 41(2), 33-37. Retrieved September 27, 2008, from Library, Information Science & Technology Abstracts database
Cromity, J. (2008, September). Web 2.0 Tools for Social and Professional Use. Online, 32(5), 30-33. Retrieved September 27, 2008, from Library, Information Science & Technology Abstracts database.
Don Bates
