Goal 1

Summary:

As I’ve progressed through my studies of instructional technology and design I’ve come a long way from only using Powerpoint to using many different media development programs. Message design, and interactive technology have all impacted and enhanced the learning opportunities my students have. Understanding how to use and implement them effectively is something I continue to work toward. This understanding not only benefits me, but also allows gives my students new ways to learn and express themselves. Developing these new skills in design has taken great effort at times, but once acquired I can use them as trusted tools to rely on. While learning new programs has been difficult it has been one of the most enjoyable and satisfying parts of my course work.

Reflection:

Developing and implementing media into the courses I teach is something I’ve always been passionate about. I set this goal to challenge myself to learn new skills, experience new technology, and to more fully understand the design process. In my ITEC 4340 course I had a wide variety of message design opportunities (see Instructional Visual). By using online software, I learned to create works that were pleasing to the eye and also informative. I even created a personal logo for myself (see Personal Logo). Creating things like this is enjoyable to me, but it takes more than creativity, it also requires following proper design principles. Who knew so much can be said by using a certain color as part of your design. I picked orange for my personal logo because it stands out and orange represents enthusiasm, fascination, happiness, creativity, determination, attraction, success, encouragement, and stimulation. Those are all things I want for my professional self. Acquiring these skills has allowed me to work with actual clients in developing a company logo (see KB Earthworks) and also creating social media products as part of their marketing strategy (see Client New Years Dream). It’s rewarding to see your work beyond the classroom.

These experiences now influence the design and the ways I choose to incorporate media into my seminary classes. The design courses I’ve worked in have helped me to examine teaching and learning strategies and identify technology that can be used within teaching, learning, and work-related environments (see WET Layout). Early in my career the driving motivation to use technology and media was simply providing variety for my students. I’ve now developed a consistent set of rationales for using technology and media in my teaching and interaction with co-workers and parents. It's important that I understand my audience, know the problem I'm solving, consider the time frame I'm working, delivery strategy, required learner training and to know how I will evaluate my success. One of my favorite interactive tools I’ve discovered is Vidyard. I utilize this technology to communicate with others. It allows me to add a more personal touch and to give effective feedback (see Vidyard). Experiencing things like this as a student has helped me see their value as a teacher.

Artifacts