Backward Design
With a partner, created a project for 7th grade students to complete a resume, having no previous experience using templates. I learned the importance of looking at the desired results of instruction before delving into the design, as well as working as a team, relying on each others' strengths to design effective instruction.
ADDIE
For a short workshop on the online uses of PowerPoint 2007, I used the ADDIE model of instructional design. I learned that attention to detail prior to actual creation of course materials is of key importance, as is the need to understand my audience and what they need to know versus what they already know.
Needs Assessment
Performed a needs assessment of my school’s Keyboarding program to determine if the course is indeed still necessary. I learned about the legalities of surveying students and using their information in studies. I also learned how to look at facts regardless of my own personal opinions, and how to back up those facts with reliable resources.
Online Instruction & Usability Testing
Created online instruction for the Document Processing portion of my 9th Grade Word Processing Basics class. I learned that students respond well to alternate delivery methods even in a traditional classroom, and found new free resources for my technology-related classes. I also learned that usability testing is an essential part of good instructional design.
Research
Research paper on the Cognitive Load Theory and Worked examples. Research is an important part of any instructional design, and through this program I have learned how to effectively find the information that I need.
Creative Project
My final project taught me the cumulative value of all I have learned while attaining my Educational Technology masters degree. Properly analyzing my audience, knowledge of current technology trends, detailed instructional design, clear delivery methods and relevant editing after feedback is received from my audience are all part of who I am as a designer.