Dear Educational Technology Faculty,

Reflecting on my journey in the Master's in Educational Technology program, I am grateful for the transformative experiences shaping my professional aspirations. This program has broadened my understanding of the educational landscape and equipped me with the skills and insights necessary to pursue my goal of becoming an instructional designer in the corporate world.

Experience Before the Program:

Before enrolling in the Master’s in Educational Technology program, I spent five years as a classroom teacher, primarily in K-5 settings. During this time, I discovered my passion for using technology to enhance learning but often felt constrained by traditional teaching methods. For example, while implementing a project-based learning unit on ecosystems, I used interactive online simulations to engage my students in real-world scenarios. However, I recognized that my understanding of effective instructional design was limited. I often relied on existing materials rather than creating tailored resources utilizing the available technology. This realization motivated my decision to pursue a master’s degree, as I wanted to gain deeper insights into how technology could be strategically integrated into the learning process. Additionally, my experiences with students who struggled with traditional methods highlighted the need for more inclusive and flexible educational approaches. I was eager to transition from a solely instructional role to one where I could design and implement technology-enhanced learning experiences that address diverse learner needs.

Experience During the Program:

Throughout my journey in the Master’s in Educational Technology program, I encountered numerous opportunities for growth and exploration in instructional design. One of the most impactful experiences was developing my e-portfolio, which serves as a reflection of my learning and accomplishments. Within the e-portfolio, I included several key artifacts that demonstrate my evolving understanding of educational technology.

One significant artifact is my project on creating an interactive learning module using Articulate Storyline. This project allowed me to apply instructional design principles, incorporating multimedia elements to engage learners actively. I received positive feedback from my peers and instructors, reinforcing my confidence in creating effective educational resources.

Another vital artifact is my case study on inclusive technology for students with diverse learning needs. This study not only deepened my understanding of various tools and strategies but also emphasized the importance of accessibility in instructional design. It highlighted the need for tailored approaches that consider the unique requirements of each learner, a lesson I will carry forward in my future career.

Participating in collaborative group projects gave me invaluable insights into teamwork and diverse perspectives. For instance, working with classmates on a curriculum development project exposed me to different instructional strategies and approaches, ultimately enhancing my ability to create well-rounded and inclusive educational experiences.

The program also emphasized the importance of research and evidence-based practices. I explored various instructional design models, such as ADDIE and SAM, which equipped me with a robust framework for designing compelling learning experiences. Integrating these models into my coursework has fundamentally shaped my approach to instructional design, guiding me to focus on learner-centered strategies that foster engagement and success.

Overall, my experiences during the program have expanded my knowledge and instilled in me a strong desire to pursue a career in instructional design. I feel well-prepared to contribute to the corporate world, utilizing my skills to create innovative training programs that enhance employee learning and development.

Lessons Learned

Reflecting on my experiences before and during the Master’s program, I have gained valuable insights that I wish to share with others pursuing a similar path. One of the most significant lessons I learned is the importance of adaptability and continuous learning. In the rapidly evolving field of educational technology, staying current with trends and tools is essential. I advise anyone entering this field to remain open to new ideas and methodologies, embracing the concept of lifelong learning.

Another critical lesson is the value of collaboration. Working with peers in group projects and discussions allowed me to appreciate the diverse perspectives that each individual brings to the table. I learned that collaborating enriches the learning experience and fosters a supportive network that can lead to future opportunities. I encourage aspiring instructional designers to actively seek collaborations and engage in discussions with colleagues, as these interactions can provide fresh insights and inspire innovative solutions.

Furthermore, I discovered the significance of aligning technology with pedagogical strategies. In my case study on inclusive technology, I learned that merely incorporating technology into the classroom is not enough; it must be integrated thoughtfully to enhance learning outcomes. This realization has shaped my approach to instructional design, emphasizing the need for a careful balance between technology and pedagogy.

As I move forward in my career, I remind myself to focus on the end-user—whether students or employees—and prioritize their needs in every design decision I make. User-centered design will be at the forefront of my approach, ensuring that the learning experiences I create are engaging, effective, and accessible to all learners.

Future Goals and Vision:

Looking ahead, my primary goal is to transition from the classroom to the corporate world as an instructional designer. I aspire to leverage my expertise in educational technology to design and implement innovative training programs that enhance employee engagement and performance. My vision is to create learning experiences that impart knowledge and foster a culture of continuous improvement and adaptability within organizations.

I am passionate about developing inclusive training programs accommodating diverse learning styles and needs. In a corporate setting, it is crucial to recognize that employees come from varied backgrounds and possess different levels of familiarity with technology. By integrating personalized learning paths and offering multiple means of engagement, I aim to ensure that all employees have the opportunity to succeed.

Additionally, I envision myself contributing to developing a collaborative learning culture within organizations where employees feel empowered to share knowledge and support each other's growth. By fostering an environment that values innovation and inclusivity, I believe we can cultivate a workforce that is skilled and adaptable to the ever-changing demands of the corporate world.

In conclusion, I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and look forward to applying the knowledge and skills I have gained throughout the Master’s program to make a meaningful impact in the field of instructional design.

Sincerely,
Daniella De Leon