Sunday, October 5, 2014



Section 6: Getting an IDT Position and Succeeding at It

This section of your textbook focuses on jobs in the profession of instructional design and technology: lessons and tips on how to get one and organizations that can support the job search and continued learning in the IDT field. Many of you already have a job in the field or in a related field; however, based on this week’s readings, you’ll reflect on where you are, where you want to go, and what you need to learn or do to get there. Begin your post for this week with some background: what is your current job, what program are you enrolled in, what brings you to that program, and what do you expect when you graduate (change jobs? obtain a promotion)

     I am very interested in the field of instructional design and to that end I am enrolled in the Master of Education Tech/Leadership program at TAMU-C.  I should have my degree by June, 2015.  I do understand that without experience in the field I will have to start in a minor position and work my way up.  I am earning my teacher certificate and will only need to do my internship in the spring of 2015.
I am not interested in classroom teaching but I do understand that I will need a teaching certificate to qualify for some Instructional Design jobs.
     I realize that most of the people in the programs that I am taking do wish to be classroom teachers and I don’t necessarily dislike the idea; it is just that I think I will fit into instructional design better.  I expect that relocation is possible and that the pay may not be very good at first.  Because I have planned for this new career choice, I have resources to carry me through for as long as it takes.

  Next, describe the kind of work that you want to do and the type of organization or institution in which you want to work. Use the WorkMatrix in the chapter titled “Getting a Job in Business and Industry” to help organize your thoughts. Do you most desire first, second, third, or fourth level service? Or would you rather design or develop instruction? What features of work are important to you? What economic sector do you want to work in? Based on these intentions, explain what you need to learn. What skills and qualifications do you need? Will you obtain the skills you need in the required courses in your program? What electives might you need to take to help you develop skills specific to your aspirations?

     My first choice would be designing and/or redesigning classes using technology as part of the learning experience.  I would be comfortable in any field that would hire me as an instructional designer.  I have an MBA and that may help me to get a job in business.  I cannot see how I would survive as a consultant before getting some work experience.  I have worked as a consultant in the computer field and I know that customers who are paying high fees are not patient with inexperienced consultants.  My personal business experience and recent education should get me into the door of some corporation. 

Finally, what organizations would best support your continued learning after you graduate? Do you think you would benefit from joining those organizations before graduating? Explain why or why not?

     Organizations like ATD (Association for Talent Development) that have continuing education and news about the industry would be my first choices.  I did join ATD when I looked it up today.  The site looks good and has the type of information that I am interested in.
     After graduating I may have a lot on my plate and would rather not be doing things that could have been taken care already.  I will be looking at other organizations that have blogs and employment opportunities listed.  I have had very good experiences with being a member of professional organizations in the past.

1 comment:

  1. Carl, man I ain't mad atcha for not wanting to be in the classroom teaching! Ha... LOL. I am just be serious. However, if you decide to change your mind just remember that there is a job within the classroom awaiting your leadership. I do like the idea regarding the instructional design element. My wife was a teacher for 13 years, obtained an MBA like yourself during her teacher role, and recently acquired a job as an instructional designer. Sounds a bit like your plan. Well, I can tell you ... she loves the new gig far more than teaching. The pay is about 7 g's more too. So you stand to make a little more than a teacher. Also, The ATD program/ organization would perhaps give you some insight on your personal goals within this field. Make sure you get with an organization that allows you to meet individuals who are deeply rooted within a given field such as the one you desire. Some organizations are no good and just want you to send them a little "change / cash" every now and again without ever offering any conventions or meetings.
    I think you are on a good road. Yes, acquire that teacher cert. so that you can take my place one day. Naaa, seriously get it because you may have a change of heart! At any rate, good luck to you man and make the best of what you decide to do.

    ReplyDelete