Contextualization (n): ​the process of considering something in relation to the situation in which it happens or exists

A challenge I have faced in every class during my master’s program is identifying and applying work to my professional context. I am a teacher by training but working towards becoming a designer of online learning experiences, an instructional designer. There were more than a few times during the last year when practical application of concepts did not apply to me because I had no professional context. Therefore, my future goals are geared towards preparing myself for my new professional context so that I can apply what I have learned in the program. My goals are to:

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1. completely familiarize myself with Universal Design for Learning (UDL), adult learning theories,

    and design thinking frameworks that are currently most used in instructional design.

2. learn eLearning authoring software and tools.

3. solidify my professional presence.

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Goal #1

My first goal is to completely familiarize myself with Universal Design for Learning (UDL), adult learning theories, and design thinking frameworks that are currently most used in instructional design. When I browse on employment websites or the career page of a company’s website, I see that employers in this field want potential candidates to have a combination of practical skills and theoretical knowledge. What I do as an instructional designer needs to be backed with proven research and knowledge. 

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The Masters of Arts in Educational Technology (MAET) program does an excellent job of introducing various concepts such as the Stanford model for design thinking and Universal Design for Learning (UDL). However, I know that I must be well versed in more than just a few theories and frameworks. This resource by 360learning and this journal are excellent overviews of learning theories. This journal discusses learning theories in terms of what adults need in online and blended learning which is something that instructional designers should be well-informed in. This resource written by Digital Promise is specifically on how to apply adult learning theories when designing technology for adult learners. 

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As for designing thinking, this article provides a quick overview of 10 design thinking frameworks. One design thinking model that I saw frequently on job postings was ADDIE. This video by Devlin Peck, a leader in the eLearning industry, breaks down the ADDIE acronym and explains each part of this instructional design process. 

 

Goal #2

My second goal is to learn eLearning authoring software and tools. I have noticed that each company looks for candidates who are proficient in different programs and tools, making it difficult for me to identify and learn a simple blanket set of skills. Due to this variability, I plan to learn the following authoring software: Articulate Rise, Articulate Storyline 360 and Adobe Captivate. I have joined several instructional design groups on social media that have been incredibly helpful in gathering information about the latest trends and skills that are really needed in the field. Many designers recommended learning Articulate Rise first as it is more beginner friendly due to its template-based style. It is used frequently to design material for corporate training and development. Articulate 360 and Adobe Captivate are two others that are relevant in this industry that many employers look for in skillsets. Learning these softwares requires a financial investment which I am committed to making. However, I will be looking to the free resources and content such as those by Devlin Peck and IDOL courses as well. 

 

In the case of higher education, institutions require solid knowledge of learning management systems (LMS) and proficiency in the specific LMS the institution uses. It is more challenging to learn an entire LMS, but resources such as this by Linkedin can be helpful in building the foundational knowledge.  

 

Goal #3

My third and final goal is to solidify my professional presence. I have already begun by creating a Linkedin profile and building this website which I will continue adding to by creating a portfolio to showcase by design work. These two articles by Harvard Business Review and Indeed are informative and help me create a plan for designing a portfolio. The following are detailed how-to videos that explain the portfolio-building process in a visual way: 

How to Build Your Own eLearning Portfolio Sample Projects

How to Build Your eLearning & Instructional Design Portfolio in Google Sites | How-To Workshop

How to create an Instructional Designer portfolio with Google Sites

 

I also plan to redesign my resume with professional help. A resume is the first impression; an effective resume will create the opportunity to make a second impression which is what counts. 

 

Definition from Oxford Learners Dictionaries