Information on Master of Education (M.Ed.) Degree Program in Instructional Technology
Majors Overview August 2, 2015This article talks about Master of Education (M.Ed.) degree programs in Instructional Technology and their educational requirements, coursework, career choices, job and wage outlook, and continuing education choices.
Master of Education (M.Ed.) Programs in Instructional Technology
Educators interested in learning various ways of incorporating technology into a classroom setting will benefit from enrolling into a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Instructional Technology program. These two-year programs teach students the practical and theoretical aspects of educational models, analysis, and design. Some programs offer specialization tracks in areas such as instructional design or multimedia development. Students have to pass a final examination and/or complete a thesis project before they graduate out of the program. Some programs may also offer online study options.
Educational Requirements
Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a relevant bachelor’s degree, in addition to submitting Graduate Record Examination scores. Current teachers and educational professionals are among those most likely to benefit from instructional technology programs.
Coursework
Computers and technology find usage in the field of education via instructional technology. Coursework is devised to develop leadership skills in educational professionals and to implement technology as a teaching and learning method. Learning experiences serve to help students discover educational practices, media production, computer sciences or instructional design. Students get training in technological products and systems, in addition to the implementation of technology in the curriculum. Individuals gain familiarity with particular programs, such as Adobe Flash. Students can expect to become adept at creating, using, adapting and implementing technological materials. Core coursework may cover topic areas such as:
•Digital terminology
•Technology issues
•Inquiry methodologies
•Interactive media
•Web design
•Distance learning
•Graphics
•Curriculum development
•Programming
Career Choices
Program graduates may seek career advancement in education. They may choose from possible job positions such as:
•Technology Coordinator
•Staff development provider
•Multimedia Developer
•Teacher
•Instructional Designer
Job and Wage Outlook
Over the 2012 – 2022 decade, a job growth rate of 13% has been predicted for instructional coordinators (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). In May 2012, these coordinators brought in an average annual wage of $60,050.
Continuing Education Choices
Program graduates may seek continuing education by pursuing a doctorate program in an educational field. Through the program, they can expect to become an expert in research, as well as in developing and implementing an educational area that could lead to leadership roles in corporations or colleges.