OVERVIEW
What is an Instructional Technology Specialist?
Also known as educational technology specialists, instructional technology specialists are well versed in technology and skilled in teaching. A primary part of their job is to connect students and educators with the right digital resources so that they have better learning experiences. These resources might involve learning management software like Canvas and Blackboard Learn, gamification, digital field trips, tablets, and more.
Instructional technology specialists are constantly on the lookout for the latest tech tools that can support educational success. While they may spend time assisting students in group or one-on-one settings, instructional technology specialists primarily train teachers, school administrators, and managers on how to use technology in the learning process. Edtech specialists can work as consultants or be hired for a full-time role.
An instructional technology specialist can work virtually anywhere learning happens, including elementary, middle, and secondary schools; colleges and universities; government agencies; or corporations.
RESPONSIBILITIES
What Does an Instructional Technologist Specialist Do?
Instructional technology specialists research, implement, and maintain educational technology for all types of learning settings. They often work alongside school administrators and instructional coordinators in curriculum design to introduce new technologies for classroom and workplace instruction—or to tweak existing ones.
The day-to-day tasks of an instructional technology specialist might include the following:
- Developing computer training materials and teaching educators on how to set up and use computer applications and technologies.
- Gathering and evaluating information about the effectiveness of computer programs.
- Identifying new hardware and software that could benefit specific learning environments.
- Troubleshooting issues with hardware or software applications.
- Supporting the use of computers in classrooms.
- Acting as a liaison between local, state, and federal agencies.
- Auditing current instructional technology to find opportunities for improvement.
- Communicating with school or workplace representatives about the benefits of specific technologies over others.
- Collaborating with relevant IT teams.
- Updating platforms and devices to meet changing student and educator needs.
EDUCATION & BEST DEGREES
How Do I Become an Instructional Technologist Specialist?
As you prepare to become an instructional technology specialist, consider these steps:
- Earn an undergraduate degree. To get started on this career path, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree. Many instructional technology specialists hold a bachelor’s in education, computer science, information technology, or a related subject.
- Earn a master’s degree in an educational field. A master's degree in education technology and instructional design can be a good option for aspiring instructional technology specialists. This instructional technology degree is designed to deepen your knowledge of fields like design analysis, research foundations, measurement and evaluation, and literature review.
- Gain work experience. Many employers prioritize applicants with at least a few years of experience in an academic or business setting, preferably where they had technology-related responsibilities.
- Check with your state about licensure and certifications. Depending on where you work, you may need to meet your state’s certification requirements for instructional technology specialists. For instance, your state might require you to pass a test to become licensed or to earn an instructional technology specialist certificate.
- Apply for jobs. Once you have attained all the necessary education and skills, the next step is to start applying for open instructional technology or educational specialist jobs at schools, private companies, government institutions, or other organizations.
Best Degrees for Instructional Technology Specialists
Education
Education Technology and Instructional Design – M.Ed.
The M.Ed. in Education Technology and Instructional Design from WGU is for...
The M.Ed. in Education Technology and Instructional Design from WGU is for instructional designers tasked with creating engaging and immersive virtual learning experiences that can substitute for on-ground instruction.
No teaching license required.
- Time: 62% of students finish this program in 10 months.
- Tuition: $3,975 per 6-month term
- Courses: 12 total courses in this program.
This program includes two tracks for students to choose from:
- The K-12 pathway
- The Adult Learner pathway
Skills for your résumé included in this program:
- Learning Experience Design
- Assessment and Learning Analytics
- Learning Technology
- Research Methodology
Develop training and instruction expertise to help you in the classroom, in educational settings, or in corporate world.
How Much Does an Instructional Technology Specialist Make?
$66,490
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary in May 2022 for instructional coordinators was $66,490. The lowest 10% earned less than $42,000, while the highest 10% earned more than $105,210.
What Is the Job Outlook?
2%
The BLS states that employment of instructional coordinators is projected to grow by 2% from 2022 to 2032, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. Around 19,200 openings for instructional coordinators are projected each year on average over the decade.
SKILLS
What Skills Does an Instructional Technology Specialist Need?
To excel as an instructional technology specialist, you need to develop a range of hard and soft skills, including the following:
- Technological proficiency: You should understand how the hardware and software commonly used in educational settings functions
- Good communication: To effectively teach students, educators, and staff how to use various forms of technology, you need to be able to explain these concepts clearly. You should also be willing to collaborate with others and lead discussions as needed.
- Creative problem-solving: When troubleshooting technological problems or training others on how to use a form of instructional technology, thinking creatively can help you solve problems and work around roadblocks.
- Organization: You must be highly organized to manage the complexities of different instructional technologies across many users in an educational system like a school.
- Research: Strong research skills are necessary to keep up with educational trends and innovations. These skills can help you determine which technologies will best meet a learner’s needs.
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