The two primary goals for my master’s education are to improve the instructional design of my courses and collaborate with my institution on educational technology. This program offered me instructional technology (IT) leadership skills. As we know, technology has permeated every aspect of our academic work. Therefore, IT leadership is essential in our current education system from K-12 to higher ed institutions. A responsible and well-informed IT leadership is not a local effort; it is a global effort. This program also helps me refresh my knowledge of major learning theories and connect them to current instructional technology and design research. As an educator, it is vital to review learning theories, contributions, and drawbacks.

A significant impact on my instructional design is Mayer’s Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning. This cognitive theory profoundly impacts how we present and deliver teaching material through our visual and auditory channels. Another critical concept is Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK). TPACK has impacted ISTE, AECT, NCATE’s current standards, and the 21st Century Skills Map for World Languages. TPACK proposes that educators need to know about their teaching field, teaching methods, and technological knowledge.

Finally, it is imperative to address instructional technology issues and share our experiences in teaching online courses with our colleagues. Regardless of the professional development (PD) program type, there are competencies and models that educators should learn and apply. For instance, PD programs should address knowledge gaps, specifically on models and vital concepts (TPACK, COI, Multimedia Theory, SAMR, IT affordances and AECT standards). These competencies can offer a roadmap for the effective use of technology in our courses.

In conclusion, the expertise I have gained in this graduate program allows me to be an active educational technology participant in my institution and the community of practice. As an educator, I create, use, evaluate and constantly improve my teaching material and delivery.