Introduction To Design

Introduction To Design

Before starting the program, I was lucky because I have taught classes but also been an instructional designer. Years later, after I had been an instructional designer I taught religious education to 1^st and 5^th graders and for those classes I developed a lesson plan and a PowerPoint presentation. Since I enjoy online learning, and love creating classes (I created accounts payable and computer training, to name two). I have enjoyed these classes for the certificate and time is flying! I remember when I started, and a bit scared my experience would be a hindrance, but instead has been helpful. I must admit I have enjoyed the previous two classes more than the first two because these are more hands on, compared to reading about teaching. I have learned so much in this program, such as learning styles and probably the most important part of design I took was last semester, when I developed a lesson for my planned class. When I was previously in graduate school for Communications and Training I learned computer graphics and website design and that helped me. These classes for online teaching have shown us how to create classes, including assessments and activities, and how to build classes using sources like Google Sites. I built a portfolio and a website for the class I hope to teach and it is amazing seeing work I created. I keep updating both as the program advances and see a big difference. 

In terms of online classes, I was a trainer/instructional designer at Metra after receiving my first master's, and we developed using the ADDIE method (analyze, design, develop, implement, evaluate), we started by doing a needs analysis, work on the basic design, develop it, then implement it (was it online, or at Metra?) and finally we did a variety of evaluations (how did people learn?). Because not everyone was computer literate we developed both an online and traditional version and with both we wrote training manuals, lesson plans, and expected outcomes. In fact, we had to be very specific due to union rules and had to clearly write for a 5^th grade level. We developed objectives stating what the employee would learn, when they were expected to learn and how. I worked there three years and by the time I left, they were using the intranet, and platforms like YouTube to upload classes so employees could learn at home.  I keep up with my skills and learn new ones to make learning even more accessible to more people. I have no doubt this will help me be an even better worker.

Of course, a question to ask is “how has my experience helped me in these classes?” It has really put me at an advantage to understand class assignments better and help me in developing my ideas. I currently have several ideas for classes I want to consider and when designing them I now consider things in more detail such as learning styles and activities they can do to learn, such as podcasts. I do think the design aspect is interesting and probably the most important part is developing classes with different learning styles in mind. We did this at Metra because people have different abilities and we would create visual or audio, but technology is now more advanced, so it makes it easier to use platforms such as mobile phones. I also consider the rubric important when designing because it is essential to know what the expected outcome is.
         I am very excited to design a class, and look forward to designing lesson plans, and everything to create a great class. I have created possible lesson plans for my project and I enjoy doing this. The project I want to develop is an online religious education class. I previously taught in the class but so many people would be unable to attend due to work or the weather and this will remove obstacles, making it easier for more to receive Confirmation. I know that it will involve more work than my religious education teaching, including tests, activities and active learning but it will be enjoyable creating lessons that will allow more types of learners. I hope that this will increase those making their Confirmation, or just learning more about the Bible. After that, my outcome is to return to instructional design, with even more skills to show, and an updated portfolio to show employers!