Section 6: Getting an IDT Position and Succeeding at It

This section of your textbook focuses on jobs in the profession of instructional design and technology: lessons and tips on how to get one and organizations that can support the job search and continued learning in the IDT field. Many of you already have a job in the field or in a related field; however, based on this week’s readings, you’ll reflect on where you are, where you want to go, and what you need to learn or do to get there.

I am currently the coordinator of Career and Technical Education. This is my 13th year in the CTE arena. I was a former CTE teacher.  I am enrolled in the Educational Technology Leadership program at TAMC. My reasoning for joining the program is to give myself opportunities down the road possibly in the educational technology field. My long-term goal is to work towards a Director of Career and Technical Education position for a school district or similar position at district office. I do not have any immediate plans when I graduate, but I have started the process of looking for the perfect opportunity in case it presents itself.

It is important that I continue to learn more about the IDT process so that I can be in a position to make the big decisions required of a Director of CTE.  Being a CTE director requires the director to make large technology purchases using local and Perkins funds. Also the job is to support the CTE teachers to use technology with best practices. To get to that level of understanding, I need more experience supporting teachers and districts in the use of technology. My hope is to continue working with teachers at the district level (or broader) to be more effective in using technology to enhance learning. I speak often about the importance of relationships in success and I know I need to continue to grow in my ability to build those relationships with colleagues. To do this I hope to learn more about motivation, support and human performance technology.

What organizations would best support your continued learning after you graduate? Do you think you would benefit from joining those organizations before graduating? 

Currently I am a member of ISTE and TCEA. I believe these organizations are important to my continued growth in the field. However, it takes more than just being a member of these organizations to get the full benefit they offer. It is important to also read their publications, attend the conferences and submit proposals to present. The main benefit I see from these organizations is the network of professionals I have had the privilege of connecting with. These connections will be valuable as I move into new positions in the future. I know the network that I have created will continue to provide value as I move forward.