ID&T - Introduction

The Instructional Design and Technology(ID&T) program focuses on research and practice related to the systematic application of instructional principles through the use of technology. Instructional Design and Technology is oriented to the study of systematically designed instruction, technology, software, and non-print instructional materials. Graduates are competent in selecting, and designing materials, such as software, so that students learn more effectively and efficiently and so that teachers or learners can determine whether learning has occurred as intended. Another emphasis is the selection and design of delivery systems, such as computer-based instruction. Instructional Design

The Instructional Design and Technology curriculum is based on three core areas: Instructional Design, Technology Delivery Systems, and Communications Research. The technological delivery systems area include courses in traditional media, computer-based instruction, and related technologies. The instructional design component includes courses in systems and message design. The communications research component includes communication theory, innovation theory, and learning from mass media.

Each of these areas changes emphasis depending on the degree program. At the master's level, the communications research component centers around what research says about media and visual thinking theory and skills. At the doctoral level, the communications research area changes to an opportunity to study what research says about visual learning and diffusion of innovations. The instructional design focus at the master's level, is on completing instructional systems design steps under supervision. At the doctoral level, the focus is on leading an instructional design team. Technological delivery systems at the master's level concentrate on selection and utilization of traditional media and computer software. At the doctoral level, research and theory issues relevant to computer-based instruction are pursued. In addition, students consider the ramifications of technology for instruction.