My third semester in the Learning Technologies Masters program at UNT is off to an exciting start. I am in the second half of Instructional Systems design and already putting my knowledge of the ADDIE method to good use. Each time I follow these five steps to create and test instruction, I find that there are pieces I really enjoy and feel strong with, and others that are important steps, but not my favorite. Teamwork has allowed me to better determine what steps and tasks fall into which category.
LTEC 5211, or Instructional Systems Design II, includes teamwork for two major projects. Project A involves completing the first two steps of the ADDIE method (Analysis & Design). This is the first time I have worked with a group to complete assignments for this program, and I have to say I really enjoyed being able to share the work load. Additionally, I realized how much I enjoy the Analysis phase of ADDIE and using it to develop goals and objectives.
In our team meetings so far we have discussed our skills and strengths and where we feel like we can have the best impact on our shared project. Talking this out with my ID peers was helpful because they all enjoy different aspects of the process and their insights shifted the ways I felt about some of my least favorite aspects of the ADDIE method. It also made me realize why I enjoy analysis and design so much.
I enjoy hearing people out, especially helping them work through a problem or issue. Analysis allows IDs to connect with people, organizations, or systems in need and help them find a learning solution. When this process is done right (and throughly) IDs can use the data to develop goals and objectives to support learning that will correct the problem or issue, or even just fill a need. Week 3 has affirmed this realization for me by challenging me to use data to design a learning experience about (of all things) boxes. Just, boxes. I still really enjoyed myself! The process felt natural and I felt like I was serving a valuable need for my group and this project.
I’m grateful for the opportunities to apply the ADDIE method in preparation for my career and also glad to begin practicing collaborative group work to complete professional projects. I feel like I have taken two important professional steps these last few weeks by identifying some of my skills as an ID and supporting group completion of a common goal.
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