What is technology? What does an “instructional designer” do? How would you explain to your friends, work associates, or mother-in-law what it is that you are learning and what you will be able to do with your future degree?

After reading chapter one I have a somewhat of an understanding what an instructional design is. I would like to compare it to designing a kitchen (which I am currently also doing). In order to design a well functioning kitchen I must think of many things - functionality, cost, aesthetics, time. I cannot just go to Ikea or Home Depot and buy things that will not match and go together. Instructional designer does the same thing when planning a curriculum for example. Instead of just piling together several lesson plans, instructional designer has a vision in mind how it will all come together. They start with end in mind. What do we want to accomplish?

I had to read Understanding By Design book for one of my classes when I was finishing my teaching credentials. Honestly, I did not get it. I liked the idea and thought behind it but I did not understand how I, as a teacher, was going to use it in my classroom. This was 3 years ago. I am so excited to pick up this book again and give it a second try. Someone mentioned in class that as a beginning teacher you focus so much on just getting the curriculum done and managing the classroom. You never have time to really plan thoughtful units. I completely agree. After teaching for 3 years I finally feel that I can do it. Hopefully.

One of the key words to me from chapter 1 was SYSTEMATIC. When I think of instructional designer, I think of someone who plans everything very systematically. There is a process which they follow (ADDIE) and they must be willing to go back at any given time if something does not work.

These where my first thoughts about instructional design. I think once we get going with our ADDIE project I will have more to add from more hands on perspective.