LDT501.M3. Competencies Assignment

 

Competencies in Learning/Instructional Design Technology Reflection

Timothy Copley

The International Board of Standards for Training, Performance, and Instruction (IBSTPI) instructional design competencies list includes skills such as analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation. These skills align with the role of instructional design in just about any setting, as they are the core steps to creating effective and efficient learning.

In terms of overlap and disparity, the IBSTPI competencies list focuses on the technical aspects of instructional design, such as analyzing data and using technology to enhance that learning. However, the IBSTPI competency does not specifically mention empathy or  diverse learner needs. Which is something I'm specifically interested in.  Teaching non-traditional students.  Students that have been in the workplace and are going back for their degree or are pursuing a degree in their field after they have found out that it's key to their future advancement or promotion.

As a Network Field Engineer / instructional design consultant working from home,  I have found a number of remote skills are essential for success. These skills include strong communication, time management, and self-motivation. These skills are critical for all remote workers and as a Network Field Engineer / consultant as they allow for effective collaboration with customers, clients and team members.  They help ensure that projects are completed on time and to a high standard.

There is also a significant overlap between remote work with these skills and those related to Network Field Engineering / instructional design consultant.   These technical skills are necessary for understanding and resolving issues related to networks, and for designing and implementing new network architecture and solutions. However, while technical skills are important, they are not the only skills required for success as a Network Field Engineer /  consultant.

In terms of my own skill sets, I am starting to improve in the analysis and development of instructional materials. I am also trying to become more comfortable with the use of technology in instruction. However, I recognize that my skills in teaching and designing  learning experiences could be stronger. To improve in this area, I am  pursuing further education and training through this masters course, and actively seeking out opportunities to work with diverse learners.

In addition to technical skills, there may be a disparity in skills related to collaborating with remote teams and working in a virtual environment. Remote Network engineers and Instructional Design Consultants must be able to work effectively in a virtual environment, and must be able to collaborate with team members and clients who may be located in different parts of the world. This requires a different set of skills, such as the ability to use virtual collaboration tools, and the ability to effectively communicate and coordinate with remote teams.

I have found that staying current with new technologies and best practices in Network Field Engineering and Instructional design through attending conferences, workshops, and engaging with professional development opportunities have worked well for me in pursuit of skills. However, I find that the most challenging skill for me is the evaluation of instruction, because it requires me to have a deep understanding of the specific learning objectives and the ability to measure the effectiveness of instruction. That's primarily the reason I'm taking the course.

To add to this list of skills, it would be beneficial for a Network Field Engineers Instructional Design consultant to develop competencies in project management, virtual collaboration tools, and remote team coordination. Project management skills are critical for ensuring that projects are completed on time and within budget. Virtual collaboration tools, such as video conferencing and instant messaging, are essential for communicating with remote team members and clients. And remote team coordination skills are necessary for effectively managing remote teams and ensuring that all team members are working together towards a common goal.

Reflecting on my commitment and capacity to design learning for non-traditional students, to meet diverse learner needs, I believe that my ability to understand and meet the needs of the learner is important. In my pursuit of the skills I have, I have found that understanding the learners' needs and providing them with the right resources and support has been very effective in helping them achieve their goals.

In conclusion, as a Network Field Engineer or Consultant in Instructional Design requires a combination of technical skills, project management skills, virtual collaboration tools, and remote team coordination skills that are essential for success. By focusing on developing these skills, and by continuously seeking out new learning opportunities, remote work can be successful in this increasingly common work setting.  This masters program can assist me in my pursuit of these skills by providing opportunities for professional development, networking with other instructional designers, and access to resources and experts in the field.

References:

Design for Learning Principles, Processes, and Praxis Jason K. McDonald & Richard E. West

Foundations of Learning and Instructional Design Technology Historical Roots and Current Trends Richard E. West

International Board of Standards for Training, Performance, and Instruction (IBSTPI) instructional design competencies  2012_ibstpi_Instructional_Design_Competencies.pdf