About Instructional Technology

Instructional technology encompasses technologies, theories and models from a wide range of disciplines, such as computer science, media production, psychology, instructional design, and educational practice. Instructional technology is largely concerned with the application of electronic technology to the instructional environment and includes applications such as computer-based training, web-based learning, distance learning, and interactive multimedia.

Professionals in instructional technology work in a wide range of jobs, such as:

• Classroom teachers who model the effective use of technology
• Interactive multimedia developers
• Instructional designers
• Technology coordinators
• Technology coaches/staff development providers

Graduate Programs in Instructional Technology at WWU

There are two areas in instructional technology at WWU: one teaches you the skills associated with providing leadership in instructional technology in your classroom and /or school, the other teaches students the skills required to design and create web-based opportunities.

• Leadership in School Technology (LiST) provides students with a thorough understanding of how technology can be effectively planned for and used, particularly in school environments.
• Instructional Design and Web-based Learning (IDWL) provides students a thorough understanding of how to design web-based instruction.

Western Washington University offers four methods of obtaining either an emphasis or certificate in instructional technology:

• A Certificate in Community and Technical College Teaching at the graduate level.
• A Certificate in Leadership in School Technology (LiST) offered at the undergraduate or graduate level.
• A Masters of Education (M.Ed.) in Continuing and College Education with an emphasis in Community and Technical College Teaching.
• A Masters of Education (M.Ed.) in Educational Administration with an emphasis in Leadership in School Technology (LiST).

By choosing a M.Ed. program, which focuses on instructional technology, you will develop the skills that are required to effectively use or create instructional technology. A strong emphasis is placed on creating and using materials that are pedagogically sound.

After you choose the focus you want, you will develop an individualized program of study with your advisor. You will be co-advised by faculty in the Instructional Technology program area, and your specialization area.

Planning Your M.Ed. Program of Study

Your program of study is created jointly between you and your advisor. You must first apply to the program. Once admitted, you will meet with your advisor and develop a tentative plan that meets your interests and the program's requirements. During your second quarter, a formal Plan of Study is prepared and submitted for approval by the Dean of the WWU Graduate School.

As mentioned, there are two M.Ed. specializations from which you can choose: Continuing and College Education, or Educational Administration. Each of these specializations includes a set of required courses that will teach you the basic knowledge and skills associated with that area.

The M.Ed. typically requires 48 to 52 credit hours. Depending on your focus, you may be required to write a thesis, develop a field project, or write a seminar paper. Most graduate level courses are offered in the evenings, and some courses are offered in off-campus locations such as Everett and Seattle.

General Requirements for Graduate Admission

The WWU Graduate School grants admission with the concurrence of the department in which you will pursue graduate study. Specific admission requirements are available from the Graduate School. These requirements include the following:

• A baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution
• Two official transcripts from each college or university attended
• A 3.0 grade point average for the last 60 semester / 90 quarter credit hours
• Official scores from the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) or the Miller
  Analogies Test (MAT)
• Three letters of academic or professional reference
• Favorable review by the department faculty
• A statement of purpose

All materials must be submitted at the same time

For students who do not meet the minimum GPA or test scores, there is the possibility of a provisional admission. Check with the program advisor of the department where your M.Ed. will be based, and the Graduate School for details.

General Requirements for Undergraduate Admission

Anyone who is contemplating Western as their institution for undergraduate study, no-matter what degree they are seeking, are encouraged to participate in the Certificate in Instructional Design and Web-based Learning (IDWL) program. Interested students are encouraged to contact Western’s Admission department and the department of study they are interested in.

Additionally, students who already have a baccalaureate degree are also encouraged to involve themselves in the instructional technology certificate program and should contact: Tony Jongejan, Ph.D.

Planning a Certificate Program of Study

Undergraduate or graduate students interested in our certificate program must create a program of study jointly with an advisor from the Instructional Technology (IT) department. You must first contact the IT department. An appointment will be made for you to meet with an advisor and develop a tentative plan that meets your interests and the program's requirements. During your second quarter, a formal Plan of Study will be prepared.