Explore Instructional Design and Technology

What is Instructional Design and Technology?

Instructional design and technology (IDT) is the systematic process of designing and developing instruction. A key part of that process is evaluating the use of technology and how it fits into instruction. The IDT process involves:

- the analysis of learning and performance problems,

- using the instructional design process to design, develop, implement, and evaluate instructional materials and environments,

- and managing processes and resources intended to improve learning and performance in a variety of settings, particularly educational institutions and the workplace.

What do professionals in Instructional Design and Technology do?

Professionals in the field of instructional design and technology use the instructional design process to design, develop, and deliver learning products and experiences. Examples of learning products and experiences include eLearning/online courses, printed or multimedia tutorials, simulations, or mixed reality.

Common terms used in the IDT field are:

- instructional design

- instructional technology

- multimedia design

- user experience design

- learning experience design

- instructional systems design

- curriculum design

- educational technology

What can my studying of IDT do for me?

Not only could an IDT degree enhance your productive use of technology in the classroom or training facility, it could open up a whole new career for you! Graduates of the program work in public and private sector industries.

Those completing the MS in Instructional Design and Technology become instructional designers, directors of technology, learning specialists, corporate trainers, eLearning Specialists, multimedia developers, instructional technology resources teachers, digital media specialists, and courseware developers.

Since the IDT field is fairly young, new related jobs, job titles, and descriptions are evolving and being created.