Can I Specialize A Master’s in Education in Educational Technology?

For some, a passion for supporting learning, working with children, and working with technology can translate into looking to specialize a Master’s in Education in Educational Technology. This particular type of program enables people who have the ability to work with technological advances and developments to find ways to implement those tools into classrooms and support learning at all age and grade levels, from early childhood through higher education.

Master’s Degree in Education

The foundation of all graduate degrees in the field of learning and teaching is the master’s degree in education. The majority of programs with other concentrations or specialized areas include course work in this major area of study in addition to other courses to offer specialized knowledge and skill. To start, graduate students complete these foundation courses in order to gain an understanding of teaching, working with students, and other topics in education.

Courses that are likely to be completed include those for classroom management and working with students directly, as well as additional considerations in the functioning and operations of schools and districts. Courses typically include curriculum design, research for education, effective classroom learning environments, supporting self-direction, the teacher as a professional, topics in special needs, student learning assessment, and educator leadership.

Specialization in Educational Technology

After completing the graduate level core course work in an education degree, students specializing in educational technology then complete a number of courses within the concentration. Although course work is likely to vary by institution, common courses include educational technology classroom integration, media development in education, educational technology design, diverse leaners and instructional technologies, constructivist learning technology, and various seminars and practicum courses.

These concentrations can be further specialized in categories such as administration, design, and program integration. In administration, additional course work might also include school resource management, program evaluation, and technologies assessment. Design course work might also include design of online instructional materials, and interactive design for diverse learners. Integration specialty courses include communication and new technologies and theories of organizational communication.

Careers in Educational Technology

Any organization that works with students or develops learning materials is an option for graduate of an educational technology master’s degree program to consider. In schools, professionals can work as classroom teachers, media specialists, curriculum and course designers, or faculty support. In the military or government agencies, a professional in this field might consider positions as training materials designer or computer instructor. Educational materials and textbooks companies might employ graduates as curriculum developers or trainers. Businesses and other organizations might hire graduates as corporate trainers, multimedia writers, or learning and development directors. Additional information can be found at the International Society for Technology in Education website.

Related Resource: Master’s in Education in Mathematics

Whether looking to work in a school building, for a school district, with a government agency, or at a community or non-profit organization, the field of educational technology offers unique and rewarding opportunities to help all students and learners gain important skills through the use of technology. Choosing to specialize a Master’s in Education in educational Technology is the first step to beginning a career in this satisfying and gratifying area of education.