Educational technology involves the entire sequence of developing, evaluating, applying and improving the tools, processes and other materials that aid human learning. A Master’s in Education that focuses on the technological aspects is a career booster for forward-thinking educators who favor flexibility and innovation over traditional teaching techniques. This field of specialization includes managing basic and high technology options, as well as electronic instructional techniques or e-learning. Non-traditional instruction is presented using various media, including streaming videos, podcasts, CD-ROM or DVD formats and interactive digital classrooms. With various options at their disposal, students and educators no longer need to be in the same physical space to facilitate instruction. Additionally, technology-based learning provide for convenient access to the materials, expanding the usefulness of the instructional package. With a master’s in this field, you can expect diverse opportunities that may transcend classroom involvement.
Resource: Top 10 Best Online Master’s in Education Degree Programs (M.Ed.) 2016
Curriculum Developer for Traditional Schools
The drive to improve student learning with the use of technological aids has escalated in recent years. Tech-driven instructional materials have been proven to engage students much more than the traditional books and handouts. You will be tasked with reviewing existing curriculum materials and introducing innovative ways to elevate the materials to tech-age standards while ensuring that the content supports educational standards.
Internet-based Teacher for Virtual Schools
Virtual schools for elementary, middle and high schools have turned into viable alternatives for families who would rather homeschool their children without opting out of the system altogether. Today’s virtual schools have been integrated into the public school systems, so your job may require instruction and guidance, using an e-learning platform to interact with students and their parents. You will be working out of your own home and keeping regular hours to ensure that you are available for consultation. Some virtual schools also operate as private schools, and students in both public and private schools have the option of flexible scheduling, in which students take both online and classroom instruction.
Instructor for Post-secondary Courses
Colleges and universities consider online instruction as a valuable technique to reach more students especially those who are unable to attend traditional classrooms due to work and other restrictions. Post-secondary schools have started offering e-courses that may be completed entirely online that may or may not include an on-campus component. Your job will entail developing a curriculum suitable for online instruction, delivering the material through streaming video or live instruction in a digital classroom.
Industrial or Professional Trainer
Talent recruitment and retention are big issues for many companies. Providing appropriate training at strategic intervals is a viable method to keep employees engaged and committed to their work. With a Master’s in Education with a specialization in educational technology, you will be in a great position to transfer your classroom skills to the field of industrial training. Your functions may include content development, implementation and assessment with a special focus on adult learning in the workplace setting. The content you develop may reside on a human resources management platform for employees and managers to access at their convenience.
The skills and knowledge base you develop by pursuing a Master’s in Education are useful in the academic environment, but they are also easily transferable to the professional setting especially if your program specializes in educational technology. However, take note that technology is constantly changing. To ensure success in this field, you would have to commit to upgrading your skill sets as often as necessary, but you can expect many opportunities in diverse fields.
