As my time in the Franklin University IDPT program draws to a close, I want to reflect on my relationships and experiences. There were many highs and lows between my first course and this final portfolio presentation. In the end, I can truly say I have developed the skills necessary to go forward and represent my school very well as an Instructional Designer. If I look at the big picture, there are three things that I am very proud to have accomplished:
- Knowledge
- Confidence
- Teamwork
Every course in the IDPT program taught me something new. The tools and methods we used to evaluate performance and draft viable solutions will be invaluable as I perform similar tasks on the job. I have amassed a small library of IDPT textbooks which I will refer to often as an Instructional Designer. The safety and security those books provide along with the knowledge I have gained give me the confidence to present myself to potential employers as someone they will want on their team for years to come. My reference to being part of a team leads me to my third and final accomplishment in the IDPT program. Teamwork got me through several of the courses in the program. My cohort developed a strong bond which made us all better as individuals. We overcame obstacles and helped each other selflessly on several occasions. My accomplishments in the IDPT program exceeded my early expectations.
Throughout the curriculum, there were three projects that really allowed me to showcase my talents in a meaningful way:
- Ivy Tech
- Sutphen
- Boxleitner
I enjoy projects that allow me to apply what I have learned as an individual or as a member of a team. The capstone project was the most meaningful project for me because I was able to focus on the instructional design portion of the curriculum. I applied my skills where I work and produced tangible artifacts which were implemented into the training. I like creating evaluation tools and Criterion-referenced tests and this project allowed my efforts in the IDPT program to be validated.
The Sutphen Company project was important because it was an exercise in patience and overcoming obstacles as a team. Although we experienced several challenges, our team developed a great performance evaluation and plan for interventions that were delivered to the client. The client was appreciative of our work and indicated they would apply our suggested interventions. My role on this team was an opportunity to put some of my graphic design experience to work. I enjoyed the creative freedom and the chance to make our project look visibly pleasing for our team and client.
An important individual project was the Boxleitner assignment. Although each student was doing the same assignment, we all worked independently. When we would discuss the assignments each week, it allowed for everyone to see how others interpreted the steps of the process and learn from each other. Although there was clearly a “correct” outcome, I learned that there was more than one way to get to a single outcome. It also benefited me because I was able to understand the process of selecting the best evaluation method to use based on the situation.
In closing, the coursework in the IDPT program had a tremendous impact on me and the work I do. As a college instructor, I was guilty of using test generators when creating exams. These exams were not always well written and became a crutch for my busy work routine. I now possess the tools to write better tests and evaluation tools thanks to my IDPT coursework. Additionally, I feel that I can now take a better and more informed approach to solving performance issues. Lastly, my coursework has taught me how to structure learning modules more effectively using tools such as the ADDIE guidance. I feel that I am now a very strong candidate for an Instructional Designer position.
Laura A. Diggle 