Professional Development Statement

 Currently, I am in the process of developing my professional portfolio, which serves as a comprehensive showcase of my work and accomplishments throughout my studies and professional experiences. This portfolio includes a variety of projects and activities that highlight my expertise in instructional design, as well as my commitment to continuous professional growth, skill acquisition and entrepreneurship. By developing this portfolio, I aim to provide a clear and cohesive narrative of my skills, achievements, and goals, while also positioning myself for future opportunities in the field of instructional design and educational technology. 

Looking ahead, I plan to continue my academic journey by pursuing advanced degrees in instructional design and related fields. I am particularly interested in exploring the intersections of instructional design, technology, and learning theory to further enhance my knowledge and skills. These advanced studies will allow me to specialize in areas such as learning analytics, online education, and the development of interactive and immersive learning experiences. My long-term career goal is to teach back at various reputable institutions of learning, health and government where I can share my expertise and experience with future instructional designers, contribute to research, and influence the development of cutting-edge instructional practices and policies.

In addition to teaching, I aspire to continue working on innovative projects that leverage technology to solve complex educational challenges for out of reach students struggling with accessibility. I am passionate about exploring the potential of artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and other emerging technologies in the field of education. These technologies have the capacity to transform the way we teach and learn, and I am eager to be at the forefront of that transformation.

In conclusion, my experience in instructional design and educational technology has been highly rewarding. The TAMUCC IDET program stands out as an excellent choice for aspiring designers. The instructors are knowledgeable, and the course structure is well-organized. With a solid foundation in instructional design and a passion for integrating technology in education, I’m eager to continue expanding my expertise. Through further education and teaching, I aim to inspire and mentor future instructional designers, leaving a lasting impact on education.

 One of the key courses I completed was IDET 5302, which focused on the integration of computing applications in education. This course laid a foundational understanding of Google Workspace and its application in educational settings. It was here that I earned my first Google certification, marking an important milestone in my professional development. The course also emphasized the ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education) standards for coaches, change agents, role models, and collaborators. I learned how to set professional learning goals, apply pedagogical approaches, and utilize technology effectively in various educational contexts. This course underscored the importance of staying updated with technological advancements and applying them to improve the learning experience for all stakeholders involved. 

 In IDET 5304, I focused on collaboration and project management, which are critical skills in instructional design and educational technology. The course was designed to improve teamwork and time management, two essential skills for working in the dynamic field of education. As part of this course, I was assigned to the “Island Design” team, where we developed a training program aimed at helping users maximize their use of Microsoft Outlook Calendar. The goal was to streamline meeting schedules and promote greater collaboration within teams. To achieve this, we applied the ADDIE model—Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation—throughout the project. Additionally, we used Canva for the design and presentation of our materials. This project not only provided hands-on experience in instructional design but also highlighted the importance of clear communication and collaboration in creating effective training programs.  

 Another significant course I completed was IDET 5310: Creative Confidence in Instructional Design. This course broadened my understanding of instructional design by emphasizing its connection to storytelling. Through the course, I learned that effective instructional design requires not just technical skills but also creativity and problem-solving. The course highlighted the importance of asking key questions to identify challenges and developing tailored solutions to address them. Additionally, the course underscored the significance of project-based learning as a strategy to enhance retention and learning outcomes. I gained valuable insight into how instructional design could be applied in a variety of learning environments to foster deeper engagement and knowledge retention. This experience instilled in me the importance of creative thinking and adaptability in the field of instructional design 

 IDET 5320 focused on the application of instructional feedback and performance analysis in educational settings. This course taught me the importance of continually assessing instructional models and making modifications when they fail to deliver the desired outcomes. Rather than abandoning instructional strategies, the course emphasized the value of refining and adjusting models to ensure effectiveness. A key concept I learned was the use of scaffolding, a method that breaks down learning into manageable chunks, making it easier for learners to absorb and retain information. Additionally, the course introduced the ARCS model—Attention, Relevance, Confidence, and Satisfaction—framework for sustaining learner motivation throughout the learning process. I gained a deeper understanding of how to collect feedback and use it to refine instructional materials and delivery methods, ensuring optimal learning outcomes.