Job Description of the Instructional Technology Specialist
The position of instructional technology specialist is a blend of a teacher and a technology specialist. There are a number of avenues someone who earns an instructional technology specialist certificate can take. The most common area for instructional technology specialists to pursue is in the education field.
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Duties
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An instructional technology specialist integrates technology into the classroom. This involves teaching students to use computers, developing technology curriculum and selecting technology-oriented learning tools for classrooms. Instructional technology specialists are also frequently asked to help with online publications or programs for schools where they work. They also must train teachers and administrators, as needed, in the classroom technology. At the college level, instructional technology specialists are sometimes responsible for monitoring the programs that deliver online courses.
Education
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All instructional technology specialists must have at least a four-year degree. The area of your degree does not always matter depending on your experience and/or whether you have a master's degree as well. Most instructional technology specialists pursue a master's degree and/or certificate. There are many programs available online to earn your master's degree and/or certificate. Many of the online programs offer training and courses in a variety of areas in order to prepare graduates to pursue jobs in a number of fields besides just education.
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Considerations
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Instructional technology specialist positions at K-12 public schools are very common. Many school districts require instructional technology specialists who work in public education to obtain a teaching license. In addition to a teaching license, many school districts require prior experience in the classroom or a degree in education. Anyone applying for a job as an instructional technology specialist at a school must also have knowledge of the curriculum, national standards and using technology in teaching.
Other Jobs
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There are a number of jobs as an instructional technology specialist outside the classroom. Educational software consultants work in the private sector and help districts put technology to use in the classroom. Training specialists also work outside the school but help administrators and teachers learn how to use the technology. A director of distance education develops an online school and helps students through education over the Internet. Corporate trainers generally work for an educational technology company. They travel to different school districts around the country to promote and teach their company's technology.
Salary
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The salary for instructional technology specialists varies depending on the area you work. Specialists who work in the corporate world, outside of public education, can expect to make far more than those who work in public education. Specialists who choose to work directly in the classroom or school make less, but still can expect to make more than the average teacher. According to PayScale.com, the average pay for a teacher in March 2010 ranged from $40,311 for an elementary teacher to $42,941 for a high school teacher.
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References
- DegreeDirectory.org: What Does an Instructional Technology Specialist Do?
- Guilford County Schools Job Description: Specialist: Instructional Technology
- Irving Independent School District: ITS Job Description
- Saint Joseph's University: 10 High Paying Careers for Instructional Technology Specialists
- payscale.com: All K-12 Teachers
- Photo Credit business computer desktop office image by scalesy from Fotolia.com
