Job Description of an Instructional Technologist

Computers are increasingly being used in the classroom.

Technology advances at an almost dizzying pace, and many educational institutions are concerned about keeping up. As more pressure is placed on educators to incorporate more technology into the classroom, a type of instructional coordinator called an instructional technologist is often hired in order to act as a consultant.

Function

The instructional technologist works under an assigned administrator and helps faculty and staff at a university or school develop skills needed to use instructional technology. When new instructional technology comes out, instructional technologists perform demonstrations on the usage of this technology to faculty and then answer questions. They must be available for further questioning whenever needed, according to Maricopa Community College. Some schools also put instructional technologists in charge of promoting new technological services to students. Some are responsible for setting up new technology and troubleshoots whenever this technology is not functioning properly. Some faculty might consult with them in order to help develop lesson plans that incorporate technology.

Education

Instructional technologists often need a degree in a computer related field, with classes taken in instructional technology. However, some instructional technologists have practical job experience which makes them qualified for the instructional technologist position, according to Maricopa Community College. For accredited universities and public schools, the educational demands are usually higher, with instructional technologists needing a master's degree, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Skills

Instructional technologists must be willing to be lifelong learners and continually stay up-to-date with the latest technology, according to Maricopa Community College. They must also have excellent communication and interpersonal skills in order to effectively communicate challenging technological information to individuals with a variety of technological backgrounds, including administrators, faculty, committees and representatives. They are also required to collaborate with organizations that release instructional technology. Problem solving skills are needed for whenever a particular piece of technology fails.

Outlook

In 2008, 133,900 instructional coordinators held jobs, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Between 2008 and 2018, the need for instructional coordinators is expected to grow by 23 percent. As high school test scores fall, greater pressure will be placed on schools to implement technology with the hope of bringing these scores up. On the college level, instructional technologists will be needed in order to make universities more competitive. There is also a growing understanding of the importance of technological literacy among students.

Earnings

In 2008, the median earnings for instructional coordinators were $56,880, based on data collected by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The highest 10 percent earned more than $93,250, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $31,800.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Instructional Coordinator
• Maricopa Community College: Instructional Technologist