The educational technology leadership field offers a wide range of options for pursuing a career. You can opt for a bachelor’s or master’s degree or a doctorate, depending on your circumstances and interests. Some colleges also offer concentrations in different areas, such as instructional design, instructional technology, and information literacy.
Master’s Degree
Whether you are a technology professional looking to expand your knowledge in the field or a current leader, a masters educational technology leadership can help you advance your career. Throughout the program, you will be trained to use the latest educational technologies to improve your students’ learning experience.
Depending on your interests, you can choose from some concentrations, such as instructional design, adult education, online learning, and K-12 education. In addition, if you are a certified teacher, you can earn an endorsement for your teaching license.
A master’s degree in educational technology also provides an opportunity to pursue a doctoral degree. The program is designed to prepare graduates for various jobs, including technology specialist, information professional, director of online learning, and instructional services.
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)
Educators seeking advanced positions in instructional technology may pursue an Ed.D. This degree focuses on research and practice in educational technology. It provides a foundation of knowledge and skills to lead and facilitate technology innovation in K-12 classrooms.
Graduates with a doctorate in education are qualified to work in various capacities in education, including curriculum development, research, and senior leadership positions in the private and public sectors. They can also serve in roles in non-profit education advocacy organizations and research universities.
A doctoral program in instructional and performance technology focuses on the role of technology in improving performance and workplace learning across sectors. It also prepares students for leadership roles in technology and instructional design. It is designed for professionals who want to apply their expertise to improve their performance and those of others.
Graduates in this program learn to apply principles of instructional theories to develop and implement programs in K-12 classrooms and other professional settings. They will also learn to solve organizational problems using research-based methods and technologies.
Concentrations
Whether you are working in a private or public setting, the demand for educational technology leadership continues to grow. This is especially true in K-12 schools. Leaders are responsible for ensuring that teachers are equipped with the tools and resources they need to provide students with quality instruction.
In addition to implementing the curriculum, technology also plays a significant role in students’ lives. Students use technology to engage in inquiry and collaboration. Educators use technology to support student voices and help them develop digital citizenship skills.
The Master of Education with a concentration in educational technology is a blended program that offers practical applications and theoretical studies. It prepares individuals to assume leadership roles in enhancing teaching and learning. The program includes evaluation of instructional technology, policy-making, software and hardware systems, implementation plans, and higher education administration.
Graduates of the program are prepared to teach online, work as instructional technologists, or apply their knowledge to other roles. They also are employed in corporate training, government, non-profit, and other settings.
Career Options
Educators and technology leaders are in demand as more organizations recognize the value of educational technology. These positions can be found in schools, K-12 school systems, private corporate companies, or non-profit organizations. Choosing an educational technology major can help you land an excellent position.
Students pursuing a master’s degree in educational technology will learn how to create a curriculum, assess and evaluate tech-based projects, and implement new learning styles. They will also have skills to help with distance learning.
Students with a master’s degree in educational technology leadership are well-suited to positions in various settings, including colleges and universities, corporations, and schools. These positions require a strong knowledge of best practices, industry standards, and online learning platforms. They should also have a broad knowledge of computer networks, web development, and coding.
Instructional coordinators work with teachers to design and facilitate their use of technology in classrooms. They are often responsible for researching the latest trends and transferring information to teachers.
