Instructional Technology Job Listing

After much investigating, I found a job of some interest to me. I know we were only ask to find a job title to describe-not necessarily one we would apply for; but I figured if I was going to take the time to write about it—I want it to be interesting! So here it is…

The job is for a full-time Distance Learning Instructor (in the category of training/instructing). It is offered through Blackbaud Professional Services Educational Services department and they prefer that you have a four year degree. (I for one had never heard of Blackbaud—thankfully they help clear that up) According to the posting, “Blackbaud, the world's leading provider of software and services to nonprofits.” The job listing later elaborates on Blackbaud by stating “Blackbaud is the leading global provider of software and services designed specifically for nonprofit organizations, enabling them to improve operational efficiency, build strong relationships, and raise more money to support their missions.” Who can argue with that! They are looking to hire someone to deliver software training to their nonprofit clients. The training can be done in your home office via a virtual classroom. Some of the other responsibilities listed were:

“-Conducting training courses either at regional classroom sites throughout the US and Canada, or at individual customer sites throughout the US and Canada

-Serving as Subject Matter Expert for courseware design and development”

In addition to wanting someone who is enthusiastic, energetic, and comfortable speaking in public, they also require that you have some experience delivering online/distance learning training, experience working remotely, and knowledge of Blackbaud’s products (listed as “a plus”). They do say in the ad that the person hired will complete 4 weeks of training. I would assume this would teach you about the specific software.

The salary is listed as “open” and the job is based out of Charleston, SC

https://blackboard.ecu.edu/webapps/portal/frameset.jsp?tab_id=_2_1&url=%2Fwebapps%2Fblackboard%2Fexecute%2Flauncher%3Ftype%3DCourse%26id%3D_102505_1%26url%3D

Now, would I apply for this job once I have received my Instructional technology degree? I would definitely consider it (although it would require some additional training for me). One of the things drawing me to this job is that you can work at home. This is appealing to me since I hope to start a family in the next few years. Being able to work from home would allow me some flexibility in my schedule and save me money on childcare. I also like that I would be helping nonprofit organizations in a number of ways, especially by helping them raise more money! The drawback for me is that I enjoy interaction with people, especially kids and this job doesn’t appear to offer that. I would definitely have to weigh the pros and cons of the title before making my decision.

I have to admit, I was questioning my program choice after reading dozens of job listings and not seeing many that interested me. Thanks, Emily, for your job finding of a position as an education consultant. The job description you found is much more aligned with my reasons for getting into this program, and the type of job I would eventually like to have.

What does Instructional Technology mean?

I feel that the word technology is a very broad concept that can describe anything from a mechanical pencil to a robot (In other words—it is hard to define.). I would like to think that technology has been used in instruction since it has been available-but I know depending on the resources available that may not be the case. That being said, I believe that the term Instructional Technology describes people using some form of tools, programs, or instruments to educate or train others.
Some examples of Instructional Technology would be the use of a Smartboard in a classroom or presentation. Smartboards can be used in so many ways. For instance, they can be used as a means to lecture from, to show video clips on, or to utilize the internet. They can also be used interactively with programs and activities the audience can participate in. Another way to use technology for instruction would be using Chat rooms or Wikkis. At the school where I teach, our Media and Technology Specialist started Wikkis for the kids in book club last year. The kids could access the Wikki from home or from school, and were able to discuss the books they were reading via the internet. It was a great way for them to share information with each other and a teacher they didn’t get to see on a regular basis. The use of GPS’s during a lesson is another way of incorporating technology into instruction. I have seen these used with buddy classes (older children paired with younger children) where the students traveled around the school finding different programmed locations where they would find a curriculum related question to answer before moving on to the next location.
As more technological advances are made, we have more and more opportunities to use it for instructional purposes. In many cases, technology makes both learning and instructing more interesting.