Overall Reflection

Reflecting on my experience in the Instructional Technology, Media, and Design program, it was an invaluable experience that greatly influenced my professional development. Throughout the program, I had multiple opportunities to try my hand at developing various media, using modern and emerging technologies that I had never experienced before, and approaching learner and professional performance problems from a completely new perspective. In addition, I acquired a collection of digital tools that I plan to employ in my daily practice.

My learning in the program was not without some challenges; however, it made my coursework even more beneficial. I learned to think more critically and approach tasks from different angles and to consider using technology not only as a tool, but as a catalyst for change, for student learning, teacher growth, and school improvement. As I conclude my learning in the program, I see clearly how the combination of hands-on projects, collaborative experiences, and exposure to new tools and frameworks has transformed my approach to teaching, learning, and leadership.

One of the biggest benefits of this program for me as an ESE teacher has been my growth in designing instruction that supports diverse learners, including students with disabilities. Throughout my career, I have always sought ways to make learning accessible and engaging for all students. When working on projects such as developing web-based instructional programs, designing gamified lessons, and creating multimedia-enhanced assessments, I learned how to leverage technology to provide my students with more accessible and stimulating learning. I have developed a strong belief that technology, when used thoughtfully, can empower students to acquire and demonstrate their knowledge in ways that best suit their abilities. Thanks to the program, I now have a broader toolkit and a stronger commitment to designing learning experiences that value student voice and choice.

As I conclude my coursework, I feel that it has helped me develop my leadership skills, particularly around professional development for teachers. Throughout the program, I had multiple opportunities to engage in projects that required collaborative planning, assessing, designing, and evaluating professional learning. Through working on projects such as a microlearning module on digital storytelling and a schoolwide plan for adopting artificial intelligence tools, I had opportunities to both lead and learn from other professionals. These experiences reinforced the idea that teachers, like students, need differentiated and hands-on learning opportunities that meet them where they are. I also learned that professional development must be data-driven, ongoing, and iterative to have an impact on teaching and student outcomes. This understanding will help me support colleagues at my school as we continue to integrate technology into our practice.

Additionally, the program allowed me to practice collaboration on multiple levels. Whether working on a group project to design instructional units, assessment tools, or analyzing performance gaps at a client school, I had many opportunities to communicate and work in a team to solve various problems. These collaborative opportunities not only enhanced the quality of the projects but also mirrored the type of teamwork that is essential in a school setting. 

Overall, my learning in the Instructional Technology, Media, and Design program has greatly expanded my knowledge and professional capacity. I vividly remember how I entered the program with an interest in finding new ways to engage my students. Now, I am leaving with the confidence and skills to lead change, support professional growth, and advocate for thoughtful and equitable uses of technology in education. The knowledge and experiences I gained will continue to shape my teaching, leadership, and vision for how technology can transform learning for all students.