Instructional Design and Technology
2015-2016

Admission | Courses | Program | Requirements | Integrated | Certificate | Profile

Chairperson:  Hoyet Hemphill
Graduate Committee Chairperson: Leaunda Hemphill
Office:  Horrabin Hall 47
Telephone: (309) 298-1952 Fax: (309) 298-2978
E-mail: IDT@wiu.edu
Website: wiu.edu/coehs/idt
Location of Program Offering: Macomb and Internet

Graduate Faculty
Professors

  • Hoyet H. Hemphill, Ph.D., Utah State University
  • Leaunda S. Hemphill, Ph.D., Utah State University
  • Christopher J. Lantz, Ph.D., Southern Illinois University
  • Richard A. Thurman, Ph.D., Brigham Young University
  • Seung-won Yoon, Ph.D., University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Associate Graduate Faculty
Professor

  • James A. West, Ed. D., Northern Illinois University

 Program Description

The Department of Instructional Design and Technology offers both a Master of Science in Instructional Design and Technology and Post Baccalaureate Certificates in Instructional Design and Technology. Certified teachers who 1) complete the IDT Master’s program with a Technology Specialist emphasis OR complete the Technology Specialist Post Baccalaureate Certificate, and 2) pass the required state tests can also apply for an Illinois State Board of Education Technology Specialist endorsement.

 Integrated Baccalaureate and Master’s Degree Program

Go to wiu.edu/graduate_studies/integrated_programs/ for details and program offerings.

Master of Science Program

The M.S. degree is designed to prepare graphic designers; educational technologists; trainers in industry and business; technology specialists; and classroom teachers to develop, produce, and evaluate instructional and training materials. Courses are offered in various formats including online, two-way compressed video, and hands-on experience. With careful planning through the department graduate advisor, the Master’s program may be completed entirely online. The program provides students with knowledge and skills in the following areas:

  1. Distance learning applications in training and education
  2. Multimedia applications in training and education
  3. Course work and training program development
  4. Systematic instructional design and evaluation of instruction and training
  5. Instructional software development and utilization
  6. Technology integration in the K-12 classroom and at the K-12 building level

Graduates of the program will enter or continue careers in interactive multimedia, computer-based graphics, distance learning, and training. Graduates may also use their skills to integrate technology in their classrooms or school and for professional development of educators. The program also serves students interested in pursuing advanced graduate studies in instructional design and related areas.

The Department of Instructional Design and Technology is dedicated to a high level of academic scholarship in its professional program and to excellence in the preparation of technology specialists. Faculty associated with the department includes distinguished scholars, researchers, and authors of national and international reputation. Most faculty have either taught or served in public schools or have worked in professional training and instructional product development settings. All have shown commitment to the continued improvement of education through the process of professional study, the development of new approaches to teaching, and the design and publication of innovative and scholarly courses of study.

 Admission Requirements

The IDT program welcomes and invites qualified applicants from diverse fields and interests.  Applicants desiring admission into the IDT graduate program must formally apply to the School of Graduate Studies declaring Instructional Design and Technology as their area of study.  Furthermore, applicants must indicate whether they are applying for the General Instructional Design and Technology Emphasis or the Technology Specialist Emphasis.

Applicants may qualify for admission to the General Instructional Design and Technology Emphasis under the following conditions:

1. Applicants must meet the general admission requirements of the School of Graduate Studies. Currently, the School of Graduate Studies admits students with an overall undergraduate GPA of at least 2.75 (or a GPA of at least 3.0 for the final two years of undergraduate coursework). If undergraduate requirements are not met, the departmental admissions committee will consider for admission applicants who have completed at least 12 semester hours of graduate coursework with a cumulative graduate GPA of 3.2 or higher from a regionally accredited university.  All others will be denied admission. No more than nine semester hours completed before being admitted to the program can be used to meet degree requirements, unless the hours were earned while in an IDT Post-Baccalaureate Certificate program.

2. Applicants must submit a 1000-word structured essay that describes their interests and career goals as they apply to the field of instructional design and technology.  (Structured essay questions are available online or in the department.)

3. Applicants must submit three letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to the applicant’s academic potential at the graduate level.

4. International students whose native language is not English must satisfy one of the following criteria:

a. meet the minimum TOEFL admission score required by the School of Graduate Studies;

b. complete the WESL program prior to taking IDT graduate courses;

c. hold a bachelor’s degree (with four years in residence) from an accredited college/university within the USA and within two years of matriculation at WIU.

In addition, applicants for the state-approved Technology Specialist Emphasis must also meet the following conditions:

1. Applicants must have completed a state-approved teacher education program and hold a teaching certificate/license.

2. Applicants must show evidence of meeting the National Educational Technology Standards for Teachers (NETS-T) by submitting a self-assessment of competencies.

Applicants for the state-approved Technology Specialist Emphasis should also be aware of the following:

1. Applicants who lack basic competencies in microcomputer application software may be required to take IDT 503.

2. Applicants to the Technology Specialist Emphasis who have identified NETS-T deficiencies may be required to take IDT 504, or they may be required to complete a faculty approved plan of selected professional development activities.

3. Completion of the Technology Specialist Emphasis does not automatically lead to an Illinois State Board of Education Technology Specialist endorsement. Questions concerning this licensure should be directed to the IDT Graduate Advisor.

 Degree Requirements

Students seeking the Master of Science in Instructional Design and Technology may choose to follow a research plan or a course work plan. The research plan is 32 semester hours and includes either IDT 600 Applied Project, or IDT 605 Thesis, which students present to their Departmental Graduate Committee. The course work plan is 35 semester hours. Students in the course work plan must complete an additional six semester hours chosen from courses in the IDT program. Students selecting the course work plan are required to complete IDT 603, and present to their Departmental Graduate Committee a portfolio of completed projects that demonstrate competencies in specific areas (i.e., instructional design, multimedia development, graphics applications, technology integration, etc.).

There are two emphasis options for students pursuing the Master of Science in Instructional Design and Technology: General Instructional Design and Technology Emphasis, and Technology Specialist Emphasis.

I. Core Courses: 11 s.h.

IDT 500 Preseminar (2)
IDT 505 Foundations of Instructional Technology (3)
IDT 510 Principles of Instructional Design (3)
EIS 500 Research Methods (3)

II. Directed Electives (select one emphasis): 15 s.h.

A. General Instructional Design and Technology Emphasis

IDT 503 Microcomputer Applications in Instructional Technology (3)
IDT 504 Technology Applications for the Classroom Teacher (3)
IDT 515 Telecommunications and Distance Learning (3)
IDT 516 Internet Resources for Education and Training (3)
IDT 517 Integration of the Internet and Multimedia in Education and Training (3)
IDT 525 Grant Writing Basics (3)
IDT 529 Integration of Computer-Based Technology in Education and Training (3)
IDT 530 Graphics Applications in Education and Training (3)
IDT 532 Fundamentals of Performance Technology for Instructional Designers and Technologists (3)
IDT 534 Technology Issues and Professional Development in Education and Training (3)
IDT 535 Photographic Applications in Education and Training (3)
IDT 536 Video Production for Multimedia (3)
IDT 537 Instructional Video Production (3)
IDT 538 Imaging Technology (3)
IDT 539 Hardware, Operating Systems, and Networking in the Schools (3)
IDT 540 Interactive Multimedia Development (3)
IDT 541 Advanced Interactive Multimedia Development (3)
IDT 545 Instructional Web Development (3)
IDT 550 Advanced Instructional Design (3)
IDT 560 Visual Literacy (3)
IDT 561 Instructional Simulations and Gaming (3)
IDT 565 Management of Instructional Technology (3)
IDT 591 Independent Study (1–4, repeatable to 6 with change in topic)
IDT 595 Technology Planning and Research (3)
IDT 601 Seminar in Instructional Technology (2)
IDT 620 Instructional Design and Technology Internship (4)

OR

B. Technology Specialist Emphasis

IDT 517 Integration of the Internet and Multimedia in Education and Training (3)
IDT 529 Integration of Computer-Based Technology in Education and Training (3)
IDT 534 Technology Issues and Professional Development in Education and Training (3)
IDT 539 Hardware, Operating Systems, and Networking in the Schools (3)
IDT 595 Technology Planning and Research (3)

III. General Electives: 3 s.h.

Students may choose from among courses in the IDT program or from other departments’ offerings to augment and enhance their program objectives and employment opportunities.

IV. Exit Options (select one of the following options)

A. Research Plan: 3 s.h.

IDT 600 Applied Project (3)
or
IDT 605 Thesis (3)

TOTAL PROGRAM: 32 s.h.

B. Course Work: 6 s.h.

IDT 603 Graduate Portfolio (0)
General electives (6)

TOTAL PROGRAM: 35 s.h.

Post-Baccalaureate Certificate Programs

The department offers post-baccalaureate certificates in Online and Distance Learning Development, Educational Technology Specialist, Graphic Applications, Multimedia, Technology Integration in Education, and Workplace Learning and Performance.  For program details, go to the post-baccalaureate certificate page.

 Course Descriptions

Instructional Design and Technology (IDT)

406G Advanced Topics in Photography. (3) Advanced camera and darkroom controls for processing and printing both black and white and color. Prerequisite: IDT 240 or permission of the instructor.

408G Large Format Photography. (3) Introduction to the large format view camera and its controls. Studio, available, and location lighting will be used with a variety of different subjects and props in both black and white and color. Prerequisites: IDT 240 or permission of the instructor.

433G Instructional 3D Modeling and Animation. (3) Instructional uses of three-dimensional modeling and animation are explored including basic modeling tools, virtual camera controls, materials, video production, and lighting. Prerequisites: IDT 205 or equivalent, or permission of the instructor.

460G Instructional Virtual Reality Design. (3) Focuses on the integration of virtual reality technologies for instruction and training. Provides opportunities to develop instructional/training virtual environments utilizing virtual reality authoring systems. Prerequisite: IDT 355 or 561.

480G Advanced Web-Based Instruction. (3) Emphasizes the potential of Internet technology to foster interactivity in design of performance solutions. Students move beyond static Web page creation to advanced incorporation of resources in support of highly interactive forms, database creation and management, and client/server integration. Prerequisite: IDT 250 or permission of instructor.

500 Preseminar. (2) (On-line course only) Introduction to the field of instructional design and technology. Through readings, presentations, and discussions a broad sweep of the field will be explored.

503 Microcomputer Applications in Instructional Technology. (3) (On-line course only) Introductory survey of applications of microcomputers in education and training including Computer Assisted Instruction, communication and presentation graphics, multimedia and hypermedia authoring on the Internet, word processing databases, and spreadsheets. 

504 Technological Applications for the Classroom Teacher. (3) (On-line course only) Build on basic computing skills, focusing on the effective use of technology-enhanced instruction practices to meet the state and national technology standards for teachers. Intended for students who have completed their educational methodology courses or who are practicing teachers. Prerequisite: Working knowledge of computers and the Internet.

505 Foundations of Instructional Technology. (3) (On-line course only) Introductory survey of the field of Instructional Technology.  Upon completion students will be able to: (1) communicate about the field’s terminology, history, accomplishments and issues; (2) describe the advantages, disadvantages, characteristics, and critical attributes of various instructional media; and (3) critically evaluate the foundations in instructional technology. 

510 Principles of Instructional Design. (3) (On-line course only) Develop knowledge and skills in systematic analysis of the teaching‑learning process using an instructional design approach. Study and application of instructional design theories and models. 

512 Instructional Development for Business and Training. (3) Develop knowledge and skills in using systematic processes for designing training programs for business and industry. Focus will be on the entire process of training/instructional analysis, design, development, implementation and evaluation. Prerequisite: Graduate standing.

515 Telecommunications and Distance Learning. (3) (On-line course only) Examines a variety of telecommunications systems used for distance learning and the challenges surrounding their selection and application. Emphasis is on the effective design, development, and delivery of instructional strategies for distance learning environments. Prerequisite: IDT 505 or 510.

516 Internet Resources for Education and Training. (3) (On-line course only) Focuses on developing skills in finding, evaluating, and using internet resources for education and training. Collaboration tools, social media, and mobile applications are explored. Emphasis is placed on the appropriate use of these materials, including copyright compliance.

517 Integration of the Internet and Multimedia in Education and Training. (3) (On-line course only) Focuses on the integration of the Internet and multimedia into curricular material design, development, and evaluation for educational and training purposes. Prerequisite: IDT 504, evidence of meeting the National Educational Technology Standard for Teachers, or permission of instructor/department chair.

525 Grant Writing Basics. (3) (On-line course only) To identify and select appropriate grants, learn strategies for effective proposal writing, and develop skills for utilizing a team approach to generate ideas, coordinate writing, maximize organizational involvement, and strengthen successful grant implementation. 

529 Integration of Computer-Based Technology in Education and Training. (3) (On-line course only) Focus on the integration of computer-based technologies into curricular material design, development, and evaluation for educational and training purposes.

530 Graphics Applications in Education and Training. (3) Survey of imaging-related applications such as image editing, 3D modeling, movie editing and special effects software. Course materials cost required.

532 Fundamentals of Performance Technology for Instructional Designers and Technologists. (3) (On-line course only) This course surveys performance technology approaches and tools to improve the performance of individuals, work groups, and work processes. Students will collaboratively identify instructional and non-instructional performance problems, suggest interventions based upon data-driven needs analyses, and implement and evaluate programmatic solutions in cooperation with the clients. Prerequisites: IDT 505 or 510.

534 Technology Issues and Professional Development in Education and Training. (3) (On-line course only) Focuses on exploring issues and professional development related to instructional technology.

535 Photographic Applications in Education and Training. (3) Production techniques such as still camera handling, basic darkroom skills, and color slide presentations, and the use of photographic images in microcomputer-based multimedia will be explored.   Course materials cost required.

536 Video Production for Multimedia. (3) (On-line course on rotating basis) Emphasizes digital video production techniques such as video camera handling, lighting techniques, special effects, and desktop video editing for use in computer-based multimedia.

537 Instructional Video Production. (3) Project research, planning and budgeting, script-writing, and media design for instructional video. Course includes casting, lighting, audio, camera movement, angles and camera techniques. Course materials cost required. Prerequisites: IDT 360, 530, 536, or permission of instructor or department chair.

538 Imaging Technology. (3) (On-line course on rotating basis) Study of imagery as a language of communication. Provides practical experiences in digital and electronic still images and nonverbal messages. Students will produce electronic images to be incorporated into educational products. Course materials cost required.

539 Hardware, Operating Systems, and Networking in the Schools. (3) (On-line course only)  Plan for, design, use, and evaluate computer hardware and software, operating systems, and networking for educational settings. Prerequisites: IDT 504 or evidence of meeting the National Education Technology Standards for Teachers, or permission of instructor/department chair.

540 Interactive Multimedia Development. (3) Basic principles of design and development of interactive instructional computer applications.  Students will complete several projects utilizing a representative multimedia authoring tool and will create prototype instructional software. Course materials cost required. Prerequisite: IDT 510 or permission of instructor.

541 Advanced Interactive Multimedia Development. (3) Advanced skills in development of media, efficient software design, and application of instructional design principles to deliver computer-based multimedia.  Students will perform a series of exercises and continue development of refined multimedia products. Course materials cost required. Prerequisite: IDT 540.

545 Instructional Web Development. (3) (On-line course on rotating basis) Development of web-based instruction and the application of current commercial products for web-based course delivery.  Deals with HTML authoring and adapting graphics and movies for web-based delivery. Course materials cost required.

550 Advanced Instructional Design. (3) Design, develop, and evaluate an instructional system.  Using the knowledge of instruction design, students will develop a mini-instructional system. Prerequisite: IDT 510.

553 Professional Development. (1–3, repeatable) Studies leading to applications of instructional technology and telecommunications which emphasize competency development in a specialized area, such as: distance learning, electronic classrooms, and computer-based presentation systems.  Does not apply to degree program. Graded S/U.

560 Visual Literacy. (3) (On-line course only) Understanding the theories of visual communication and application in preparation of illustrations, icons, and moving images.  Students will review the salient literature on visual literacy and apply principles for nonverbal communication in text and computer-based media.

561 Instructional Simulations and Gaming. (3) Focuses on the use of simulations and games for instruction and training. Provides opportunities to develop instructional simulations utilizing appropriate development software. Also focuses on the effective and efficient development of game-based instruction. Course materials cost required.

565 Management of Instructional Technology. (3) (On-line course only) Emphasis is given to project management, assessment of instructional needs, coordinating instructional design and production of instructional materials and projects, and identifying resource needs and allocation. Prerequisite: IDT 505 or 510.

573 Professional Development. (1–3, repeatable to 9) Studies leading to applications of Instructional Technology and Telecommunications which emphasize competency development in a specialized area, such as: distance learning, electronic classrooms, curriculum integration, presentation systems, and multimedia techniques.  Course includes the completion of a project.  Does not apply to degree program.

591 Independent Study. (1–4, repeatable to 6 with change in topic) An investigation of issues related to the student’s major area, not specifically covered in other courses.  A substantial written report, as well as an informal oral report will be required.  Prerequisites: 15 hours of IDT classes, filing of degree plan, graduate committee formed, and permission of the department chair.

595 Technology, Planning and Research. (3) (On-line course only) Emphasis on the planning, leadership, and evaluation of technology integration in educational and training environments. Provides students with the opportunity to apply theories and techniques of educational technology through on-site field experiences. Prerequisites: EIS 500, IDT 510, IDT 529, IDT 534, IDT 539, or permission of instructor/department chair.

600 Applied Project. (3) Advanced level fieldwork in a setting appropriate to the student’s professional goals.  The result of the applied project will be presented to the student’s Graduate Committee.  Graded S/U.  Prerequisite: Permission of department chair.

603 Graduate Portfolio. (0) Throughout their graduate program, students will develop a portfolio documenting their knowledge and skills in instructional design and technology. The result of the portfolio will be presented to the student’s Graduate Committee. Graded S/U. Prerequisite: Permission of the department chair.

605 Thesis. (3) Thesis direction under the guidance of a major advisor to meet the need of the student.  A written thesis will be presented to the student’s Graduate Committee.  Graded S/U.  Prerequisite: Permission of the department chair.

620 Instructional Design and Technology Internship. (4) Integrates instructional technology theories and practical skills with application in a real-life environment.  Students are exposed to a variety of positions in that environment during the semester.  During the internship, the student will demonstrate his/her ability to integrate, organize and manage a project.  Graded S/U. Prerequisites: Completion of 15 hours of approved IDT course work and permission of the department chair.

756 Planning for Technology. (3) This course focuses on the role of the school administrator in addressing issues and strategies for integrating technology in K12 schools. Topics explored include the use of technology to support teaching and learning; the integration of technology into long- and short-term planning and budgeting; models for technology staffing, professional development, and support; and alignment with state and federal technology initiatives and standards. Corequisite: Concurrent enrollment in EDL 725. Prerequisites: Acceptance into the Ed.D. program in Educational Leadership and completion of the first year-long block: SPED 613.