2.5 Assignment-Critical Reflection Journal-Blog

What is new to my thinking or learning this past week? 

             This week we learned about the various types of Instructional Design (ID).  I am certain I have been exposed to one or more of these models/processes during my academic journey.  However, I can now put a specific name to them.  Understanding each model or process better will enable me to choose the best one for the course content I am developing as an Instructional Designer.

How has this new information challenged me?

            To be proficient at something requires a better understanding of what you are trying to do.  To be competent at something requires you to not only understand it but also be able to replicate that understanding. However, to be an expert at something, you must have a high level of knowledge, duplicate it, and convey the information to others.   Coming into this course, I would consider myself a novice. However, my goal over the next week is to move from a novice to proficient and reach a certain level of competency regarding the Instructional Design (ID) process. 

How has this stretched my professional growth and development?  What are the implications of this week’s learning on my professional practice?

            I find myself stretched in many ways with each course and assignment in this program. Whether it be new terminology or the ability to replicate what I have learned through completing a pertinent task, I am growing more and more each day.  What I am learning throughout this program will expand my toolbox of knowledge and resources that can be used in various ways.  Sometimes I feel like my toolbox is overflowing with new tools, but I know by gaining these new tools and knowledge, I will be able to serve students better no matter what role I have in the organization.

 How can these new learnings be used to impact my personal faith journey and my impact for the Kingdom?

             Whether developing curriculum content or writing a Sunday School course, instructional design (ID) is the framework for making it happen.  Taking the time to understand the best model or process to use will help the student or learner.  Though it may not be in all work settings, I believe Biblical principles in the Instructional Design (ID) process are a way of sharing your faith covertly.  Jesus used this throughout scripture; for example, you don’t have to look too deeply into the parables to see that He spoke those words to teach a specific lesson and did so with student/learner in mind.  He spoke in a way that challenged them to think and be engaged in the learning process.  Likewise, quality and effective Instructional Design (ID) engage the student/learner in the learning process.  Similarly, I believe the bible was designed/assembled to engage the reader, allowing them to learn and effectively gain knowledge.