To improve student learning, an educational technologist combines his knowledge of technological tools with educational content. Computer hardware, software, and Web-based products are common technological tools. A graduate degree in education, instructional design, educational psychology, or a related field is usually required to become an educational technologist. Educational technologists can work in a variety of settings, including educational institutions, government agencies, instructional software companies, and other private businesses.
Many educational technologists think of themselves as teachers. In practice, the educational technologist’s goal is to assist individuals in advancing their knowledge of a particular subject or skill by utilizing technology. The educational technologist must be familiar with how people learn as well as the technological obstacles that can sometimes obstruct the learning process. For example, a software implementation that appears logical to a software developer may not be the best educational feature. An educational technologist can collaborate with the developer in this case to create a more effective learning tool.
The majority of educational technologists have an educational, psychological, or instructional design background. Some may have a programming background or a degree in a technology-related field, but this is rarely a requirement. In most cases, the educational technologist’s role is to have a thorough understanding of how hardware and software products aid learning. An educational technologist who is familiar with various learning styles can assist in the development of instructional technology that meets the visual, auditory, and kinesthetic needs of individual students.
Educational technologists frequently bring the worlds of technology and content creation together. To ensure that the product is user-friendly, an educational technologist might collaborate with a software developer. Requests for shorter paragraphs and formatting that can be viewed more easily on a computer screen may be made when working with the content writer. The majority of the improvement suggestions are based on observing and comprehending the end user’s challenges and needs.
With the demand for and use of technology as a learning tool, job opportunities for educational technologists have increased. Educational technologists are hired by schools and universities to improve curricula and create online learning programs. These experts will assist government agencies in developing and delivering Web-based training programs to employees and the general public. Educational technologists are employed by companies that provide instructional software to ensure that their products are user-friendly. Educational technologists are used by many large companies and organizations to improve internal training processes and information delivery to employees.