IDT though my eyes
To define what IDT is to me is to focus on the functional role of the instructional designer in a corporate setting. That is, the ID professional helps to uncover unmet needs, translate gaps into learning initiatives, and guide the development and implementation processes of these initiatives. IDT is the systematic process of creating learning experiences utilizing various technologies, platforms, and settings. It is typically collaborative, involving SMEs, decision makers, and business leaders.
It’s an exciting time to develop the skills and knowledge of an IDT professional and to join the field. Change is in the air. We’re experiencing an incredible phenomenon in workplaces across the country as the Boomer generation is retiring, Gen Xers are reaching the apex of their careers, and Millennials are trying to carve out their niche. The pace of technological change is reaching warp speeds. These forces combine to create a need for companies to adapt their talent development practices in order to fill gaps in knowledge and skill and to meet their employees’ desires to continually learn and grow. The evolution of the workforce brings with it a need for companies to explore, evolve, and invest in learning and development initiatives.
My future IDT job is an evolution of my current job. It’s my wish to work within the talent management company I’ve been working with for more than 15 years to help to design and create best-in-class learning opportunities for our client companies through multi-modal (classroom style instructor-led, webinar, and self-paced eLearning/LMS) L&D solutions that address the gaps and help to translate business requirements into measurable skill and developmental improvements within the workforce.
Links to blogs and sites about IDT that I find helpful and interesting:
https://www.td.org/Publications/Blogs/Learning-Technologies-Blog