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                “Who is B.C. and what does he do?” This intriguing question has followed me several years and fueled my curiosity and encouragement to apply for admissions into the Masters of Instructional Design and Technology program at Georgia State University.   I am confident that my past experiences and formal education are totally aligned with the field of Instructional Design.  And the question remains, “Who is B.C. and what does he do?” 

                For thirteen years, I worked a rewarding part-time job as a Guest Services Lead Supervisor for a major venue in the city.  I accepted an opportunity to work directly with training and development group for all part-time staff.  Soon afterwards, I was introduced to B.C., an independent contractor hired to develop and implement training materials to change the work culture of the organization.  I was intrigued when I observed B.C. conduct a training module. He was exciting and communicated effectively.  He presented some pretty cool materials including charts and games.  I was thrilled to work with B.C. and have never forgotten the experience.  But the question remains, “Who is B.C. and what does he do?”

                At the end of his contract, B.C. presented the training materials that he created to the training and development group.  The materials were phenomenal and provided a concise roadmap for the group to follow to continue training conducting the training modules.  B.C. had the learners complete a survey to define the learners and their characteristics.  He designed a play-by-play training proto-type that determined the general scope and the sequence of the content.  The proto-type was demonstrated before a small sample of the audience in an effort to receive feedback prior to the large-scale development.  B.C. used this information to ensure the development ofmaterials were appropriate for the instructional goal and strategy including videos, charts, and manuals.  Before B.C.’s contract ended, he delivered all the source materials and documentation that supported changing the work culture of the organization.  And the question remains, “Who is B.C. and what does he do?”

                Today I can answer this question with confidence – B.C. is an instructional designer that I credit with introducing me to the field of Instructional Design.  He is the ADDIE framework and the essential elements of design.  He is the collaborative ASC cycle and the five phases of design.  Although B.C. does not use instructional designer as an official title, his work and processes allude to the roles and responsibilities of an instructional designer.   I am excited about the vast opportunities afforded by this career field and I look forward to a bright future as an instructional designer.  Thank you B.C.