AECT Reflection

AECT Reflection 

Introduction

The field of educational technology is dynamic and constantly evolving with the vast number of new technologies. Innovative technology such as Virtual Reality and Artificial Intelligence introduced in recent years has already made a significant impact on the field, and it will likely continue to fuel the evolution of Educational Technology for many years to come. This constant innovation is perhaps one of the most exciting aspects of the field of educational technology. To stay current with the field, one must be an adaptable lifelong learner and have a deep understanding of the Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT) standards of ethical and professional practice. The AECT standards, which emphasize competencies in areas such as content knowledge, pedagogical application, learning environments, professional skills, and research, serve as essential benchmarks for responsible and impactful practice in this field (Association for Educational Communications and Technology 2012). In reflecting upon my work within the Educational Technology graduate program, these standards have been invaluable in developing my capabilities as a professional and a lifelong learner. Each project and experience have contributed to my confidence in navigating the field of educational technology ethically and intentionally.  

Content Knowledge 

The first AECT standard is Content Knowledge. Content knowledge encompasses the creation, use, assessment, management, and ethical considerations within the field of educational technology. This standard requires not only technical skill but also an understanding of instructional principles and ethical best practices that foster effective and responsible use of technology in education. Throughout my journey in the Master of Science in Educational Technology program, I have engaged in various projects that illustrate my understanding of the core concepts of content knowledge.  

The first indicator of Content Knowledge is “creating”. In the Digital Media Production for Instruction course, I developed a range of instructional materials, including video tutorials created with screen recording software and educational animated videos using Animaker. I also applied the C.R.A.P. design principles to enhance the effectiveness of my presentations. This course provided a solid foundation for content creation within the field.  

In the Facilitating Online Learning course, I created a comprehensive course proposal that identified a specific instructional need for online learning. This project required me to craft a convincing and professional justification for my proposal, reflecting the management indicator of AECT Standard One. This exercise mirrored the processes I might encounter in a professional setting.  

The last indicator of AECT Standard One is ethics. Ethics are crucial in the field of educational technology. To demonstrate an understanding of ethics with consideration of AECT standards, we performed a case study within the Foundations of Educational Technology course. This allowed for a real-life application of ethics as we evaluated the situation and suggested an appropriate response.  

Through these experiences, I have gained a comprehensive foundation in content knowledge, preparing me to navigate the complexities of educational technology with consideration and integrity. 

Content Pedagogy 

The second AECT standard of Content Pedagogy refers to the ability to implement educational technology with consideration to modern pedagogy. Pedagogy and Andragogy have been embedded throughout the program. Regarding the creation of content with pedagogy in mind, I have completed a variety of projects that have solidified my understanding. For example, in Introduction to Instructional Design, I composed a design document that required me to perform each step within the ADDIE design process. I performed a needs analysis, underwent the design and development process, and created an implementation and evaluation plan for a course on educational technology within the institution I worked for at the time.  
Additionally, to demonstrate learning of the assessment and evaluation of content pedagogy, in Advanced Computing Applications I identified how to implement and evaluate technology resources using the Technology Integration Matrix and rubrics. In Facilitating Online Learning, I demonstrated the ability to use and manage content pedagogy through exploring and identifying the correct time and place for educational technology. To do so, I identified an instructional issue that could best be solved using online learning. I then drafted a course proposal that outlined the rationale and course activities that demonstrated adherence to pedagogical best practices. The culmination of these courses has left me with a thorough understanding of content pedagogy and the appropriate method for educational technology implementation.  

Learning Environments 

Fostering a safe and inclusive learning environment is a crucial component to learner success. Without these needs being met, it is difficult for learners to achieve the desired outcomes. My knowledge of accessibility and universal design for learning was expanded when I took Introduction to Assistive Technology. This course highlighted the importance of creating courses using universal design for learning best practices and allowed me to explore through research how I can create a more inclusive environment within my current field of higher education. This knowledge was compounded onto the learner analysis I performed in Facilitating Online Learning and Introduction to Instructional Design. Both courses emphasized the importance of understanding the diverse needs of your targeted learning population. By integrating these principles of accessibility, universal design, and learner analysis, I am better equipped to design environments that not only meet diverse learner needs but also promote inclusivity and safety. These foundational understandings are essential for creating educational experiences where all learners feel valued and empowered to reach their full potential. 

Professional Knowledge and Skills 

AECT Standard four is Professional Knowledge and Skills. The indicators for this standard include collaboration, leadership, reflection, assessment/evaluation, and ethics. Throughout this program, I have had the opportunity to collaborate with my peers through peer-review processes and discussions. This has not only helped increase my understanding of subject material, but it has also helped me practice professional dialogue regarding the Educational Technology field.  

Additionally, this program has facilitated leadership opportunities for me as it inspired me to take ownership of projects within my current and past role regarding Educational Technology. One example of this is my creation and administration of an LMS community for my last role. This resource extended our departmental reach by providing our online learners with access to our services and resources. This project also led me to become a leader in the implementation of Blackboard Ultra at the university. As an early adopter, I was able to implement this new technology to assist in training other faculty and staff.  

My professional knowledge has increased substantially through the knowledge I have gained and experiences I have had throughout the program. Through these experiences, I have not only increased my professional knowledge but also strengthened the skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to the field. The combination of collaboration, leadership, reflection, and ethical practice has prepared me to navigate challenges in educational technology with confidence and a commitment to continual growth. 

Research 

The fifth AECT standard is research, and this refers to the ability to properly use methods of inquiry to positively impact learning. Within the program, I have completed a variety of research projects that demonstrate competency in the exploration, evaluation, synthesis, and application of research. In Introduction to Assistive Technology, I completed a research project on Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) in Higher Education. I began by exploring the topic and identifying research that had already been done. I then evaluated the research and compiled these sources identifying common themes. Finally, I applied this research by creating a website identifying ways higher education institutions can better support AAC users in the classroom.  

In addition to this project, in Research Design and Methodology, I solidified my understanding of the AECT indicators for research: Theoretical Foundations, Method, Assessing/Evaluating, and Ethics. This course required me to write a research proposal. The first step was identifying research that was relevant to the chosen topic to formulate a theoretical foundation of what has already been done in the field. Additionally, we learned about research methodology, and identifying the best method for our chosen research study. Along the way, I also composed an annotated bibliography to be used to help compile my introduction section of the paper. This required me to assess and evaluate the contributing research and synthesize the information to make logical connections. To demonstrate a thorough understanding of ethics, we also completed IRB training on the topic. These assignments allowed me to refine my research strategies and have an applied understanding of the indicators of AECT standard five.  

Conclusion 

To summarize, the AECT standards have guided me throughout my educational journey within the Master of Science in Educational Technology program. Through them, my approach to learning, teaching, and professional endeavors have taken shape. Each standard- Content Knowledge, Pedagogical Skills, Learning Environment, Professional Knowledge, and Research- have been embedded throughout the program. Thus, helping me build the technical and theoretical knowledge I need in the field. The hands-on projects, peer collaboration, and theoretical frameworks I have learned in the program will continue to aid me on my career journey. With consideration to these five standards, I hope to contribute to the evolving field of Educational Technology in an ethical and meaningful way,  

References

Association for Educational Communications and Technology . (2012, July 16). AECT Standards. 2012 Version. Bloomington, IN; AECT .