E-learning online education or internet encyclopedia concept. Open laptop and book compilation in a classroom. 3d illustration Recent grad David Zokvic shares why you should get a master's in educational technology.
Why you should get a master’s in educational technology
This is the digital era, and technological advances are happening all the time. Despite this reality, we’re slowly learning that simply having digital devices available in the classroom might not be that helpful to students. It’s true that technology allows students and teachers more access to information and the ability to improve efficiency in some ways.
But, there is an art to navigating the complexities of when and how to implement tech in the classroom. Giving teachers a bunch of devices is only one step in the process. Educators and paraprofessionals need to be appropriately trained in educational technology and best practices. This isn’t new information, though. Teachers have recognized this for years. Teachers trained in educational technology understand how children learn and can determine the most effective ways to bring technology into the learning experience. These teachers are both master teachers as well as technologists.
Concordia University’s M.S. in Educational Technology
Concordia University Wisconsin offers a Master of Science in Educational Technology. This is a project-based program geared toward anyone who educates others and is passionate about innovation. You don’t have to be a teacher to earn this degree. Designers, HR personnel, and marketers, for example, can thrive in this program.
Since it is project based, you learn in ways most relevant to your goals and needs. Another unique feature of this program is that, as you progress, you will earn digital badges that prove your competency in dozens of areas. You can use these badges before you graduate to show employers your new skills.
Q + A with Educational Technology grad David Zokvic
Recent graduate David Zokvic took time to share about his experience in the M.S. in Educational Technology program here at Concordia University.
Tell us a little about yourself.
I’m a multi-disciplinary nerd, living in Kalamazoo MI. I love helping people find the information they need to be successful—before I started a career in higher education, I spent several years working in public libraries. When I’m not working or doing homework, I love to write, hike, play board and tabletop games with my friends, wander around a used book store, and track down the best coffee and or sushi around. I’m also a sucker for whatever is coming next in the MCU.
What made you choose Concordia University’s Ed Tech program?
I had looked at several programs—I eventually landed on the EDT program because of their focus on project-based learning and practical application. A unique suite of electives also helped tilt it—I was looking specifically for a program that had some educational game design sprinkled in, and I was intrigued by the educational ministry course. I wanted to learn some strategies for approaching learning from many different angles in varied contexts.
What course did you enjoy the most in the Ed Tech program?
Without a doubt, Educators as Game Designers. It allowed me to explore not only two of my favorite topics (learning and game design), but also how those two fields can borrow and interrelate with one another. It was an excellent blend of research and practical application, with a real understanding of how to apply learning principles to games, and vice versa.
What were your professors like?
Incredibly generous with their knowledge, and understanding of what it means to be an adult learner—particularly in the COVID-times. There was one final project I was working on, that I had been through several drafts on and it just wasn’t working properly. My professor turned that into a learning experience, understanding that iteration is a part of the process, sometimes things don’t work, and worked with me to submit an artifact that showed that revision journey, even without a final product.
Tell us about your current position.
I’m an Instructional Designer at Kalamazoo Valley Community College, where I consult with faculty and help them build meaningful face-to-face, blended, and online learning. I also do a lot of work sharing and workshops helping them apply Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and web-accessibility best practices. Being the good millennial that I am, I also have a side-hustle as a narrative designer at Northward Compass LCC, a remote mixed-media studio based out of Orlando, FL. There, I sling words for a living.
How has the program helped you reach your goals?
*Laughs* Well, it got me a new job and promoted from an Assistant Instructional Designer to a full ID. But more broadly, it helped me to fall in love with learning and research again. It helped me to realize that a core strength of mine is academic work and writing, and that I need to keep pursing that to best realize the talents God has blessed me with.
Would you recommend this program?
Without a doubt.
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Do you want to know more about getting a master’s in educational technology?
If you want more information about Concordia’s M.S. in Educational Technology, you can fill out a request here.
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