Mastering Instructional Design: A Deep Dive into UCF's Programs and Expertise
The landscape of education and professional development is in constant flux, driven by technological advancements and evolving learning needs. In this dynamic environment, the art and science of instructional design have become paramount. University of Central Florida (UCF) stands as a significant institution in shaping this field, offering a range of programs and housing a dedicated team of experts who are at the forefront of instructional design innovation. This article delves into UCF's commitment to instructional design, exploring its graduate certificate and master's degree programs, and highlighting the diverse expertise of its instructional design faculty.
The Foundation of Effective Learning: What is Instructional Design?
At its core, instructional design (ID) is a systematic process of analyzing learning needs and designing, developing, implementing, and evaluating instructional experiences. It is about creating effective, engaging, and efficient learning opportunities that lead to measurable improvements in knowledge, skills, and performance. Instructional designers work across various sectors, including K-12 education, higher education, corporate training, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. Their work involves understanding how people learn, identifying learning objectives, selecting appropriate instructional strategies and technologies, and ensuring that the resulting learning interventions are both impactful and accessible. The demand for skilled instructional designers is on the rise, with projections indicating a significant growth in the field, underscoring the importance of specialized training and development.
UCF's Graduate Certificate in Instructional Design: A Stepping Stone to Expertise
For professionals looking to gain specialized skills in instructional design without committing to a full master's degree, UCF offers a Graduate Certificate in Instructional Design. This program is meticulously crafted to prepare educators, instructional designers, and human resource and training specialists in corporate, industry, governmental, and educational settings. The curriculum is designed to equip individuals with the necessary skills to design training, professional development, or other instructional materials.
The certificate provides a crucial opportunity for both study and professional training, focusing on the development of design and development skills essential for an instructional designer in a multitude of fields. A significant emphasis is placed on fostering substantial independent thinking, cultivating scholarly attitudes, and adopting rigorous methods. Importantly, all courses within this program are delivered entirely online, offering flexibility for busy professionals. It is important to note that students on Student Visas are not eligible for this certificate. The program requires a minimum of 15 credit hours beyond the Bachelor's Degree.
For those choosing to complete this program exclusively through UCF's online offerings, there is a potential reduction in campus-based fees. However, international students holding F or J visas have specific enrollment requirements. They are mandated to enroll in a full-time course load of 9 credit hours during the fall and spring semesters, with only 3 of those credit hours permitted in a completely online format. For comprehensive details on enrollment stipulations for international students, UCF Global, reachable at (407) 823-2337, is the designated resource. It is also crucial to be aware that UCF is not authorized to provide online courses or instruction to students in certain states, a factor that prospective students should verify.
Read also: Careers in Instructional Design
UCF's Master of Arts in Instructional Design and Technology: A Comprehensive Pathway
UCF's Master of Arts (MA) in Instructional Design and Technology is a robust program designed to prepare graduates for the multifaceted demands of the field. This program offers a comprehensive curriculum that delves into the science and art of designing innovative, effective, and engaging training and educational programs. Students are encouraged to link research to design principles, explore the intricacies of human learning, and implement strategies that demonstrably improve education, training, and job performance. The program emphasizes that effective instructional design is far more than simply utilizing computers and digital media; it is about understanding and applying pedagogical principles to enhance learning outcomes.
The MA program offers three distinct tracks, each tailored to prepare students for specific career paths and industry needs:
The e-Learning Track: This track is specifically designed for educators (K-12 and higher education) and instructional designers who aim to master the design, delivery, and evaluation of high-quality online and blended (hybrid) learning materials. Graduates of this track are well-prepared to secure positions in business and industry, K-12 settings, and higher education institutions that are increasingly leveraging online technologies to enhance learning. The e-Learning track is fully delivered online. As with the graduate certificate, Student Visas are not eligible for this specific track. While the program can be completed online, it's advisable to confirm that all elective options and prerequisites are available online. International students should consult UCF Global for specific enrollment requirements, including the full-time course load and limitations on online credit hours. UCF's authorization to offer online instruction varies by state. This particular program has been suspended effective Spring 2026.
The Educational Technology Track: This track caters to classroom teachers seeking to enhance their technical proficiencies and become adept at integrating technology seamlessly into their curriculum. It also cultivates the leadership skills necessary for aspiring site-based technology coordinators in K-12 schools, colleges, and universities. The focus is on increasing technical skills and developing leadership capabilities for technology integration.
The Instructional Systems Track: This track is ideal for prospective and practicing instructional designers, training specialists, and training directors or managers working in business, industry, government, or other sectors where ongoing training, professional development, and lifelong learning are critical. Graduates of this track develop expertise in understanding how and why people learn, how to effectively stimulate and facilitate learning, and how to utilize diverse instructional delivery systems. They gain the ability to analyze training requirements and design, develop, evaluate, and manage training and educational programs using current and emerging technologies. The Instructional Systems track is also completed entirely online. This track requires a minimum of 36 credit hours beyond the bachelor's degree. Similar to other online programs, Student Visas are not eligible for this track, and international students must adhere to specific enrollment guidelines.
Read also: Effective Learning Experiences
UCF's commitment to excellence in instructional design is further validated by the recognition of its MA in Instructional Design and Technology, which was ranked as the No. 4 Best Educational Technology Program by Best Colleges in 2020. This prestigious ranking underscores the program's quality and its contribution to the field.
Beyond the MA: Doctoral Studies in Instructional Design and Technology
For individuals aspiring to leadership roles in research, academia, or advanced practice within the field, UCF offers a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) program with a specialization in Instructional Design and Technology. This doctoral track prepares students for teaching and research in areas such as instructional design and technology, instructional systems, educational technology, and e-learning. Graduates are well-equipped for careers as university professors, corporate directors of training and human resources, and corporate researchers.
The doctoral program emphasizes the design of conventional in-class, online, and hybrid training and educational programs, along with the strategic application of appropriate instructional technologies to facilitate adult learning. The program requires a minimum of 60 credit hours beyond the master's degree, encompassing core courses, specialization courses, electives, an internship, and a dissertation. Further details about this specialized track can be found at education.ucf.edu/insttech.
A Specialized Focus: Graduate Certificate in Instructional Design for Simulations
Recognizing the growing importance of immersive learning experiences, UCF also offers a Graduate Certificate in Instructional Design for Simulations. This program is designed to prepare educators, instructional designers, and human resource and training specialists to collaborate effectively with engineers, graphic artists, computer programmers, and game developers. The goal is to equip them to design advanced training and instructional systems that incorporate simulations and instructional video games to enhance human motivation and performance.
This certificate adopts an interdisciplinary approach, focusing on the pedagogical aspects of educational simulations and games. Students complete five required courses, totaling 15 credit hours, to earn the certificate. Like the other graduate certificates, it is delivered fully online, and students on Student Visas are not eligible. The same enrollment guidelines for international students and state-specific authorization apply as with other online programs.
Read also: Instructional Design Internship Guide
The Human Element: UCF's Instructional Design Team
The success of any instructional design program is deeply intertwined with the expertise and dedication of its faculty and staff. UCF's instructional design team is comprised of individuals with diverse backgrounds, extensive experience, and a shared passion for enhancing learning. Their collective knowledge spans various domains, from educational technology and curriculum development to specific pedagogical approaches and emerging technologies.
Rhiannon, leading the central Instructional Design team, holds a PhD in educational technology and possesses certificates in life coaching, transformational coaching, and death coaching. Her role involves supporting faculty development, offering pedagogical consultation, and ensuring the quality of online teaching and learning.
Sue, with an undergraduate degree in Elementary Education, discovered her aptitude for technology adoption in the classroom. She pursued an MA in Instructional Technology and Instructional Systems at UCF, interned with UCFâs Center for Distributed Learning (CDL), and has been an instructional designer with UCF since 2001. Her research interests include quality in online courses, professional development for online teaching, and mobile technologies in education. Sue has also served as a conference track reviewer and delivered special topic courses for prominent organizations like EDUCAUSE, ELI, AASCU, and OLC.
Tina Calandrino, a native Floridian, brings over 25 years of experience as an educator in higher learning. Her early work with computer writing centers ignited an interest in practical educational applications of technology. Her current research interests in online learning encompass Competency-Based Education, Faculty Development, and Micro-Learning.
Dr. Efren de la Mora, who joined the team in April 2023, possesses a multidisciplinary background with a bachelor's in information systems and a master's in learning technologies from the University of Guadalajara, Mexico. He earned his doctoral degree in education with a specialization in instructional design and technology from UCF. His postdoctoral research at Rosen College of Hospitality Management focused on designing instruction and curriculum. His research interests include multimedia learning, learner creativity, innovation, entrepreneurship, motivation, and engagement.
Aimee, holding a Doctor of Education degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a specialization in Instructional Design and Technology from the University of Cincinnati, joined the CDL team in 2011. She previously served as a team lead, overseeing the Quality Initiative and personnel management. Her research interests include online discussion strategies and the intersection of technology and gender.
Dr. Charlotte joined UCFâs Center for Distributed Learning in 2017. Her extensive academic background includes an Ed.D. in Instructional Design, an MA in Instructional Design and Technology, an MA in TESOL, and a BA in Psychology. Her career began with teaching elementary students in South Korea, followed by five years as a faculty member and curriculum coordinator at UCF Globalâs English Language Institute. Her research interests focus on social presence, student anxiety in online learning, and the integration of emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Dr. Rohan Jowallah brings over twenty years of experience in education across various levels, from elementary to university. He holds an Ed.D. in Language and Literacy in Education from the University of Sheffield, England, and an M.Ed. Rohan has presented at international conferences, published peer-reviewed articles, and authored a book chapter, with ongoing work towards further publications.
Grace, joining the Instructional Design team in May 2023, holds a Master of Science in Information Studies and a Graduate Certificate in Information Architecture from Florida State University, along with a Master of Arts in Womenâs Studies from the University of Alabama and a Bachelor of Arts in English and Political Science from Birmingham-Southern College. Her background as an academic librarian for 16 years, specializing in teaching information literacy and research skills at the university level, provides a unique perspective.
Dr. Denise Lowe, with an Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership, Higher Education, an M.Ed. in Guidance and Counseling, and a B.S. in Psychology, is also a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). Her interest in instructional design stems from her experiences as an online educator and student. Her work at UCF is driven by a desire to create learning environments that foster student and faculty growth. Denise previously served as an Instructional Design Team Lead from 2009-2018, overseeing strategic initiatives including faculty development. She also teaches as an adjunct lecturer in the LEAD Scholars Academy and the Nicholson School of Communication and Media. Her research interests include faculty development, emotional intelligence and leadership, and online design and teaching effectiveness.
Debra, who joined the team in August 2018, earned her Masterâs degree in Instructional Design and Technology and a Graduate Certificate in e-Learning from UCF. She previously managed the Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) training program for over five years, working with subject matter experts to design and deliver online and face-to-face safety training courses, ensuring regulatory compliance. Her research interests include blended learning for training environments, gamification strategies, and emerging technologies like augmented reality.
Roslyn, a member of the Center for Distributed Learning since 2018, possesses over 20 years of experience as an educator in diverse settings. She holds a BA in mathematics, an MS in secondary education, and a PhD in curriculum and instruction. Roslyn's expertise includes designing and teaching online courses, conducting faculty development, researching educational initiatives, evaluating educational programs, and developing large-scale performance assessments.
Dr. Jo Ann Smith, an instructional designer with over 20 years of experience in higher education, holds a Ph.D. in Education with a specialization in instructional design, an MA in Instructional Technology, and a BA in English from UCF. Her career has focused on faculty development across disciplines and the development of online programs, including pioneering the first fully online graduate program in research administration. She has a strong record of national and international presentations and publications.
Amy Sugar, an Associate Instructional Designer at CDL, holds an M.A. in Instructional Design and Technology from UCF and a B.A. Her prior experience includes leading the Instructional Design & Technology Team at Rollins College, adjunct teaching at Rollins, and teaching elementary music in Orange County Public Schools.
Nancy has been an instructional designer at UCF since 2000. She holds an M.A. in Educational Technology from UCF and a B.S. in Business Education. Before her tenure at UCF, she taught business education for 13 years in the public school system and has worked as an adjunct instructor for Florida Virtual School, Valencia Community College, and UCF.
Florence, a full-time member of the Instructional Design team since March 2021, focuses on pedagogical faculty support. Previously, she was the Professional Development Team Lead at the University of the West Indies, where she was involved in faculty development, coaching, mentoring, and the design and development of online and blended courses. With over 20 years of experience in education, Florence has taught online and in-person classes in public and private university settings. She serves as an editorial member for several higher education publications related to eLearning advancements. Her research interests include quality online course design and the impact of emerging technologies on teaching and learning.
Dr. Shelly Wyatt joined UCF's Center for Distributed Learning as a full-time instructional designer in November 2016. Prior to this, she spent over 15 years teaching humanities courses at various colleges. Shelly earned her bachelor's degree in humanities, a master's of liberal studies degree, and her PhD in Education (Instructional System Design) from UCF.
Dr. Baiyun Chen, a Senior Instructional Designer, leads the Personalized Adaptive Learning (PAL) instructional designers. She designs and delivers faculty professional development programs and teaches graduate courses on Instructional Systems Design. Her team collaborates closely with faculty to develop adaptive learning courses that personalize instruction and maximize student learning through digital courseware. Her research interests focus on instructional strategies in online and blended STEM teaching, professional development for online teaching, and the application of adaptive technologies in education.
Joseph Lloyd, an Instructional Designer at UCF's CDL, holds a BS in Information Technology and an MEd in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on Mathematics. Before joining CDL, Joseph taught for twelve years in public schools and served as an Educational Technology Facilitator.
Rebecca McNulty, an instructional designer at UCF's CDL, collaborates with faculty to create engaging, research-driven digital learning experiences. She holds a PhD in English and has extensive experience designing, developing, and teaching courses across multiple modalities. At UCF, she plays a key role in initiatives focused on artificial intelligence, open education, and adaptive learning.
James R. Paradiso is a senior instructional designer at the University of Central Florida.
Jessica Tojo, an Instructional Designer at UCF's CDL, earned a B.S. degree in Early Childhood Education and taught elementary school for eight years. Her interest in enhancing learning through technology led her to pursue an M.A. in Educational Technology from UCF.
The Role of Instructional Designers at UCF
The Instructional Design Team at UCF plays a pivotal role in promoting the quality of online instruction across the university. They offer a cadre of services to faculty, acting as crucial partners in the transition of effective face-to-face lessons to online environments. When faculty members set learning goals for their online students and wish to brainstorm ideas with passionate online learning experts, instructional designers are the professionals who shine. Faculty who have successfully completed specific courses such as IDL6543, DLI7836, Essentials of Online Teaching (with an earned Quality designation), OFRA, Teaching with Lecture Capture (TLC), or Effective Teaching with Video (ETV) are eligible to be paired with an experienced Instructional Designer, ensuring a high level of pedagogical and technical support.
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