MIT 500-Instructional Systems Design- Theory and Research

Context and Conditions: The self-instructional module, Understanding GroupWise for New Hanover County Personnelwas completed in the fall of 2005 under the guidance of Dr. Mahnaz Moallem. A classmate and I worked together to complete this project. The purpose of this self-instructional module was to train New Hanover County teachers on how to use the many capabilities of GroupWise email. During the completion of this project, my team member and I worked with Mrs. Karen Greene, who has been serving as the Science Resource Specialist for New Hanover County Schools. We also worked with several teachers and administrators of New Hanover High School to conduct a formative evaluation of the materials. Other than print services, no budget was allotted to this project. We were allowed one semester to complete this project.

Scope: In responding to the request of Karen to resolve the problem of teachers missing important e-mails, our group created a self instructional module teaching essential tools for using GroupWise email. The project was designed systematically, using the Dick, Carey, and Carey (2005) model. Within the instruction, we also utilized Mayer’s (1996) model of meaningful learning: SOI (Selecting, Organizing, and Integrating). Upon completion, Karen sent the documents to be printed and bound, and the module is currently in use.

Role: My roles in this project included designer, developer, and evaluator. My teammate and I shared the responsibilities for conducting a front-end analysis, identifying goals and objectives, creating the instructional materials, analyzing the materials and effectiveness of the instruction, and revising the materials based on the result of the evaluations.

Reflection: By utilizing the ISD model by Dick, Carey, and Carey (2005), my partner and I ensured that “no stone was left unturned” within the design and development of the instructional module. We thoroughly analyzed the environment and our learners, defined the need and revised the materials continuously. Based upon the result of our formative evaluations, I believe we turned in a product that was professionally designed. I also learned how to present the information in a meaningful and memorable way. I hope to apply the knowledge and skills derived from this project to my future job as an Instructional Designer.