Many people may be unaware of the kind of jobs that are available in educational technology since this is a relatively new field. Career opportunities with an educational technology degree are varied and offer a number of different types of work environments. For example, some positions involve working closely with people while others may offer more isolation. Here are five of the most interesting jobs in the educational technology field.
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Distance Learning Director
The director of distance or online learning oversees the online program for a college or university. The director works with faculty to ensure course formats are uniform and with department heads to review and revise the school’s online programs. The distance learning director probably also participates in long-term planning with department heads, deans and faculty. The director might also be in charge of faculty training and offer tech support to faculty.
Curriculum Specialist
Also known as instructional coordinators, people in this position look at teaching techniques and curriculum and how they can be improved. A degree in educational technology means this person would specialize in technology-based curriculum and teaching solutions. They may help design curriculum or make recommendations about changes to the curriculum. This position usually requires a master’s degree. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job of curriculum specialist should grow at a faster than average rate in the years ahead.
Multimedia Designer
A multimedia designer combines graphic design skills with an interest in education to create computer animations, video and other types of multimedia to train and educate. They might develop a curriculum in public schools or in a private business setting, helping to create training material for employees. Preparation to work as a multimedia designer might involve getting a bachelor’s degree in graphic design followed by a master’s degree in instructional technology.
Technology Coordinator
A technology coordinator manages the technology for a district or a school. Depending on the specifics within that school or district, duties of a technology coordinator could range from budgeting, equipment purchase and applying for grants to training faculty to overseeing student records and more. The technology coordinator must stay abreast of current technological developments and trends in the field and may also perform minor equipment repairs and maintain the server. In some schools or districts, this person may be the only staff member with an extensive background in technology.
Teacher
From a K-12 classroom to specialists in training and development at private companies, some people may pursue a degree in educational technology with the intention of using it in the classroom. In schools, these teachers would be well-equipped to integrate software, apps and other educational material into the curriculum. At private companies, they might explore ways that software can better train employees for greater expertise and efficiency.
There are many opportunities for jobs with an educational technology degree with settings ranging from public school classrooms to corporate boardrooms to universities and nonprofits. Technological literacy for educators is becoming increasingly important, and as technology continues to make inroads into education, the field of educational technology is likely to keep growing and changing.
