As instructional design and technology (IDT) professionals, we are expected to remain up to date in our knowledge and skills in key areas such as learning, instruction, performance improvement, media, and technology. Both scholars and practitioners in IDT achieve this by joining professional societies, attending conferences, participating in formal and informal networking events, reading papers, doing research, publishing their findings, and contributing to scholarship by evaluating other people’s work (Klein & Rushby, 2018).
The benefits of being a member of professional societies can include “journal subscriptions, annual meetings and conferences, employment assistance, and networking opportunities” (Klein & Rushby, 2018, p. 227). By participating in online forums and social networking, such as LinkedIn and Clubhouse, instructional design and technology practitioners can grow in their knowledge and skills and expand their professional network.
To remain current and competent, it is essential that IDT professionals stay current. Participating consistently in the world of instructional design and technology can help practitioners to advance professionally.
How do you currently, or might you, grow your professional learning and network? What societies, conferences, social networks/groups, journals, etc. would you recommend to other IDT practitioners?
References
Klein, J. D., & Rushby, N. (2018). Getting involved in instructional design and technology: Recommendations for Professional Development. In R. A. Reiser & J. V. Dempsey (Eds.), Trends and issues in instructional design and technology (4thed.) (pp. 219-228). Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc.
Andrew R. Claassen 