Rapidly changing technology is creating a rising demand for forward-thinking teachers, trainers, designers and leaders who can leverage these tools effectively in diverse learning environments. One way to prepare for an ever-changing digital world? Pursue a graduate certificate in educational technology leadership along with a micro-credential and a master’s in education and human development. Three credentials, two years, major career impact!
Through the George Washington University Graduate School of Education and Human Development (GSEHD)’s new personalized master’s program, students are prepared to harness the power of technology to be at the forefront of the educational technology landscape. Whether you’re an experienced educator or someone looking to make a career change, you’ll be equipped with the skills and capabilities needed to advance in educational environments filled with proven and emerging technologies.
What is educational technology?
Educational technology (or ed tech as it is more colloquially known) is the use of digital tools, platforms, instructional design models and resources to enhance teaching and learning. Wherever human performance and learning take place is a place where the educational environment can be transformed by technology. Ed tech leaders can find a classroom anywhere: within a K-12 or higher education institution, a corporate office, a military training center and more.
What does the future of ed tech look like?
Individuals who pursue a career in educational technology are often interested in improving student outcomes and making learning more accessible. And in today’s increasingly digital world, it’s difficult to find a job in learning or education that doesn’t involve technology. For example, a middle school classroom’s needs may differ from a new employee’s onboarding needs, but they both require pedagogical principles and technical applications.
In a recent article from Forbes, the author notes, “"While AI can personalize lessons and track student performance, it can’t replace the human side of education. Teachers mentor, motivate, and adapt — making critical, real-time decisions that shape how students learn and grow." As a result, education is a field that will continue to need leaders even as AI usage becomes more widespread.
This is backed by data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics*, showing a growing career pathway for experienced leaders who can create digital experiences that support learning and teaching.
What can one do with a degree focused on ed tech?
Most people who pursue this field have a curiosity about how different technologies—particularly exciting, emerging technologies—can be used within classroom instruction.
Some use it as an opportunity to move out of the classroom and into a district-wide role as an instructional coordinator, education technology specialist or chief technology officer. Others use it to advance their ability to drive educational innovation through technology integration and move into roles as an e-learning specialist, training and development manager or educational consultant.
Common employment settings for an educational technology leader include companies and organizations; K-12 schools and districts; colleges and universities; government agencies; and military environments.
What will I learn if I pursue GW's 3-in-1 master’s degree?
As part of the 3-in-1 personalized master’s degree, you’ll explore the latest research-based approaches to education, technology and leadership, addressing how we learn, educate and lead. Core courses in the educational technology concentration focus on emerging technology; trends and issues; computer applications and project management; and designing digital learning.
The asynchronous, online learning component of the personalized master’s degree makes it possible to integrate coursework with your busy professional and personal schedules and faculty are readily available at convenient times. Your peers will come from all types of learning environments, facilitating an enhanced co-learning experience where you have hands-on leadership opportunities within your coursework and assignments that are immediately applicable to your day-to-day work.
Is the individualized master's an alternative to a master’s in education?
The individualized master’s degree is a master’s in education—it just takes a different format than most traditional master’s degrees. Throughout the 30-credit program, you’ll be able to diversify your interests while achieving tangible outcomes. In the time it would take to receive one master’s from another program, students gain three credentials. And with a broader understanding of the educational technology landscape comes more diverse career opportunities.
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If you are interested in the intersection of education and technology, the personalized master’s degree at GSEHD can upskill your knowledge and capabilities.
Learn more about the 3-in-1 Personalized Master's Degree
*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Data: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/training-and-development-managers.htm, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/training-and-development-specialists.htm