The Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Instructional Technology began offering courses in the Fall 2001 semester. The Ed.D. is based upon the understanding of education settings (schools and beyond) as learning communities immersed in a world of technology within which:
students are nurtured and challenged to meet the high expectations established for them;
community leaders are engaged in these communities to support them; and
teachers, supervisors, and administrators must take the lead in integrating technology into these communities through continuous professional development.
Thus, the program focuses on the development of instructional technology expertise to meet the present and future needs of technology integration in instruction across the educational spectrum.
The Ed.D. Advantage
Improving technology access for students, teachers, and organizations and developing effective strategies for technology integration are both critical factors within educational reform in Maryland.
Effectively using technology to engage and foster higher-level thinking and problem-solving skills is a critical link to improving student learning. In schools, technology can help teachers deliver instruction and target student needs more efficiently. Technology serves to foster communication with outside experts, peers, students, community members, and parents. Yet, challenges remain, and use is limited.
Within the business community, incorporating technology into daily transactions has revolutionized business processes. Meetings have become more effective through the use of audiovisuals and multimedia presentations. Video conferencing allows executives to conduct business "face-to-face" with partners across the globe. Interactive and distance-based instructional training has provided innovative methods to enhance staff development. Technology use within corporate learning settings continues to grow at a rapid pace.
Extensive professional development is required to integrate technology into the curriculum and workplace in dynamic ways that increase learning and productivity. Reducing the cost of equipping schools and businesses requires a knowledge of technologies, software, and implementation strategies.
Successful Ed.D. students develop and refine the skills that schools and businesses need. Current Ed.D. students are leaders in their fields and continue to develop as technology integration experts.