Week 1

After scouring the internet for interesting blogs dealing with instructional design and technology (IDT), I've found 3 that I believe will help me in my journey, Langevin Learning Services Blog (http://www.langevin.com/blog/), The Instructional Design & Development Blog at DePaul University (http://www.iddblog.org), and John Shook's Lean Management Column (http://www.lean.org/shook/).

Langevin Learning Services presents helpful and informative information on engaging students. They have various categories such as: adding excitement to your class, advanced instructional techniques, how adults learn, and presentation skills. All of the categories present a well-rounded view on the "softer" topics near and dear to a corporate trainer. Their last few posts focused on "difficult learners" and offered advice on engaging these types of students in your classes. This topic is approached positively and insightfully and can assist many trainers in understanding and overcoming this type of learner.

The Instructional Design & Development Blog at DePaul University (IDD) compliments the Langevin blog. This blog appears to focus more on the technological aspects of IDT. Recently, their blogs have focused on Learning Management Systems (LMS), on-line learning, and presentation of materials, to name a few. As my company moves more towards on-line, e-learning modules, I believe IDD will help me by providing tips on constructing more effective learning materials that take advantage of technology. IDD also lists links to 3 additional resources in the realm of digital media. I haven't had time to check out the links yet, but they sound like a great resource for the future.

The last blog doesn't focus on IDT, but it does focus within my specialty of training: lean. I have been following and using the Lean Enterprise Institute (LEI) for quite a few years now. John Shook's Lean Management Column offers insight and examples on various lean implementations and thoughts. Shook has published several books, most recently Managing to Learn. He promotes learning organizations and culture changes, which are important aspects for an IDT professional to consider when creating classes and curricula. Over the years, I have found myself reading his newsletters and using his information in classes I've taught to help explain and/or provide additional examples outside of my industry to help students grasp the concepts taught. Shook states in his last column:

Lean management is very much about asking questions and trying things, or encouraging others to try things. Lean management itself is not much about providing the right answer but it is very much about asking the right question.

This quote is how I view effective instruction and teaching. It's using the Socratic method in helping change culture. You learn by formulating your own ideas and doing, not being told what to do.

I wish you all good luck in your IDT journeys. I hope to be able to share my thoughts, insights, and resources with others and help foster discussion on various learning theories and methods.

Have fun, learn, and make a difference!