Learning technologies
This field of study attracts students from several different professional disciplines. Licensed teachers pursue studies in this area to learn methods for integrating technology into their classrooms. Professionals in business and industry are attracted to the multimedia design and development coursework that focuses on software design. Individuals from both P-16 and business find this field useful for understanding the effective design and delivery as well as integration of distance learning environments. Ph.D. students are attracted to the research possibilities and the potential to become a scholar in learning technologies. Because this program features collaborative instruction from three nationally ranked departments within the College — Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Psychology, and Work and Human Resource Education — participants will benefit from a rich, broad-based curriculum and faculty members with both research-based and hands-on expertise.
Degree program information in learning technologies
- Ph.D.: for experienced professionals who want to develop advanced research, knowledge, and leadership skills in their chosen field
- M.A.: a research-based master's degree for individuals who want to develop research and teaching skills, and advanced knowledge in their chosen field
New! Course changes and additions
BIE and WHRE to CI: Course changes effective Spring 2010
The following program links will take you to Student Services
- M.Ed./professional studies: for licensed teachers and other professionals interested in gaining advanced knowledge and skills with specific emphasis in instructional systems and technology
- Certificates: for individuals wanting a shorter professional program in three areas of technology enhanced learning: K–12 technology integration, multimedia design and development, and online distance learning.
Featured program
Certificate
in online distance learning:
The education landscape is changing with K-12 students enrolling
in online classes outside of their home school districts.
Teachers, business people, and others affected by these
changes can prepare for this dynamic trend by learning how
to design and deliver effective courses online. Certificate
coursework includes face-to-face and online learning opportunities.
You will succeed in these courses no matter how much or
little experience you have with technology! To find out
more or to arrange for an on-site workshop on using technology
in K-12 schools, please contact Aaron Doering at
adoering@umn.edu or
612-625-1073.
Faculty
- Aaron Doering,
Ph.D.
My teaching and research interests relate to the development of effective distance learning environments, technology integration in K-12 preservice and inservice settings, and the innovative use of technology to support teaching and learning. -
Charles D. Miller,
Ph.D.
My work involves bridging the gap between learning, aesthetic design, and research-driven development to generate opportunities for transforming the nature of instruction. -
Cassandra
Scharber, Ph.D.
My research explores the nexus of literacy, power, and technology and the possibilities technology offers in aiding the transformation of teaching and learning. - Jennifer Cherry, Teaching specialist
Alumni in action
Tom (TJ) Reinartz
When
I began the instructional systems and technology program, I
recognized that new technologies offered opportunities and posed
new questions for teachers and learners in all academic domains.
As an English teacher, I was particularly interested in how
language and literacy would evolve and change as these new media
entered the lives of students. Though my research interests
continue to evolve, I'm currently interested in the relationship
between computer media, the processing of information, and distance
learning. In addition, I continue to explore the emergence and
confluence of electronic and visual media, and the challenges
and opportunities that they create for teachers of English and
literacy. This was the focus of my dissertation.
As a student, I took most of my courses during the evening hours as a part-time student. Nevertheless, I had a number of opportunities to teach, research, and present at conferences. For example, during the summer months, I teach preservice and practicing teachers introductory technology courses that help demonstrate and clarify the many uses of technology for their classrooms.
Selected presentations and publications
Reinartz Jr., T.J. (2004). Computer mediated literacy practices through communities of practice: An activity theory analysis. Unpublished doctoral thesis. University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN.
Hooper, S., & Reinartz, T. J. (in press). Educational multimedia. In R. Reiser & J. Dempsey (Eds.), Trends and issues in instructional design and technology. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Merrill/Prentice Hall.
Hokanson, B., & Reinartz, T. (2000). Computers and poetry: Research into their symbiosis. Paper presented at the annual conference of the Association of Educational Communications and Technology, Long Beach, CA, February. [Manuscript in preparation.]
Reinartz, T. (2000). Art, poetry, and instructional media. Poster session presented at the Educational Media World conference, Montreal, Canada. June.
More info
Professional organizations
Updated August 2007
