Instructional Development vs. Instructional Design
Models of Instructional Development
Needs Assessment
Job Analysis
Evaluation

Educational leadership demands that we observe, record, synthesize, and evaluate before making major decisions. This process is perhaps even more important when new programs or initiatives are being considered. EDER 675 Principles of Instructional Development represents an opportunity to study this process.

Of particular interest to me is the concept of the "gap" in regards to needs assessment. Identifying the gap between what actually happens and what we want to happen is the first step in school improvement. Without identifying the criterion, we have no direction for our improvement efforts. Identifying the gap and communicating that gap to stakeholders is made easier when a needs assessment plan is in place.

The evaluation of existing programs is also enhanced when the principles of this course are adhered to. In the context of the schoolhouse, I have often overlooked the importance of clearly stating the purpose, target audience, key questions, protocol, data analysis, and timeline when evaluating programs. Producing an effective evaluation plan template simply provides me with another valuable tool.