As the academic year reaches its end, what better time to deliver the final blog post in what’s been a thoroughly enjoyable series. Much like my blogging experience, the academic year has been a memorable one. I feel like I’ve grown as both a person and student over the last 7 months, and I’m much better off for having chosen to do a masters programme. With that in mind I’ve decided it would be best to reflect back on the whole experience, and pick what I believe are the biggest things I’ve learned. Below is a list of the three most important things I’ve learned on the course.
- Theories and Models
Over the course of the year, I’ve been lucky enough to be taught all about the theoretical aspect of technical communication and e-learning. While I undoubtedly prefer hands on practical work, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of having theoretical knowledge. Without theory the practical side of my work would struggle, so it’s crucial that I’ve been able to gain knowledge of the most important theories and models. When I look back throughout the year, I’ve been able to apply the theoretical knowledge gained in lectures to real life practical assignments. The main theories that spring to mind are the ones learned in the instructional design classes. The theories of Robert Gagne for example are ones that I will use for the rest of my life if I end up working in instructional design or e-learning. Learning about theories such as the 5-component guide to writing performance objectives, benefited me in a range of modules and not just the instructional design ones. It’s safe to say that I’ll be keeping all my lecture slides in a safe place! Most of the content in these slides will be the building blocks for any courses I design in the future.
- Software and Tools
Learning to use different software and tools has been a common feature of the master’s programme. In my undergrad I was exposed to a very limited range of software and tools. As a result of this the only programs I felt I could actually use properly were Microsoft Word and Powerpoint!! As you can imagine these aren’t going to be very beneficial when looking for a job. This time round though I’ve been pleasantly surprised. I’ve been able to gain first-hand experience in using software and tools that are actually used by technical communicators and e-learning developers. I’ve been able to use these tools to complete a number of projects which helps me see how they are used in real life. Tools such as photoshop have allowed me to improve any graphics I work on and make a difference to my projects. Other valuable software packages include the likes of Adobe Dreamweaver and Storyline. When looking at job openings online it’s usually expected that applicants have experience in using such software. Again, I feel I am much better prepared to get a job now as a result of this experience.
- Professional expectations
Perhaps the biggest thing I’ve learned all year is what will be expected of me as a professional. One of the major strengths of my course is that the lecturers place emphasis on getting you prepared for the real world. It’s all well and good sitting in a lecture and listening to someone speak, but you need to have experience of doing work that will be relevant in the future. Thankfully I feel like I am very well prepared in this regard. Even down to aspects such as time management, I feel like I know what to expect when I’m starting a new job. I’ve often struggled with my time management in the past, but having to constantly juggle a number of assignments at once has forced me to take ownership of my planning. I’ve also been able to see what sort of standards my work will have to adhere to if I want to have any hope of being successful. I’ve been able to learn from a range of professionals through the many guest lectures we’ve had this year. Hearing from people who excel in their fields has opened my eyes to what will be expected of me if I work in a similar role.
Although I only listed 3 aspects in this blog it’s important to note that I have learned tonnes more than this. I simply had to pick 3 because the list would go on forever otherwise. I think that in itself speaks volumes for how much I’ve learned this year. To anyone thinking of pursuing a career in technical communication and e-learning, I’d urge them to consider looking at the masters programme in The University of Limerick!
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