In a two-day event held on October 23-24, 2023, at the College of Education Building ED Room 305 and 306, CTU Main Campus, Dr. Cristie Ann Jaca, a distinguished faculty member and University Director of the Center for Communication and Media (CCM), spearheaded a transformative workshop as part of her 2023 GAA Funded Research Study on CTU Training Needs Assessment and the Development of Online Instructional Material.
The primary objectives of this engaging training-workshop were multifaceted. Firstly, it served as a platform for the unveiling of the results stemming from the GAA Funded Research on CTU’s Training Needs Assessment and the concurrent Development of Online Instructional Material. Dr. Jaca skillfully shared insights, shedding light on the intricacies of course material development, particularly emphasizing the crucial role of Instructional Materials (IMs) as integral components of the deliverables for this research project.
During the immersive two-day event, selected faculty members hailing from various CTU campuses actively participated in workshops designed to impart practical knowledge on crafting effective Instructional Materials. Dr. Jaca, a seasoned expert in her field, took center stage, offering guidance and expertise on the nuanced art of writing Instructional Materials.
She also emphasized the pivotal role of Instructional Materials, articulating how they provide the foundational information that shapes students’ experiences, learning journeys, and application of knowledge throughout a course. She underscored the versatility of IMs, serving as a dynamic tool for educators to present information in diverse formats, thereby aiding students in comprehension and retention.
Furthermore, Dr. Jaca highlighted the essence of producing instructional materials as a means to facilitate the teaching-learning process, fostering an environment conducive to knowledge absorption and application.
The crescendo of the training-workshop culminated in a tangible impact on the participants. Dr. Jaca ingeniously embedded the acquired knowledge into the fabric of the attendees’ skill sets. To gauge the effectiveness of the workshop, participants were tasked with securing an Instructional Material, creating a hands-on opportunity for them to apply and reinforce their newfound insights.
Dr. Cristie Ann Jaca’s visionary leadership and the dynamic nature of the workshop have undoubtedly paved the way for a heightened understanding of training needs assessment and the development of online instructional material, leaving an indelible mark on the educational landscape of CTU.
Words by Almie Mata