RESEARCH STATEMENT

Jen Johnston, Ph.D.

 

My research centers on optimizing the management of instructional design projects across diverse sectors such as healthcare education and corporate training. I strive to identify and promote effective approaches that ensure successful project outcomes. Specifically, I am interested in understanding how instructional designers value and apply various project management knowledge, skills, and abilities to enhance instructional design practices.

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Doctoral Research Focus

My doctoral research explores the impact of project management strategies on instructional design success. By examining the roles of context, processes, and people, I aim to develop a comprehensive understanding of how these elements influence the efficiency and effectiveness of instructional design project management. The ultimate goal is to formulate a robust framework that future instructional designers can use to navigate the evolving challenges within the field.

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Practical Implications

The findings from my research will be translated into actionable recommendations for instructional design projects across multiple sectors. These insights will benefit administrators, educational professionals, and stakeholders by promoting successful learning outcomes. I envision that this work will lead to more efficient and effective resource utilization, ultimately improving educational experiences for students at all levels.

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Publications and Contributions

My contributions to the field include several key publications that provide insights into industry trends and best practices. Notably, I am the lead author of chapters in the Educational Media and Technology Yearbook and have co-authored papers in prominent journals. These works lay the groundwork for future exploration and demonstrate the progress made in integrating project management principles into instructional design.

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Future Research Directions

My forthcoming research will be conducted in two phases. The first phase involves surveying instructional design professionals and analyzing successful projects from the past decade. This data will inform the second phase, where I will design and implement a training program incorporating best practices for managing instructional design projects. This program will be tailored to meet the specific needs of various sectors, taking into account factors such as cultural beliefs and privacy concerns in the healthcare sector.

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Broader Impact and Goals

Through this research, I aim to contribute to the broader knowledge base of instructional design project management, providing new perspectives on achieving successful outcomes in different contexts. My long-term objective is to develop an evidence-based methodology for managing instructional design projects across various industries. This methodology will serve as a valuable resource for instructional designers, trainers, and educators, helping them create more effective projects and ultimately enhancing educational outcomes.

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This research presents an opportunity for funding agencies to invest in professional development initiatives tailored to instructional designers. By understanding their current perceptions and beliefs about project management, we can create targeted training opportunities that address their specific needs, ensuring they possess the skills necessary to manage projects successfully and contribute to positive project outcomes.