Ever wonder what the alumni say?
Comments from Annual Alumni Survey

Below are some quotes from alumni of the SJSU Instructional Technology Department:

• "The IT Department has helped me realize the importance of Instructional Design in resolving educational problems. The IT department helped me become a better teacher and person by recognizing the importance of encouraging improvement in myself and others by building upon their accomplishments. That is, projects, papers, web pages, etc. are works-in-progress that are good but can be improved."
• "My career has evolved since receiving a masters degree to take on new responsibilities at my school. The materials produced professionally are of a much higher quality than previously and there are more options to present material as a result."
• "It helped shape my career goals and aspirations. It also allowed me to meet interesting people who shared similar professional goals and ideals."
• "Professors very encouraging, positive, helpful - interaction with class participants - self empowerment, confidence, knowledge gained through the program."

- Quotes from Annual IT Alumni Survey

An International Student tells His Story: Ernest Koh

"The IT MA program at San Jose State University was recommended to me by the Deputy Director of the Curriculum Development Institute of Singapore (CDIS) then. My initial goal for taking the IT MA program was to prepare myself to work in the Educational Technology Division (ETD)at the Ministry of Education, Singapore, to help implement the IT Master Plan for Singapore schools then.

Upon my graduation from the IT MA program in December 1998, I found a job with an e-learning startup company in San Jose as its Senior Instructional Designer. I led a team of instructional designers, copywriters, graphic designers, and programmers. Emerson Power Transmission Corp., Microsoft, E*Trade, NCS Learn, K12.com were some of the clients I had worked with. The company grew in size and changed its name from Turbograd to Mentorix, and had offices in San Jose, and Atlanta.

Currently, I'm the Training Facilitator and Instructional Designer in the Distributed Learning Resource Center at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey. I facilitate a 5 week course that trains faculty members to design, develop, and deliver online courses; and assist in a 2 day course that trains faculty members to teach in a video conferencing classroom environment. I also provide one on one consultation for faculty members with funded projects to develop fully on- line courses.

The IT MA program has given me the knowledge and skills to work effectively in the e-learning and distance learning industry. The IT MA program with its excellent classes that provided me with lots of hands-on experience, together with an outstanding team of IT faculty members who gave me their personal guidance through in-person and written feedback, have prepared me well for the work I do then in the startup company and now at the Naval Postgraduate School. The IT MA program, and especially the IT faculty members have been an important part of my success in what I enjoy doing everyday at work!"

- Ernest Koh, Distributed Learning Resource Center, Naval Postgraduate School

"I just wanted you both to hear another IT success story and also wanted to thank you for the integral part you played in it. Less than two months after I graduated your IT program, I was offered a job as Director of Instructional Technology for K-5 at Harker! I accepted the position and am now getting aquainted with my new job. Although I don't officially start until June, I am currently juggling IT tasks with my 2nd grade teaching.

Thanks again for such an incredible experience and guiding me towards a new and exciting career!"

- Lisa Hirata, Harker Academy

"Participating in this cohort program has been one of the most challenging, intellectually stimulating, (often) frustrating and absolutely rewarding endevors on which I've ever embarked. I am consistently challenged and the personal and professional growth I've achieved far surpasses my expectations for myself or the program."

- Lon Walton - Gunderson Cohort

"When talking to potential students, I might mention that the program will challenge them, they'll get whacked!, perhaps many times. I would advise them to be aware of the time commitment, including summer classes and internship practicum requirements. They will learn to do very valuable instructional "things" that they had no idea they could do, and perhaps more importantly, should do. It has been hard work to this point but then I recall the words of Professor Nguyen, who told our semi-stressed class, "When gratefulness ends, suffering begins." It kind of gives the whole purpose perspective, at least for me. It has been hard, but I have learned an invaluable amount. Thanks for asking!"

- Laurie Kirk, Recent alumnus

"The Masters Program has provided me with information and tools that greatly improved my curriculum and instruction."

"You will never look at a 55 minute lesson plan the same again."

-Brandi Hucko, Recent alumnus

"The Masters Program is a lot of work. After all it is a Masters Program, my classmates remind me. The experience is worth it."

"The IT Department program provides excellent class choices and students are able to learn from a variety of teaching styles and methods. Excellent quality in professors, courses offered and practical course work."

"I wish I had a year sabbatical to apply everything I learned."

"I think that it has been an awesome accomplishment. In my professional life, I think that the degree has enhanced the way that I approach the workplace. In my personal life, the degree has helped me to meet people I wouldn't have otherwise met."

"As with any project of this magnitude, there have been many people who have supplied me with their myriad assets and talents in the process of developing and producing this tutorial. I am deeply grateful and blessed to have had the honor of working with wonderful faculty at San Jose State University."

It should be noted that after leaving San Jose State University, Dr. Andreatta pursued her doctoral degree at the University of San Francisco. She is currently a tenure-track faculty member at the University of Michigan.

- Dr. Pamela Andreatta - Assistant Professor, Department of Medical Education, University of Michigan