Unlocking Professional Growth: Pursuing a Master’s Degree in Instructional Coaching with Suzanne Becking

Ask The Tech Coach

Welcome to "Ask the Tech Coach," a podcast for Instructional Coaches and Digital Learning Leaders. In this episode of Ask the Tech Coach, host Jeffrey Bradbury speaks with Suzanne Becking from Fort Hayes State University about the development of a new master's program aimed at instructional coaches and digital learning leaders. They discuss the importance of professional development in educational technology, the ideal candidates for the program, and the impact of ISTE standards on teaching practices. Suzanne shares insights from her experiences in the field and emphasizes the need for collaboration among educators to support one another in their professional growth. If you would like to be a part of future podcasts and share your thoughts, please contact the podcast. We would love to have you join the show.

Question of the Week

Our favorite part of recording a live podcast each week is participating in the great conversations that happen on our live chat, on social media, and in our comments section. This week’s question is:

What are the key components and benefits of pursuing a Master's degree in Instructional Coaching, and how does it impact educators' professional growth?

Conversation Takeaways

• The importance of having qualifications in instructional coaching.
• The need for instructional coaches to support teachers effectively.
• Collaboration is key in the learning process for educators.
• The program at Fort Hayes State is designed for those looking to grow in their careers.
• ISTE standards play a crucial role in shaping educational technology programs.
• Real-world experiences enhance the understanding of instructional coaching.
• The program is flexible and caters to various educational backgrounds.
• Financial considerations are important when pursuing a master's degree.
• The future of instructional coaching involves adapting to emerging technologies.
• Continuous professional development is essential for educators.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Instructional Coaching and Technology
• 05:40 Developing a Master's Program for Instructional Coaches
• 10:54 The Ideal Candidate for Instructional Coaching
• 15:37 Collaboration and Learning in Instructional Coaching
• 19:09 The Future of Instructional Technology Coaching
• 23:11 Insights from Building the Program
• 27:40 Encouragement for Aspiring Coaches

About our Guest:

Suzanne Becking holds a Ph.D. in Education Studies from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, emphasizing Leadership and Higher Education. Her doctoral research focused on the teaching practices of educators who incorporate technology into their instruction. Currently, she serves as a Professor in the Department of Advanced Education Programs at Fort Hays State University in Hays, Kansas, where she oversees the Master of Instructional Technology (MIT) program. Within the MIT program, students can choose from three concentrations: Instructional Design, Technology, and Coaching. With a decade of experience as a Google for Education Certified Trainer and five years as an ISTE Certified Educator, Dr. Becking is dedicated to supporting educators in integrating technology effectively. In 2011, she joined a team of Google trainers, offering Professional Development to Kansas school districts as they adopted technology in their classrooms and schools. Her primary goal is to empower educators and school leaders to utilize technology to enhance learning environments and student outcomes. In 2022, Dr. Becking’s team put together two new emphases within the Master of Instructional Technology program. These are Instructional Design (MID) and Instructional Coaching (MIC). The first student graduated from the Instructional Coaching program Summer 2024 and one completed the Instructional Design Masters and added a certificate for Instructional Coaching, completing her program in the Fall of 2023. Currently there are seven students in the MIC program. The Certificate can be obtained by individuals with a master’s degree who complete 9 credit hours from the program.

Links of Interest

• LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/suzannebecking
• Facebook: Facebook.com/suzannebecking
• X: x.com/sbecking

About Fort Hays State University (FHSU)

Instructional Coaching Information: https://www.fhsu.edu/aep/instructional-technology/mit-instructional-coach-program-information

• FHSU QuickFacts: https://www.fhsu.edu/about/QuickFacts/
• Advanced Education Programs Department (AEP)
• Website: fhsu.edu
• AEP Website: fhsu.edu/aep
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/school/fort-hays-state-university/posts/?feedView=all
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/forthaysstate
• Twitter: https://x.com/forthaysstate
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/forthaysstate
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/forthaysstate/

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• Twitter: @AskTheTechCoach
• Email: [e-mail]

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The Teach Better Podcast Network is dedicated to supporting the entire school ecosystem through in-depth conversations around topics you care about. Covering a variety of areas in education, each podcast aims to support educators in the field toward creating and maintaining a progressive, student-focused classroom. Check out the recent episodes, subscribe, and learn more about the variety of shows!

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