In my year-long Vollstedt intern position, I served as a Learning Resources Specialist with the library’s Data Services department. In this position, I’ve gotten the opportunity to create many different learning objects. For example, I got to create LibGuide pages on how to download and install software and integrated development environments (IDEs) like R and R Studio. I also had the opportunity to create modules in Articulate Rise on how to use databases’ clipboard functions or how to add items to a Zotero library. Culminating in all that I learned was my creation of a module on how to use Microsoft Support to find documentation on converting or saving a file as a PDF. Through all of these projects, I learned a lot about instructional design.

Instructional design, in short, is the creation of learning objects. To create learning objects, I’ve realized that you have to be ready to conduct research, effectively communicate with subject matter experts (SMEs) and clients, and have a desire to help others. By communicating with my SMEs and clients, I conducted needs analyses by asking insightful questions about the learning gap I was trying to fill. I also learned to make the information I provided clear and concise. I was not able to speak with students directly to get a good idea of their gaps, so I had to make sure I was asking the right questions of my SMEs and clients. Because of this, I realized early on that feedback was an essential part of the instructional design process, and one I appreciated greatly.

I am incredibly grateful for the skills I have developed, and traits I have strengthened, through this internship. I have become a much more effective communicator, I can take feedback with grace and push back as needed, and I have much more empathy for the end user/learner when creating learning objects. I have also learned how to use the popular ID tool Articulate Rise to create modules and courses from templates and from scratch. This internship has helped me crystallize that I am passionate about instructional design. I am very proud of the work I’ve been able to produce thus far and am excited to see what I will be able to create in the future.

Happy Summer! We have enjoyed having you join us for our workshops and events this year and are pleased to announce our summer offerings.

This summer, Data Services is excited for you to join us for our summer book clubs. That’s right, this summer you have the chance to experience one (or both!) of TWO data book clubs! Whether you are looking to learn something brand new or get a refresh, these book clubs are for you.  

Learning Statistics with R is an engaging guide that simplifies the complexities of statistics using the programming language R, making it accessible for beginners and insightful for seasoned learners. This book is perfect for anyone looking to enhance their statistical skills and data analysis expertise! Topics include hypothesis testing, ANOVA, and linear regressions; click here for the complete schedule.. Learning Statistics with R will be hosted Tuesdays from Noon to 1:30, June 25 through September 10 in the Price Science Commons or over Zoom. Learn more and register here!

R for Data Science is a must-read for anyone looking to master data analysis. The book offers a comprehensive guide to data manipulation, visualization, and modeling using R. Perfect for beginners and experienced users alike, it will transform the way you handle data! Topics include visualizing data, transforming data, and web scraping; click here to see the full schedule. R for Data Science will be hosted Thursdays from Noon to 1:30, June 27 through September 12 in the Price Science Commons or over Zoom. Learn more and register here!

Feel free to attend each session to dig deep into the entire book or register for the series and just attend the sessions that you are interested in! These two books pair well to give you a handle on practical uses for R in statistics and data science. 

We look forward to seeing you there!