Instructional Design and Technology Qualifying Exam
Spring 2006
This is a CLOSED BOOK exam and all Honor Code restrictions are in place.
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You are expected to answer these questions from memory.
You may use a computer to type your answers and a dictionary or spell check program,
DO NOT use any other notes, people or resources during the written exam.
Please respond to the following questions as completely as possible in the time allowed.
No later than 2:30 p.m., provide the following to Terry Davis:
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a signed copy of this exam
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your answers
1. You read an article that discusses various definitions of the field throughout history.
Other articles that you have read also shed insight on who we are and what we do.
Consider both your own experience and your readings. What is your definition of
our field? Why?
2. There are many views of how learning occurs. You have read articles (Brown,
Collins, & Duguid, 1989; Gagne & Yekovich, 1993; Gallimore & Tharp, 1990;
Skinner, 1954) describing several key learning theories.
a. Compare and contrast the viewpoints addressed in the articles.
b. Describe how one or more of these theories will impact how you design
instruction.
3. Reeves (2000) suggests that instructional technology research must work toward
becoming more socially responsible.
a. Describe three problems with research in IT as indicated by Reeves.
b. Also, describe a potential research approach that could address some of those
concerns. How would such an approach alleviate the issues that Reeves has
highlighted?
4. As described by Gagne (1985) and Gagne, Briggs, and Wager (1992), what is the
origin of the nine events of instruction?
a. Describe the relationship between internal human learning processes and these
instructional events. Use specific examples to support your description.
b. What is the practical usefulness of the nine events model for the development of
instruction?
Virginia Tech Honor Code: I have neither given nor received unauthorized assistance
on this assignment.
Signed _____________________________________ DATE ________________