Hierarchal Task Analysis

Thinking about all the assignments you did this month, which ones are you selecting to go into your portfolio folder?

Thinking about all the assignments I developed this month, I selected my hierarchical task analysis (HTA) diagram to include in my portfolio. This particular assignment allowed me to break down complex processes from my capstone project into manageable components, providing a clear and structured overview of the tasks involved. The HTA graph not only represents a culmination of the skills I have been honing throughout my master's program but also serves as a tangible example of my ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios. It is a comprehensive reflection of my analytical abilities, attention to detail, and commitment to creating user-friendly instructional materials.

What does your selection(s) say about you as an instructional designer?

The HTA says a lot about me as an instructional designer. It showcases my capacity for meticulous planning and my proficiency in organizing complex information into coherent, hierarchical structures. This assignment demonstrates my ability to think critically about the sequence and importance of tasks, ensuring that each step is logically connected and easy to follow. My HTA highlights my problem-solving skills and my dedication to anticipating and addressing potential issues within a task sequence. Additionally, it reflects my commitment to clear and effective communication, both in documenting tasks and in ensuring that instructional materials are accessible and comprehensible to future learners. This assignment illustrates my systematic approach to instructional design and my ability to integrate various design principles to create effective learning experiences.

What skills did you learn this month? How can you best demonstrate those in your final portfolio?

The skills I acquired this month are diverse, each playing a significant role in my growth as an instructional designer. My analytical skills have been sharpened through the process of breaking down complex tasks into smaller, manageable components. Attention to detail has been essential in identifying and documenting every step and sub-task accurately. I have improved my organizational skills by structuring tasks in a logical, hierarchical order, and my critical thinking has been enhanced by evaluating the importance and sequence of each task. Problem-solving skills were developed as I identified potential issues within the task sequence and devised potential solutions. Technical writing skills were exercised in creating detailed and comprehensible documentation of tasks. Time management was essential to efficiently completing detailed analyses within project timelines. Systematic thinking was reinforced by viewing the learning process as an interconnected system rather than isolated tasks, and I applied instructional design principles to ensure tasks were aligned with learning objectives. Software proficiency was gained through the use of tools and software to create and manage HTA diagrams. Feedback incorporation skills were developed by adjusting the HTA based on feedback from my instructor.

To best demonstrate these skills in my final portfolio, I will focus on a clear presentation of the HTA process, using diagrams to present the HTA in a clear format. I will also emphasize the demonstration of my skills through showcasing the thoroughness of the task breakdown and the rationale behind the hierarchical structure. My analytical and critical thinking abilities will be highlighted, along with my technical writing skills, by presenting well-written, clear, and concise documentation of the HTA. This structured and detailed approach will effectively communicate my proficiency in instructional design and the various skills I have developed throughout my studies.