Doctoral Student Chosen for Competitive International Internship in Instructional Design and Technology

An Idaho State University College of Education instructional design and technology doctoral student, Beth Willoughby, was selected for the highly competitive and internationally recognized Addie Kinsinger Leadership Development Internship Program. This outstanding achievement was made possible through her work and exceptional leadership potential with the Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT). 

AECT is a leading international academic organization that brings together students, professionals, educators, and researchers dedicated to instructional design and the systematic improvement of learning. Willoughby is an active member of AECT, serving as president-elect designee for the Teacher and Instructional Leadership (TIL) division, contributing to the organization’s membership committee.

The internship program is designed to “identify individuals with significant potential to provide future leadership for AECT and in the broader field.” AECT selects current graduate students and new professionals in the K-20 education and industry. Interns work with mentors, collaborating on a project to further leadership development within AECT and the professional field. Selected individuals also help organize upcoming international conventions. Willoughby was among the total of eight interns selected for this prestigious opportunity. 

With more than 25 years of experience as a school librarian, Willoughby has long been dedicated to education and her community in Dunellen, New Jersey. She serves as a board member of the Dunellen Parent Teacher Organization and is a library trustee. She assisted in developing New Jersey’s new information literacy standards, which are expected to be released in September 2027, and will train educators to implement the standards. 

Willoughby and her cohort are currently conducting a research study focused on examining practitioner engagement within the organization. The project includes both a survey and interviews aimed at identifying how the organization can better recruit, support and retain members. Findings will be presented to the AECT board to inform future initiatives.

“While I love my job, I have always wanted to do more,” she said. Willoughby credits her experience at Idaho State University for helping her take the leap to apply for the program. “Idaho State gave me the confidence to realize that I am qualified to be an intern.”

She specifically highlighted the encouragement of instructional design faculty members John Curry, Ph.D., and David Coffland, Ed.D., as well as support from Cathy Leavitt and Theresa Huff, Ph.D., who previously participated in the internship program.

“Thanks to them, I am doing more work that I enjoy, and in the internship I have found new friends, new ideas and the confidence that I can achieve anything I want.”

Being selected for the internship was both surprising and meaningful for Willoughby, who hopes her experience inspires others. “I was shocked to be accepted,” she said. “I was honored to represent Idaho State University and felt it showed that you can be an intern at any age and with any ability.”

Looking ahead, Willoughby plans to continue her involvement with AECT, complete her doctoral degree, and encourage others to pursue careers in instructional design and technology.

To learn more about the instructional design program, please visit the College of Education’s website.