How to become an Instructional Designer?

[Steven Baratz <sbaratz -at- mindspring -dot- com>]

I have been reading this list for a few months while looking into the 
fields of technical writing and instructional design, and I am 
leaning toward the latter. There seems to be quite a bit of 
"crossover" between these fields, but I'm more interested in 
multimedia and education than in developing help systems and "how-to" 
manuals.

I have a recent teaching credential but I would prefer to design 
instructional materials rather than lead a classroom. I could develop 
corporate training or K-12 educational curriculum/activities; I am 
open to possibilities. Prior to becoming a teacher I was a web 
designer/developer and photographer.

Sure, I could go back to school and get an M.A. in Instructional 
Technologies. I was enrolled in a program before I went for the 
teaching credential, but I'd much rather work, for many reasons. Work 
experience far outweighs academic experience in practical terms, 
although degrees can open doors...

How to get around the old Catch-22, that it takes experience to get experience?
What are roads, traditional or otherwise, to become an Instructional Designer?
Is there such a thing as an "entry-level" job?
What type of "samples" can reasonably be expected?
Does one need to choose one field over another: Tech. Writing "vs." 
Instructional Design?
Ideas and suggestions, relevant personal experience and advice are 
all appreciated.

best-
sbb
--
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Steven Baratz Creative Services
(415) 863-3353 tel/fax
(415) 378-2458 cel
http://sbaratz.home.mindspring.com
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"Here's something to think about:
How come you never see a headline like
`Psychic Wins Lottery'?"  -- Jay Leno
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