Boise State Organizational Performance and Workplace Learning

OPWL Faculty Dr. Victoria Abramenka-Lachheb presented at the 2026 American Educational Research Association (AERA) Annual Meeting. The session focused on advancing the field of Learning/Instructional Design and Technology (L/IDT) through a conceptual paper titled “The Future of the Field IS Design (+X)”.

This work responds to recent debates in the field that question whether design should remain central to L/IDT. The paper argues that rather than moving beyond design, the field should deepen its commitment to design expertise defined as the integration of ethical judgment, contextual awareness, systems thinking, and human-centered practice.

The paper contributes to ongoing scholarly dialogue by reframing design not as a narrow, procedural activity, but as a mature and complex professional practice. It aligns with broader conversations at AERA around innovation, interdisciplinarity, and the future of education.

Participation in this session supported ongoing rsearch focused on design expertise, ethical practice, and the evolving role of AI and design in learning environments. It also provided an opportunity to engage with leading scholars and contribute to high-level discourse in the field.