Indianapolis, IN
January 30, 2025 – The Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT) is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Richard E. West as Editor-in-Chief of the Development section of Educational Technology Research and Development (ETR&D), a peer reviewed world class academic journal published by AECT in partnership with Springer Nature. He will succeed Dr. Lin Lin Lipsmeyer who held this role since 2018. Dr. West brings a wealth of expertise and a long-standing dedication to AECT and its mission to improve learning and instruction through innovative technologies.
Dr. West is a professor of Instructional Psychology and Technology at Brigham Young University, where he also serves as the graduate coordinator. Since earning his PhD in 2009 from the University of Georgia under the mentorship of Dr. Michael Hannafin, a former ETR&D editor, Dr. West has been at the forefront of instructional design and educational innovation. His teaching portfolio includes courses on academic research and writing, creativity, design psychology, and program evaluation.
In addition to his teaching, Dr. West’s research focuses on advancing education through improved open educational content, the development of strong learning communities, and the creation of open credentials that better recognize student achievements. With over 150 academic publications and two popular open textbooks to his name, he has become a respected voice in instructional technology worldwide, presenting his work in 10 countries.
Dr. West’s connection to ETR&D spans more than two decades. “I have published 10 articles in the journal and served as a consulting editor, member of the editorial board, and editor of a special issue,” he shared. “I care about this journal, and I care a great deal about its sponsoring organization, AECT—an organization I have belonged to since 2003.” In his new role, Dr. West plans to strengthen the journal by addressing current challenges and building on its legacy of excellence.
Dr. Tristan Johnson, Editor-in-Chief of ETR&D’s Research section, welcomed Dr. West’s appointment with enthusiasm: “We are delighted to welcome
Rick has experience as a special issue editor multiple times and has served on the journal’s board of consulting editors for many years. He’s well-suited to address journals’ critical challenges. We’re excited to have his leadership skills as we work towards enhancing the journal operations.”
Remarks from Nolan Gruver, CEO of AECT
"We are thrilled to announce Dr. Richard E. West as the new Editor-in-Chief of the Development section of ETR&D. Dr. West's extensive experience and dedication to instructional technology make him an exceptional choice for this role.
His long-standing commitment to AECT, coupled with his impressive body of work, including over 150 academic publications, highlights his expertise and passion for the field. We are confident that Dr. West will bring a continued fresh perspective and dynamic leadership to the Development section of ETR&D.
I would also like to extend our gratitude to Dr. Lin Lin Lipsmeyer for her outstanding service as Editor-in-Chief since 2018. Her contributions have been invaluable. Likewise, as the Editor-in-Chief of the Research section of ETR&D we also appreciate Dr. Tristan Johnson’s ongoing valuable support to the journal and AECT as his new colleague onboards this year.
With two great academic professionals at the helm working together to ensure smooth transitions we are excited about the future of ETR&D and its continued impact on educational technology as a world class academic journal."
AECT and Educational Technology Research and Development
Since 1923, AECT has been the professional home and intellectual family for educational technology and has continuously maintained a central position in the field, promoting high standards, in both scholarship and practice. The Educational Technology Research and Development journal, published by Springer Nature, is a flagship publication of AECT and is recognized globally for its contributions to research and practice in the field of educational technology. Dr. West’s appointment reinforces AECT’s commitment to fostering innovation and leadership in scholarly publishing.
About the Association for Educational Communication and Technology (AECT)
AECT is an international organization that values diversity of thought, culture and people whose activities are directed toward improving learning. AECT members may be found in colleges and universities; in the Armed Forces and industry; in museums, libraries, and hospitals; and in any other places where educational change takes place. AECT members include instructional designers, researchers, professors and teachers, educational technologists, and other professionals united by a passion for improving teaching and learning with technology.