09/10/2026
It is with great sadness that we share the news that Dr. Jonathan Michael Spector, Regents Professor Emeritus in the Department of Learning Technologies at the University of North Texas, passed away on September 8, 2026, following a brief battle with cancer.
Known to many of us as “Mike,” he was an extraordinary leader and a truly influential figure in the field of instructional design and learning technologies. As a past President of the Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT), and through his countless publications, research grants, edited books, and distinguished editorial leadership—including his service as a development editor for Educational Technology Research and Development (ETR&D)—Mike left an enduring and lasting impact on our field. His scholarship, leadership, and mentorship touched the lives and work of countless colleagues and students around the world, and he will be deeply missed.
For those of us in the Department of Learning Technologies, Mike was much more than an accomplished scholar and leader. He was a cherished colleague, mentor, and friend. He will be remembered for his generosity, warmth, wit, and wonderful sense of humor, as well as for many ways he supported and inspired those around him. We feel incredibly fortunate to have known and worked with him.
We will share information about his memorial service once arrangements are provided by his family.
We also invite colleagues, students, alumni, and friends to share their reminiscences, stories, photographs, and other memories of Mike as we create a collage celebrating his life and legacy. We hope this collection will help us remember and honor the remarkable scholar, professor, mentor, and friend he was to so many.
In memory of Mike, and with gratitude for the lasting legacy he leaves behind.
— Department of Learning Technologies, University of North Texas
