So you want to be an Instructional Designer. Start with "Why"

A designer is a dreamer. Someone that wonders about how things work. Or how a process could be improved. Someone that constantly asks “why?”

Would the answers to any of the questions below be interesting to you? If so, you may very well have the heart of an instructional designer.

• Why are my online assignments due on Sunday?
•  What technologies can make an online course more interesting and engaging?
• Why is it that hyperlinks in Blackboard open up in a new tab instead of the same one in the web browser?
• What type of assessments work best in an online classroom?
• Why does the course menu use a black background color and white font color?
•  Why do instructors create their intro videos using Kaltura instead of YouTube?
• What test settings can help improve academic integrity (such has prohibit backtracking)?

When I first heard of instructional design, I assumed it was related to graphic and web design. And in some ways, it does cover those things. But instructional design is all about creating user-friendly online learning experiences.  And if done very well, the technology should feel invisible to students.

For example, a well designed online course will have:

• Directions for assignments that are clearly written.
• Just enough content to challenge the student, but not overwhelm them with busy work.   
• A simple way of getting support, if the students do need help.  

If you are interested in getting into the field of instructional design, consider Wilmington University's certificate in E-Learning Design and Technology. This is an 18 credit graduate certificate that will teach students how to design, develop, and deliver quality e-learning programs in both education and business environments. As of October 5, 2016, LinkedIn has nearly 1,000 job postings listed the job title “Instructional Designer”. 

Does this certificate or the field of instructional design interest you? If so, comment below with any questions that you may have.

Alternatively, if you’re already working in the field, please consider sharing your experiences! What’s your favorite thing about your job?