Instructional design is a career choice that requires a unique combination of skills and knowledge. Instructional designers are responsible for creating effective and engaging educational materials and programs that help learners achieve their goals. As the demand for online learning continues to grow, so does the need for instructional designers.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in this fast-growing field as an instructional designer, there are several steps you can take to get started. Here we’ll explore the skills, education, and experience you’ll need to become an instructional designer, as well as why you should consider this exciting field as a career.
What is An Instructional Designer?
An instructional designer is a skilled professional that creates engaging educational materials, programs, and learning experiences. To help differentiate between a teacher and an instructional designer, think of it like this. A teacher instructs a live audience whereas an instructional designer works behind the scenes to develop and design the learning experience that the teacher delivers.
An instructional designer essentially makes it more fun to learn. Through the use of a variety of tools, such as interactive videos, e-learning modules, or simulations the main goal of an instructional designer is to create a learning experience that will help learners achieve their goals and improve their knowledge and skills. To do this, an instructional designer needs to have a strong understanding of instructional design models, learning theories, and educational technologies.
Instructional Designer Requirements: Skills
Instructional designers require a unique combination of skills and knowledge to be effective in their job:
- They must have a strong knowledge of learning theories and how they apply them to different learners.
- They must have a deep understanding of instructional design models to design effective learning materials.
- Instructional designers must be knowledgeable about various educational technologies and how to integrate them into their designs.
Additionally, they must have strong project management skills, including the ability to plan and manage resources effectively, as well as be skilled in collaboration and communication, as they often work with diverse teams to create high-quality learning experiences. Other essential skills needed for this career are strong creative problem-solving skills to help develop solutions to complex challenges as well as an eye for detail to ensure accuracy and consistency in their designs. Finally, the ability to evaluate, assess, and measure the effectiveness of their learning experiences to make improvements to their designs and learning experiences.
Instructional Designer Requirements: Education
To become an instructional designer most individuals, need at least a bachelor’s degree in instructional design, education, or a related field. However, some employers may require a master’s degree in instructional design or a related field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, instructional coordinators (also known as instructional designers) that work in a public school setting are required to have a master’s degree in education or curriculum and instruction.
They may also be required to have a teaching or education administrator license.
Many instructional designers start their careers by working as an educator or trainers then later pursue a master’s program in instructional design to help build their skills. Learning doesn’t stop at a master’s degree; most instructional designers continue their education and training throughout their careers to stay current with the latest technologies and theories.
Why Should One Consider Instructional Designer Jobs
If you are considering pursuing a career in instructional design, here are a few reasons why it could be a great choice for you.
High Demand
As the world becomes more reliant on digital learning and remote work, the role of instructional designers has become in high demand. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of instructional coordinators (which includes instructional designers) is projected to grow seven percent from 2021 to 2031.
Competitive Salary
The median annual wage for instructional coordinators was $63,740 in May 2021, with the highest 10% earning over $100,000 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salaries can vary depending on the industry and location, but instructional design is generally a well-paying field.
Diverse Career Opportunities
Instructional designers have a multitude of career options available to them, as they can work across a diverse range of industries beyond just the public school system. This allows for the chance to discover opportunities that align with individual interests and passions, whether it be in the corporate sector, healthcare industry, or non-profit organizations.
Utilize Creativity
Instructional designers get to use their creativity to design engaging experiences for learners. They have the opportunity to experiment with new technologies and techniques to create innovative and cutting-edge resources and programs.
Fulfilling Career
Instructional design can be a fulfilling career because it offers the opportunity to positively impact people’s lives. The job revolves around helping people learn and the desire to help others is what drives most people in this career.
A career as an instructional designer can be a fulfilling and rewarding profession for those with a passion for designing effective and engaging learning experiences. It is also regarded as a great career choice due to the high demand, well-paying job opportunities, and passion for continued learning and helping others.
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