Instructional Designers

Two to three years of experience in instructional design, educational technology, pedagogy, or curriculum development is required to work as an instructional designer. Many instructional designers employed by postsecondary institutions have previous experience as college professors or in technology development, according to a survey of instructional designers by Intentional Futures. Some are experts in design, others are skilled at using technology, and many others have knowledge of teaching strategies and learning theory.

First and foremost, instructional designers need excellent communication and interpersonal skills. They must be good listeners in order to gather information and work well with teachers, subject-matter specialists, and other project shareholders. They also must be able to write effective copy, audio and video scripts, and instructional text, and be able to explain complicated technical concepts to information technology novices. Other important traits include:

• an eye for detail and the ability to turn ideas into a tangible form
• the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines
• creativity and imagination
• a high degree of flexibility
• strong organization, project management, problem-solving, and research skills
• excellent knowledge of learning theories and instructional design models
• a willingness to continue to learn throughout one’s career
• an open mind
• a strong background in universal design learning concepts, American With Disabilities Act compliance, and Web accessibility issues
• knowledge of instructional design models and pedagogy
• skill in the use of TechSmith’s Camtasia (a screen recorder and video editor), Adobe editing and design software, Microsoft Word and Powerpoint, Prezi (presentation software), Articulate Storyline (which is used to create interactive courses and content), Blackboard (a virtual learning environment and course management system), learning management systems, and other software