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Becoming an Instructional Designer

You don’t necessarily need a qualification, but you do need an excellent grasp of Instructional Design theory.

What is ‘Instructional Design’?

First we must understand how people learn.

We use this knowledge to help direct our decisions when looking at the types of learning interventions and strategies we’ll implement to meet the needs of the learners and the organisation.

 

What is the point of Instructional Design?

Put simply, Instructional Design makes instructions engaging and effective. We use interactivity to improve learning transfer and achievement of the learning outcomes. The Instructional Designer is the expert in understanding good pedagogy and accessing the best technology to support learning.

Instructional Design can be applied to any situation requiring ‘Human Performance Improvement’. The Instructional Designer is the expert in identifying the most effective, engaging, and cost-effective solution. They start by analysing the environment, the problem, and the needs of the individuals and the organisation, then develop clear learning outcomes which are used to mould the structure and content needed in the final solution.

 

Instructional Design, Instructional Design, or Learning Design?

All these terms are used interchangeably in the industry but there are subtle differences. Learn more here.

What Do Instructional Designers Create?

What do Instructional Designers do?

Below is a graphic demonstrating the key job tasks and responsibilities of an Instructional Designer.

9 segment circle showing the role of an Instructional Designer

An Instructional Designer:

Has excellent knowledge of how to apply each step of the ADDIE Model of Instructional Design

Delivers learning that gets results, by using latest research into Instructional Design theories, tools, and resources

Ensures the most suitable teaching methods are used by keeping abreast of best practice in educational psychology

Works collaboratively with subject matter experts (SMEs) and other client stakeholders

Ensures feedback and assessment results are produced through a robust evaluation approach

Creates bespoke design solutions in collaborations with a variety of multimedia specialists

An excellent Instructional Designer demonstrates these skills and qualities:

List of Instructional Designer skills

Do you need a formal qualification to become an Instructional Designer?

Although a degree is not always necessary to secure a role as an Instructional Designer, you do need to demonstrate a relevant level of education and experience.

If you are interested in formal qualifications, your options may include the following online Instructional Design programs.

 

*Prices as at June 2021.

Diploma of Training Design and Development, $6,500

Graduate Certificate in Education (Innovative Learning Design), $10,000+

Graduate Certificate in eLearning, $17,434

Interested in an alternative to formal education?

If you’re looking for a cost-effective and flexible way to learn how to become an Instructional Designer, the Instructional Design Certificate program is what you need.

The Instructional Design Certificate program provides you with the proven theoretical knowledge and practical experience you’ll need to secure a role as an Instructional Designer.

 

It provides flexibility in where and when you complete it.

Your purchase provides immediate, life-long access to the materials. This means you can learn at your own pace – smash it out or take your time! You can access the program 24/7, so you can progress your learning where and when you want.

 

Practice as you learn

To complete the course, you’ll follow the ADDIE Model of Instructional Design whilst concurrently creating your very own learning program.

 

Personalised learning and support

In the Instructional Design PLUS program, you are provided access to a Senior Instructional Designer who’ll identify your strengths and areas for improvement and help you develop your materials.

 

Practical tools

The Instructional Design Toolkit provides guides and templates that correlate with the steps of the ADDIE Model. It’s everything you need to start designing your very own effective and engaging learning programs!

 

The Instructional Design Certificate

When you finish your program you’ll receive the Instructional Design Certificate. Please note this certificate is not accredited.

 

Are you ready to become an Instructional Designer?

Find out more about our Instructional Design programs here.