Forum Discussion
A silly question about Instructional Designer & Subject Matter Expert
Hi PD,
In my role as a Learning Designer of online learning I have a specific skill set that is built around online learning. Recently most of my work involves courses for several universities including Master's programs. University instructors often don't understand how online learning (especially asynchronous online learning) works. Asynchronous learning needs much more planning than a typical face-to-face course. Sometimes we use Rise or Storyline, sometimes we are building directly into the LMS platform (Moodle, D2L). I need to understand the technology, the limits of the technology, the accessibility of different components, and how to get learners not only to interact with the course but each other as well so they can construct new knowledge and be able to apply that knowledge and skills to their life.
Sadly, instructors do not always use royalty-free images and they sometimes fail to cite things properly. Part of my role is to make sure that doesn't happen.
The LD is also a voice for the students. Where I advocate for a more inclusive and accessible course that also creates meaningful engagement.
Hi Cary, that's an interesting way to look at ID as the voice of the student. As I am learning about the field, sometimes I find myself spending too much time trying to understand all the theories and ID models but forgetting that at the end of the day, they are for learners. So looking at ID from the perspective of students (what they need, how they learn and what will be beneficial for them) is definitely a good way to approach ID :). Thank you for taking the time to answer my question.