E-Learning Design - How did you get started?

Hi Martin!

I stumbled into Instructional Design when a friend of mine pitched me to the organization she was working at. I didn’t realize it was a career option, and it really wasn’t my first choice, but I’ve grown to become quite passionate about the work that I do.

I stayed with that organization for five years, completed a Masters of Education (Post-Secondary Studies) and then took my side hustle (I was freelancing in what little downtime I had) full-time. I LOVE development, but I also really enjoy doing analysis and design (two tasks that don’t get contracted out enough, in my opinion), and I think it’s important that no matter what phase of development you’re most passionate about, that you at least understand and appreciate all phases. If you’re note sure what analysis or evaluation or design entails…dig a bit deeper in your research and at least familiarize yourself with the other phases.

I’m quite passionate about working within Higher Education, and it is a bleep of a role to get into when your local demographic is over-saturated with educators. I don’t necessarily agree that face-to-face instruction is an asset for Instructional Designers, although I will admit that it can provide you with a good context for your development. With that being said, I’m not a face-to-face instructor and never have been. I’ve never aspired to be a teacher, and I truly love the behind the scenes work that I do for organizations and/or faculty members at the institution I work for. Is face-to-face essential? No, I don’t think so. Is it a nice-to-have? Sure.

In the end, it really just depends on where you want to go with your career. You may settle into a few roles before figuring it out, but perhaps you want to be an Instructional Designer, perhaps you want to be a project manager for an e-learning company, perhaps you want to design and deliver your own instructor-led training. It can seem daunting, but give it some time and you’ll quickly figure out what path you’re most passionate about

My best advice is to research, research, research! Try on as many hats as you're provided and see what fits best!

Ashley