ThingLink

Key points: • Project management and educational expertise that form the basis of educational design • The need for learner-centered design and systematic problem-solving skills • The importance of utilizing educational technology tools and continuous self-development • Securing professional manpower and meeting the growing demand in the educational design market • Career development through participation in professional networks and certifications Experience of instructional design experts The careers of Dr. Sarah Dove and Jessica, both instructional design experts at Ohio State University, illustrate the many possibilities for transitioning into instructional design. Dr. Dove earned her PhD in dance theory and practice, while Jessica became an instructional design expert through data analysis and Italian language teaching. The Role and Challenges of Instructional Designers Instructional designers play a vital role in connecting instructors and learning implementation. They are responsible for a wide range of tasks, from HTML coding and operating learning management systems (LMSs) to project management and coordination of stakeholders. In particular, they plan and implement new projects, such as building virtual learning environments. The core of instructional design is 'backwards design'. This is a method of designing backwards from the goal and outcome before creating learning materials. For many educators, this approach is a new challenge. The biggest challenge in the field is implementing new designs within the limitations of the existing education system. Sometimes, a plan that has been studied and prepared with great effort may be difficult to implement due to system constraints, so the ability to creatively solve this problem is required. Real-world examples of new learning designs A case study of learning design using the ThingLink platform shows how instructional design can work in practice. Jessica introduced a “Choose Your Own Adventure” approach to her medieval women’s history class, allowing students to choose a historical figure of interest to study. Dr. Dove designed a structured learning experience for older learners with cognitive challenges. Using sequential numbering and consistent learning patterns, learners can follow a clear path while learning on their own. Preparing to Become an Instructional Design Professional Educators considering a transition to the field of instructional design need to prepare as follows. First, it is important to gain experience by using various educational technology tools directly. Technical skills such as HTML coding are also necessary. Second, expertise gained in the field of education is a great asset in instructional design. The ability to understand learning theory and systematically solve problems is also a core competency in instructional design. The instructional design market continues to grow. Especially with the growing importance of online learning after COVID-19, companies are investing in creating a real learning culture beyond formal education. This is leading to an increase in demand for instructional design experts. To develop your expertise, it is important to create a systematic portfolio. A portfolio created with a new tool like ThingLink can effectively demonstrate your expertise. Participating in professional networks and obtaining certifications are important elements of career development. Above all, the attitude of continuing to learn and try new things is the basis for success as an instructional design professional. Future Prospects The field of educational design continues to evolve with technological advancements and changes in learning methods. Based on their expertise in the field of education, we look forward to the challenges of experts who will open up new possibilities for educational design.