What is the profile of a proficient instructional designer for e-learning environments?

Abstract

Topic to be explored: What is the profile of a proficient instructional designer for e-learning environments? Instructional design is the process where learning, rather than technology is at the centre of development. Instructional design for e-learning is about bridging the worlds of technology and education (Siemens,2002). The success of e-learning is inextricably linked to good quality instructional design. So what makes a proficient instructional designer in an e-learning environment? This round table session will begin with a discussion of what instructional design is and how it is done. Why the topic is important: The traditional approach to instructional design is highly structured and often oriented towards a compliance model that requires a low level of cognitive processing by the learner. However a ‘lego build’ approach where little thought is given to integrating the learning experience of participants is not good design practice for teaching and learning at a higher cognitive level. (Ertmer & Newby, 1993, Clayton, Elliott & Saravani, 2008). The continued growth and success of e-learning is closely linked to the design of quality learning, enabled through the use of technology. Many issues with e-learning such as high drop-out rates and poor performance can be mitigated through quality instructional design. Finding and training effective e-learning instructional designers is vital for the success of e-learning in education. How the debate will be continued: The discussion will continue as the group comes up with a recorded list of key attributes and skills that an instructional designer has. This list will then be broken down into tasks that are commonly performed, creating a clear picture of what makes a proficient instructional designer in an e-learning environment. Participants will be able to take this away with them.