There are a number of teachers in the world of instructional design for the simple fact that, in theory, they possess the perfect skill set.
Will all teachers be brilliant instructional designers? No, probably not! In much the same way that an amazing instructional designer may not be able to cope with teaching a class of 12 year-olds. It depends on the individual and how much they’re willing to put the work in to learn a new career.
However, with the background that teachers have, instructional design is not a million miles away. Having said that, embarking on a career transition is a significant step, and if you’re a teacher considering the move to instructional design, you may be wondering how your skills in the classroom can transition to this field. Or you may just be totally panicking and thinking you’ll never make it!
The truth is, the skills you’ve honed as an educator are invaluable assets that can unlock your potential as an instructional designer. There’s still a lot of work for you to do though, I’m afraid, it’s no golden egg. But you have the basics down, and that goes a long way to making it a possible new career for you.
Let’s have a look at how teaching skills can translate to success in instructional design.
1. Effective Communication
One of the fundamental skills of a teacher is the ability to communicate complex ideas in a way that is understandable to diverse learners. This skill is equally vital in instructional design. As an instructional designer, you’ll be tasked with creating materials that effectively convey information to learners. Your experience in tailoring communication to different learning styles will be a powerful asset in crafting engaging and comprehensible content.
2. Classroom Management
Managing a classroom is no small feat. Particularly with EYFS – my undying admiration to any EYFS teachers out there!
The ability to maintain order, create a positive learning environment, and adapt to unexpected situations are skills that directly translate to instructional design. In the world of e-learning, understanding how to structure content, facilitate engagement, and address challenges in a virtual environment is crucial. Your classroom management expertise positions you to navigate the digital learning landscape with ease. (And yes, a room full of petulant office workers can seem like a bunch of four-year-olds sometimes!).
3. Lesson Planning and Curriculum Development
Teachers are masters at creating lesson plans and developing curriculum that aligns with educational objectives. In instructional design, you’ll leverage these skills to design effective learning experiences. Your experience in sequencing content, setting learning goals, and incorporating assessment strategies will be instrumental in developing impactful instructional materials.
4. Understanding Learner Needs
A deep understanding of the needs of diverse learners is a hallmark of effective teaching. This skill is directly applicable to instructional design, where creating learner-centric materials is paramount. Your ability to empathise with learners, anticipate their challenges, and tailor content to meet their needs potentially positions you as a designer who can create meaningful and accessible learning experiences.
5. Adaptability and Innovation
Teaching requires constant adaptation to the evolving needs of students and the educational landscape. Similarly, instructional design demands an innovative mindset. Your experience in adapting to different teaching methodologies, integrating new technologies, and embracing change equips you to thrive in the ever-evolving field of instructional design.
6. Collaboration and Teamwork
Teachers often collaborate with colleagues, leadership teams, and parents to create a supportive learning environment. Instructional designers also work collaboratively, engaging with subject matter experts, graphic designers, and other stakeholders to bring a project to fruition. Your ability to collaborate and work in a team setting is a valuable asset in the collaborative nature of instructional design projects.
7. Patience and Flexibility
Teaching is a profession that requires patience and flexibility. Lesson plans may need to be adjusted on the fly, and unexpected challenges are part of the daily routine. These qualities are equally vital in instructional design, where projects may require revisions, and unforeseen obstacles may arise. Your ability to stay calm under pressure and adapt to changing circumstances positions you for success.
Embracing Your Transition
Transitioning from teaching to instructional design is not just a change in career; it’s a (wait for it…that dreaded word) journey!!! I know, everyone everywhere seems to have a ‘journey’ these days, but that’s not to say changing careers isn’t a big old jump. It’s just that this particular one can leverage the wealth of skills you’ve cultivated as an educator. You won’t be able to just walk in and get a job, you’ll need to put the groundwork in – just as in any new career. But you’re starting off with a good basis of knowledge that will help you along the way.
When you think about this change, recognize the value of your teaching skills and how they seamlessly translate to success in instructional design. (How to use teaching skills to smash instructional design.) You’ll have the opportunity to innovate, create, and impact learners on a broader scale. Your potential as an instructional designer is not just waiting to be unlocked – it’s right there – you just have to knuckle down and show the world what you have to offer.
