Tag Archives: job searching

ILT vs. E-Learning… How Much Do Instructional Design Skills Translate?

Posted on by Judy Unrein
8

I have a friend who is looking for an instructional design job. Up to this point in her career, she has only designed instructor-led training, but she feels that her skills and experience will translate directly to elearning.

I don’t entirely agree, but since more of my experience is in designing elearning, I don’t feel like I’m the biggest expert on the differences in what we do.

So I’m asking for your help… what do you think?

I understand that this question is full of gray areas, but please pick a side that you agree with more… and if you’re inclined, I’d love for you to leave a comment to explain why! For the purposes of this poll, assume that no elearning development skills are being considered; just design skills.

[polldaddy poll=1842756]

Building Your Portfolio

Posted on by Judy Unrein
2

Great post from The Rapid E-Learning Blog, on why job-seekers should have an elearning portfolio.

rapidelearningblog

Here, thoughts to help get it done…

Ideas. Instructional designers generally don’t create because they get thunderbolts of inspiration; they create because they get assignments. A friend of mine who offered her talents pro bono to a local charity now has a portfolio piece and a great client recommendation.

Also, consider redeveloping old work projects — without proprietary info and with the cool ideas your budget/timeline/boss wouldn’t allow the first time.

Software. You know about educational discounts and trials. If those won’t work, record a PowerPoint presentation that simulates branching or invest in one application that you can use to create several kinds of projects.

If you focus more on design than development anyway, partner with a student/out-of-work multimedia developer. Violà, portfolio pieces for both of you!