The Crucial Role of Instructional Designers in Online Course Development

Sep 5 / Dr. Lindsay Andreolli-Comstock
In the rapidly evolving landscape of continuing education, the transition from traditional in-person teaching to online course development presents both challenges and opportunities. To ensure a seamless and effective transition, intelligent course instructors seeking to sell their courses online can benefit greatly from the expertise of instructional designers. These trained professionals play a pivotal role in shaping the educational experience by combining pedagogical principles, advanced technological tools, and creative strategies.

Below, I highlight the benefits of instructional designers in the process of online course development and discuss their role in assisting subject matter experts, also known as instructors, in creating compelling and engaging online courses and trainings for adult learners at The School of Global Citizenry.
Instructional designers serve as guides and facilitators, bridging the gap between educators and technology. Their expertise lies in translating pedagogical content into effective digital learning experiences that engage and enlighten learners. For course instructors eager to enter the online realm, instructional designers offer a structured approach to crafting content that is tailored to the unique demands of the online environment. By collaborating closely with subject matter experts, instructional designers help would-be online educators navigate the nuances of online teaching, fostering a seamless integration of educational goals with technology-driven resources.

One of the primary advantages of involving instructional designers in online course development is their ability to provide insight into learner-centered design. These professionals understand the importance of creating courses that cater to various learning styles and preferences. Instructional designers can guide course instructors in incorporating interactive elements such as quizzes, discussions, videos, and infographics that keep learners engaged and motivated throughout the course. By leveraging their expertise, instructors can transform their in-person teaching methods into captivating online experiences that promote active participation and knowledge retention.

Instructional designers also possess a deep understanding of educational technologies and best practices. They can recommend suitable learning management systems, tools, and platforms that align with your course's objectives. This guidance is invaluable for instructors who may be unfamiliar with the array of technological options available and third party add-ons. Instructional designers assist educators in utilizing multimedia effectively, enhancing content delivery and understanding. This expertise ensures that the online courses are not only comprehensive but also visually appealing and user-friendly.

In collaborating with subject matter experts, our instructional designers refine and enhance course content. They provide valuable feedback and suggestions for organizing information in a coherent and structured manner. This collaborative approach enables instructors to refine their teaching strategies and presentations, resulting in courses that are well-organized, easy to follow, and engaging for learners.

In conclusion, instructional designers offered through The School of Global Citizenry play an indispensable role in the process of online course development. Their expertise in merging educational principles with technology enhances the learning experience and assists educators in transitioning from in-person teaching to online instruction. For intelligent course instructors seeking to sell courses online, instructional designers offer invaluable guidance in creating compelling and comprehensive course offerings that captivate learners in the digital realm. By embracing the expertise of instructional designers, educators can confidently navigate the challenges of online course development and provide meaningful, impactful learning experiences for their adult learners.

To learn more about instructional design and course developer support through The School of Global Citizenry, click here