Hello, I Aja Cochran have created this blog as apart of an assignment for my EDUC- 6115 Learning Theories and Instruction course at Walden University. I am currently studying to become an instructional designer and as I continue throughout my journey, I will be using this blog as a learning source to share and discuss instructional- design related topics and issues that will aid in the growth and development of myself and others.
This week, I will be sharing and analyzing three sites that I have found beneficial for individuals in the field of instructional design and education.
Site #1- Struggling to Keep Learners Engaged? Get Back to Basics
URL: https://www.shiftelearning.com/blog/tell-show-do-apply-model-elearning
This site/blog is designed for instructors who are looking to create effective e-learning courses that would keep students engaged. Karla Gutierrez is the creator of this particular blog and has developed a Tell-Show-Do Model that would assist learners during their learning process. My reason being for choosing this site is because of the current needs for developing engaging content for learners during this time of remote/distant learning. Many teachers have found it quite difficult to keep their learners focused and involved during these times. Gutierrez explains four strategies that would ensure instructors create content that aligns with learning objectives while keeping learners busy and engaged. I think that those who are in the current field of instructional design or who are training to become successful in this field, will find this blog useful as they learn to develop content related learning specific to the needs of students.
Site #2- Instructional Designers: The Rapid E-Learning Blog
URL: https://blogs.articulate.com/rapid-elearning/instructional-design/
I found this site useful to field of instructional design because it provides a host of information that would enable designers to build courses that would help individuals learn. There's a variety of links provided in which individuals may search through to read specific related content as they create different e-learning or training platforms. As with many digital platforms, they can be useful if engaging and not useful if poorly designed. This results in a lack of learning and applying on learners who do not find such platforms beneficial to their learning needs. One of the links that I found interesting was (Go Beyond Information Sharing- 5 Ways Your E-Learning Courses Can Create Understanding). Once this linked is clicked, you will see a host of information that will explain how you can create content that can provide learners with understanding rather than just stating facts or information that the audience may not retain.
Site #3- Beyond Technical: Why Soft Skills Matter for Instructional Designers
URL: https://www.instructionaldesigncentral.com/post/beyond-technical-why-soft-skills-matter-for-instructional-designers
As instructional designers, common day to day task include adapting to new technology tools and educational trends (Jordan, 2019). However, much more is needed in the role of an instructional designer. I found this site beneficial because it explains the importance of developing 'soft skills'. The site breaks down five soft skills and thoroughly explains the use of each one. It may be important for instructional designers to understand new tech tools, how to be organized and effectively communicate but when a designer develops soft skills, their skills and the work that they do will sustain during changing times.
I hope that you to may find these sites/blogs beneficial and informative while working in the field of instructional design. Thanks for reading my blog.
-Aja
