Becoming an Instructional Designer: A Comprehensive Guide by Devlin Peck

Introduction

• Speaker: Devlin Peck
• Background: Instructional Designer since 2017, created ID Bootcamp in 2020
• Goal: To help people transition to instructional design effectively
• Data: Insights from over 100 hiring managers and 600+ instructional designers

Why Choose Instructional Design?

• Impact: Helps people learn and make a difference
• Work-Life Balance: 93% satisfaction among IDs
• Compensation: Average $87,000 annually in the US; a quarter making six figures
• Transferable Skills: Leverage existing skills from education, project management, etc.
• Career Growth: Opportunities to move into UX/UI design, software development, etc.

Steps to Becoming an Instructional Designer

1. Determine If It's Right For You

• Research: Watch overview videos, read job listings, speak with current IDs
• Resources: Devlin Peck's community, LinkedIn informational interviews

2. Learn the Knowledge and Skills

• Key Theories/Models: ADDIE, Bloom's Taxonomy, Kirkpatrick's Model, Gagné's Nine Events, Mayer's Multimedia Principles
• Approach: Take notes, practice applications, incorporate into portfolio projects
• Hiring Manager Insights: Top skills - ID theory application, communication, eLearning development

3. Create Your Portfolio

• Importance: Essential for hiring; leads to higher salary and job opportunities
• Contents: Projects demonstrating problem-solving, user experience, feedback implementation
• Resources: Devlin Peck's flagship project videos, portfolio showcase on his website

4. Optimize Resume and LinkedIn Profile

• Resume: Highlight ID-related skills, reframe past responsibilities, link to portfolio
• LinkedIn: Optimize with keywords, grow network, research companies, engage in the community
• Interview Preparation: Treat as two-way conversation, build human connection
• Application Strategy: Apply to roles even if not meeting 100% of the requirements, use varied search terms

5. Learn the Technology

• Essential Tools: Articulate Storyline, Learning Management Systems (LMS), SCORM packages
• Additional Tools: Photoshop, Illustrator, Figma, Vyond, Camtasia
• Emerging Tools: AI tools like ChatGPT
• Portfolio Projects: Develop eLearning samples, upload to LMS

6. Apply for Roles and Prepare for Interviews

• Resume & Portfolio Optimization: Major focus on visibility and showcasing skills
• Interview Tips: Human connection, negotiation, being prepared for emotional ups and downs
• Continuous Improvement: Keep learning, adjusting, and refining your skills and portfolio

Conclusion

• Field Overview: Instructional design offers rewarding career opportunities, flexibility, and growth
• Key to Success: Strong portfolio showcasing problem-solving and application of theories
• Next Steps: Utilize provided resources for a step-by-step guide, subscribe for ongoing content and support

Emoji Summary: 📚