When my college friend started her new job, she was too excited. But the training at the company was so boring and confusing for her. The company work manuals did not make sense and the videos were too long. She thought there must be a better and easier way to learn. Then, she found out about the instructional designer course from one of our mutual friends.
She researched that course and learned that training could be simple, interesting, and easy to understand. She finally decided to become an instructional designer. Now, she creates different courses that help people learn without any stress. She makes training clear and more interesting because learning should never be so hard. In this blog, we will explore and understand what is instructional designer, how to become an instructional designer, Top Companies, and the starting salary.
What is an Instructional Designer?
An Instructional Designer creates training materials to help people learn better. They design courses, educational videos, and activities that make learning easy and interesting. They create clear and fun training programs that help people get new skills and knowledge.They work in different industries like schools, businesses, corporate training, healthcare, online learning, and government. Their goal is to turn complex topics into simple, useful lessons that anyone can understand easily.
Key Responsibilities of an Instructional Designer:
They use different tools like Learning Management Systems (LMS), Authoring Software (like Articulate and Captivate), and Multimedia Tools to create high-quality learning experiences.
- Find out what people need to learn.
- Make learning materials.
- Use Technologies and Online Tools.
- Work with Experts.
- Check and Improve Training.
- Make Learning Fun and Easy.
How to Become an Instructional Designer?
If you want to become an Instructional Designer, follow these simple steps:
1. Earn a Relevant Degree
Most of these designers have a degree in teaching, instructional design, psychology, or communication degree. You need a bachelor’s degree to get started. But if you want better job opportunities, a master’s degree in instructional design can help you.
2. Gain Knowledge in Learning Theories
Understanding how people learn is important for creating effective lessons and instructional design. There are three main learning theories include:
- Behaviorism – People learn through punishments and rewards.
- Cognitivism – Learning through thinking and processing information.
- Constructivism – People learn through experience and building their understanding.
3. Learn Instructional Design Models
Learn common instructional design models such as:
- ADDIE Model – A step-by-step process: Analyze, Design, Develop, Implement, and Evaluate.
- SAM Model – A flexible approach allowing quick updates and improvements.
- Bloom’s Taxonomy – A better way to organize learning goals from basic to advanced skills.
4. Develop Technical Skills
Instructional designers use different types of tools to create and manage learning materials, including:
- LMS Platforms – Websites that help organize and deliver online courses like Moodle, Blackboard, and TalentLMS.
- Authoring Tools – Software for building interactive lessons and training materials, such as Articulate Storyline, Adobe Captivate, and Camtasia.
- Graphic Design Tools – Programs for making visuals like Canva and Adobe Photoshop.
5. Gain Practical Experience
Many employees prefer instructional designers with real-world experience or hands-on experience. You can learn it by:
- Creating sample courses – Build a portfolio to show your skills.
- Doing internships or freelance work – Get hands-on practice while earning experience.
- Volunteering – Help small or non-profit businesses by designing training programs for them.
6. Get Certified
You don’t need certifications, but they can make you more credible. Some main certifications are:
- Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP)
- eLearning Instructional Design Certificate
- ATD Master Instructional Designer Program
7. Start Applying for Jobs
When you have the right education, skills, and experience, start applying for jobs like:
- Instructional Designer
- eLearning Developer
- Learning Experience Designer
- Training Specialist
Top 5 Companies That Hire Instructional Designers
- Amazon – Hires to create corporate training programs for employees and customers.
- Google – Google Offers roles for employee training and educational initiatives.
- Microsoft – Hires to develop digital learning materials for employees and users.
- Deloitte – Hires them to create eLearning and corporate training programs.
- IBM – Offers opportunities in instructional design for employee development and client training.
Starting Salary of an Instructional Designer
As a fresher, you can earn around $50,000 to $70,000 per Year. The salary depends on education, location, company, and experience. Some industries, like technical and finance, may pay more. Also, experience with strong technical skills in e-learning software can earn more. here is a general idea of the starting salaries:
- Entry-level (0-2 years experience): $50,000 – $70,000 per year
- Mid-level (3-5 years experience): $70,000 – $85,000 per year
- Senior-level (5+ years experience): $85,000 – $100,000+ per year
Final Thoughts
Becoming an instructional designer is a great career for people who love learning and technology. Gaining the right education, skills, and experience you can get the best job in this field. You can work for a company or as a freelancer, and the pay is good. If you are interested, start learning today and create a portfolio to show your skills.
