I don't know about you, but once I felt like my resume and portfolio were ready to share with the corporate instructional design world I knew my next step was to start applying for jobs. This is the part that scared me the most. I knew the time I spent learning in the IDOL courses Academy had given me the tools to build a strong portfolio and transition my teaching resume to instructional design. If your resume and portfolio are not quite where you want them to be, check out these two great resources before jumping into your first interview. IDOL Resume Writing Guide and Build Your Online Portfolio are helpful if you are looking for a jumpstart.
I also felt confident in my ability to perform my instructional design skills once hired as an instructional designer in the corporate space. The problem was that I hadn’t interviewed in over 8 years and that was for a teaching position. I knew I needed to prepare for my...
You’re thinking of becoming an instructional designer, or maybe you’re ready to start applying for jobs. You think to yourself, how can I make myself stand out to employers? How can I build confidence as a new ID? The answer: a portfolio.
Yes, really.
The power of a portfolio unleashes all of your darkest fears. Creating a portfolio allows you to take that leap into the unknown, and scream, “this is me and I want everyone to know it!” The first step to getting over imposter syndrome is to believe in yourself; so what better way to put yourself out there than with an organized, visual representation of who you are?
Who are you exactly? You are a learner, curriculum developer, problem solver, eLearning developer, and instructional designer - and so much more!
Here’s a little backstory.
I am new to corporate and higher Ed instructional design. Most of my pre-ID professional experience was as a high school science teacher. After...
Podcasts are awesome
I have used peer review in all kinds of professional contexts, from teaching in higher education to my work consulting with clients on instructional design projects now. My many experiences with peer review have included teaching others how to use it, as well as giving and receiving peer review from others. From these experiences, I have learned that peer review can be a rewarding experience for all involved, but only if it is practiced with the intention and care it deserves. These are my tips for effective peer review for everyone.
Tip #1: Peer Reviewers Are Expert Reviewers
Peer review is the process of peers giving structured, focused feedback on in-progress work. In this context,...
Then, the Storyline for IDOLS® course came out and let me tell you! It was like the heavens were shining light on my self-doubt. It came equipped with several modules and a practice file. It was just what I needed to relieve my stress. And earning a...
I felt like a clumsy, awkward teenager trying to learn a new dance, a new style, and even a new language. I was attempting to blend in with a new culture, but in looking around, realized how much I still needed to learn before I could become a genuine part of this IDOL culture.
It was not long before I discovered...
“Instructional Designer? What’s that?” I’m sure you’ve heard that question too. Most people would assume that we are designers working with our palettes and rulers. Well, they’re not far from the truth; we’re not called designer for no reason. We design instruction, job aids and courses because we understand how people learn. And because we understand people, we know that the visual design of these contents is equally important.
In my last blog post, I wrote about the importance of good and accessible visual design and introduced some tips on how to get started. In this post, I will use practical examples to point out what bad and good designs are.
No, I’m not swearing, I’m quoting an acronym from my favourite graphic design book author, Robin Williams from The Non-Designer's Design Book. This page-turner has hundreds of images to point out the differences between amateurish and easily achievable professional-looking...
When IDOL courses Academy began this past January, I was very pregnant. In fact, my daughter was due during the second week of the course. Becoming an IDOL was something that I wanted badly, but I wasn’t sure that I would be able to meet my goals with a new baby and a two-year-old at home. I burn grilled cheese three of every five times I make it. How could I balance two children and the Academy?
Desperate to get a head start, I emailed Dr. Robin Sargent before the cohort began and asked her if there was anything that I could do. She replied with some great tips and reassured me that, “there is no behind in the Academy!” Because of her guidance, I was able to start IDOL courses Academy feeling confident and ahead. My daughter was born a little early (the second day of my IDOL cohort!) but I was ready for the challenge.
Here are a couple of Dr. Robin’s tips, and a few of my own, for setting yourself up for success.
...
So What is the #DoItMessy 14 Day Jumpstart?
The jumpstart is a...
50% Complete