instructional designers

Instructional designers share an evolving role, research finds


As demand for online education grows, so, too, does the demand for instructional designers on campus

The demand for instructional design professionals in higher education has soared in recent years, due in part to an increase in online and blended courses across the U.S., according to new research.

A whitepaper from Elaine Beirne (Dublin City University) and Matthew P. Romanoski (The University of Arizona) takes a look at the growing field of instructional design in higher ed, and also explores the reasons behind the field’s growth and how instructional designers function in their role.

While the field of instructional design isn’t new, it has evolved over decades to meet unique and changing demands of faculty, institutions, and students.

More students, particularly nontraditional students with work and family obligations, are seeking more flexible learning formats. The 2017 Survey of Online Learning shows that nearly one-third of all higher-ed enrollments include at least one online course.

Laura Ascione

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