Instructional designers have long been the unsung heroes of digital learning, often navigating the complexities of educational technology, curriculum design, and faculty training with quiet dedication. Instructional design superpowers were clearly on display during the pandemic and are continually being called upon as technologies like generative AI continue to transform society at a rapid pace.
As digital learning has evolved from a novelty to a necessity, instructional design professionals (who go by many titles, but know they’re designers at heart) find themselves at the forefront of leading change, tasked with guiding institutions through significant transformations. Their ability to anticipate change, lead teams, and introduce new strategies is vital in keeping up with the rapid advancements in the field.
The theme of this year’s Instructional Design Summit at the 2024 OLC Accelerate Conference, “Pioneers of Change: Leading Innovation in Instructional Design,” emphasizes the evolving role of instructional designers as agents of change. Although they may not always have formal authority, their influence shapes key decisions and inspires new directions at the variety of institutions across the education ecosystem.
What follows is a brief preview of the engaging sessions that will inspire instructional designers to lead the charge in innovation and growth, with a focus on curiosity, leadership, and career development.
Curiosity as a Catalyst for Change
Many instructional designers found themselves into the field by way of curiosity. Curiosity is a powerful tool for leadership and innovation. While often considered a personal trait, curiosity can be cultivated as a leadership skill that fosters an environment where team members are encouraged to question assumptions, explore possibilities, and challenge the status quo.
Leaders who inspire curiosity enable their teams to embrace change and adopt innovative solutions that might otherwise be overlooked. Whether through leveraging new tools such as artificial intelligence or reimagining the learning experience, instructional designers can harness the power of curiosity to push the boundaries of digital learning.
To explore how curiosity can drive meaningful innovation, join the session “Igniting Curiosity for Innovative Learning,” led by Sean Nufer and Mark Labbett from The Community Solution Education System and Katt Fisne from the American Public University System. Participants will discover strategies for sparking curiosity in their institutions and learn how to lead teams through transitions.
Leadership that Inspires Change
Leadership in instructional design is about inspiring people to think differently, embrace creativity, and collaborate effectively. Leadership also requires a practical approach to problem-solving, especially when guiding cross-functional teams in the fast-paced world of digital learning.
Visionary leaders know that fostering an environment where creativity can flourish is essential for driving innovation. Effective leaders know how to bring together diverse perspectives, inspire collaboration, and harness the unique strengths of their teams.
At the summit, the session “Innovative Leadership for Instructional Designers,” led by CC Franklin, Amy Baird, and Marinda Ashman from Utah Valley University, will focus on how to lead teams through the creativity and collaboration process. Through De Bono’s 6 Thinking Hats framework, participants will explore ways to apply creative problem-solving and make decisive moves to drive innovation. By the end of this interactive session, you’ll have new strategies to inspire transformative change in your organization.
Navigating Your Career Path in Instructional Design
The field of instructional design offers a wide range of career opportunities, but navigating these opportunities requires careful planning and a clear understanding of the evolving demands in the field. Job titles, responsibilities, and required skills vary greatly across institutions, making it essential for professionals to continuously upskill and adapt to new trends.
For both new and seasoned instructional designers, mapping out a career pathway can feel daunting. Identifying the key competencies for future roles, leveraging professional development, and building a personal brand are critical components of long-term success in this field.
The session “Navigating Career Pathways in Instructional Design,” facilitated by Katie Wolfe-Burleson from Anderson University and Heidi Echols from UNC Charlotte, will focus on career growth and development within the instructional design landscape. The session will feature personal stories from experienced professionals, offering mentorship and guidance on how to navigate the field. Attendees will gain insights into the skills and competencies needed to succeed and explore various career trajectories that align with their goals. Whether you’re just starting or looking to advance, this session will provide the tools to map out your career path with confidence.
Design the Future of Digital Learning
As the digital learning landscape continues to evolve, instructional designers remain central to driving innovation and transformative change in education. The Instructional Design Summit at the 2024 OLC Accelerate Conference offers a unique opportunity to reflect on past successes, engage with current challenges, and chart a course for the future.
With a lineup of inspiring sessions focused on curiosity, leadership, and career development, this summit promises to be an invaluable resource for instructional designers at all stages of their careers. Join us for a morning of exploration, inspiration, and practical insights as we come together to lead the future of digital learning.
The summit is a timely celebration and gathering of instructional design superheroes. The Summit provides a space to explore the pressing challenges and opportunities instructional designers face today and equips them with practical tools and leadership strategies for the future. RSVP today when you register for the 2024 OLC Accelerate Conference and ensure your place at the Instructional Design Summit. Let’s shape the future of online learning together!