Can Teachers Be Effective Instructional Designers?

Hello Efrayim,

I'm wondering if I'm missing something. It seems to me that teachers can make good anything for which they have an aptitude, just like the rest of us. If you have a teacher who is a good instructional designer, assuming this is what you want, count yourself lucky and capitalize on your good fortune.

If your teacher happens to be one of those unfortunate individuals who can’t do so they teach, they do exist. It’s a good time to bail out if you can. However, I’d say try to find out which you’ve got before you commit yourself. There's no point in wasting a year if you can help it.

Are Teachers Naturally Suitable for Instructional Design?

Teachers CAN be effective instructional designers. I, too, was a teacher before earning my instructional design degree. Just because someone is a teacher doesn't automatically translate to being a good instructional designer. What's important is not the title but the skills and the ability to apply instructional design methodologies.

For instance, a teacher who teaches from a prescribed curriculum and doesn't develop custom curriculum lacks the skill set. Similarly, a teacher who only works with adolescents and not with adults needs to learn about adult learning theory. Adolescents and adults don't learn the same way. Thus, teachers can be good instructional designers, but they need to continue their education to become experts in facilitation and in how learners learn.

Common Misconceptions and Realities

I've seen both cases: bad teachers who are also ineffective instructional designers and effective instructional designers who were not good teachers. Just because you teach, it doesn’t mean you are an instructional designer. Instructional design implies the use of practices and theory to find the best way to deliver content, which is a different skill set from teaching.

Continued Education and Adaptability

The field of instructional design is constantly evolving with advancements in educational technology. Therefore, it's crucial for teachers to continually educate themselves and adapt to these changes. Continuous professional development ensures that teachers are equipped with the latest tools and strategies to design effective learning experiences.

Moreover, a teacher must be able to understand and apply various instructional design models and theories. This includes being proficient in assessing learning objectives, designing assessments, choosing appropriate delivery methods, and evaluating the effectiveness of the instructional materials. These skills are essential for both teaching and instructional design, but the execution and focus can differ significantly.

Conclusion

In summary, teachers CAN be effective instructional designers, but they must possess the necessary skills and be willing to invest time and effort in continuous learning and adaptation. Being a good instructional designer requires a blend of pedagogical knowledge and educational technology expertise. It's a combination that can be achieved through dedication, passion, and a commitment to lifelong learning.

Therefore, if you are considering whether a teacher can be an effective instructional designer, look for those who demonstrate a willingness to learn and evolve.