One of the questions my students often ask me is: How do you stay current with trends in instructional design?
As someone who primarily teaches instructional design these days, staying up to date is a crucial part of my work. It’s not just about keeping my courses relevant; it’s about ensuring that I can guide my students in preparing for the future of our field. This semester, I’m teaching a course on learning theories and another on multimedia project design. Both require an understanding of not only current trends but also the underlying theories that form the foundation of effective design.
So how do I stay current? For me, it comes down to three key traits: curiosity, humility, and fearlessness.
Curiosity
Curiosity drives me to explore how instructional designers are creating innovative learning experiences and solving design challenges. I’m always on the lookout for new ideas and techniques, whether that’s through reading articles, participating in webinars, or engaging with the work of other designers. This curiosity helps me not only stay informed but also continuously expand my understanding of what’s possible in our field.
Humility
Humility plays a big role in my approach to learning. I’ve learned that my students are an incredible source of knowledge and expertise. Some of them have skills in areas where I don’t, such as video production. I’m not afraid to lean on their experiences and learn from them. This reciprocal relationship enriches the learning environment and reminds me that growth comes from being open to what others can teach you.
Fearlessness
Finally, fearlessness has been key to my professional development. I’ve learned not to shy away from reaching out to others in the field—whether that’s on social media or through my podcast. The podcast, in particular, has been a transformative tool. It’s allowed me to connect with thought leaders and practitioners by simply asking them to have a conversation. These connections have broadened my network and deepened my understanding of instructional design trends and practices.
Putting It All Together
Staying current as an instructional designer isn’t just about consuming information; it’s about fostering a mindset that prioritizes curiosity, humility, and fearlessness. By embracing these values, I’m able to keep my teaching fresh and relevant while continuously learning from the vibrant and ever-evolving community of instructional design professionals.
If you’re looking to stay current, start by nurturing your curiosity, embracing opportunities to learn from others, and being fearless in reaching out to make connections. You might be surprised by how much you can grow—and how much you can inspire your students in the process.
Leave a Reply