Note: This is the self-paced version of the course. Interested in joining the cohort-based course to participate along with other instructional designers? We're currently accepting enrollment for the next cohort here!
The most effective online courses are designed by instructional designers and SMEs who are on the same page. When these two parties both feel that they have an equal voice in the conversation and a partnership is established, the best possible learning experience is achieved.
It is worth emphasizing the use of the word “equal”. If you successfully establish boundaries and guidelines, the project will run more smoothly. Common struggles, such as tension due to disengagement from SMEs or conflict around the validity of online courses as effective teaching methods, can lead to chaos in the design process. While most instructional design courses will teach about designing curricula, utilizing theories, and applying concepts, the topic of collaborating with SMEs doesn’t receive as much attention.
"A true instructional designer is a relationship manager. I believe that my ability to collaborate with SMEs is a significant reason why my courses receive high student praise and feedback. In this course, I’ll describe everything I know about working with SMEs that have different kinds of personalities." - Dr. Luke Hobson
By the end of this course, you'll develop actionable steps to ensure that you can build strong professional relationships from the instructional designer perspective. You'll learn from real-life examples from other instructional designers, and receive personalized feedback from Luke about cultivating a collaborative relationship with SMEs that you currently work with now as well as in the future. By the end of this course, you’ll be able to have a mind-meld connection with any SME.
Establishing a relationship
During this module, Luke shares his tips for building a solid working relationship with a SME.
💡 Learn about
∙ Getting to know the SME
∙ Explaining your role
∙ Managing preferences
⚡️ Engage
∙ Meet and greet call
∙ Discussion about empathizing with a SME
∙ Discussion about feedback
∙ Peer review submission where you describe your role and get feedback
∙ Reflect on your own style
influencing and caring about the experience
Luke introduces strategies and tactics for a more successful collaborative experience during the development of a course.
💡 Learn about
∙ Demoing a course
∙ Removing barriers and explaining the design process
∙ Setting deadlines and expectations
∙ Giving feedback to the SME
∙ Working with challenging SMEs
∙ Celebrating achievements
⚡️ Engage
∙ Submit a demo for peer review
∙ Practice giving feedback
∙ Discuss listening skills
Are there any live sessions? Will I get to meet Luke?
There are no live sessions in this course - this allows for more flexibility in allowing participants to start at anytime. However, Luke will give you direct, personalized feedback on your work in this course.
Will I get feedback from Luke directly?
Yes! Luke will review your main assignments and offer insights and personalized feedback to you.