E-Learning Developer
Job Description:E-learning developers create course materials that can be studied on a computer network or online.
Job Category:What you will do:
As an E-learning developer, you could:
- Build and maintain online training areas known as virtual learning environments (VLEs)
- Adapt off-the-shelf VLE products
- Talk with users to find out about their training needs
- Work with tutors, trainers or development teams to create online learning materials
- Create interactive multimedia like video clips
- Modify content for use on other platforms, like mobile phones or tablets
- Make sure security measures are in place to control access
- Stay up to date with the latest design methods and technologies
Skills:
You’ll need:
- Knowledge of teaching and the ability to design courses
- Knowledge of English language
- The ability to create the best conditions for learning or teaching new things
- To be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
As well as:
Entry Requirements:
To become an E-learning Developer, you’ll need a combination of technical and creative skills, which can be developed through a variety of GCSE subjects. E-learning development typically involves designing and creating online educational content, which may include multimedia elements, interactive modules, and assessments. Here are some GCSE subjects that can be beneficial for aspiring E-learning Developers:
- Computing or Computer Science: These subjects can provide you with a strong foundation in programming, web development, and the technical skills needed to create e-learning platforms and content.
- Design and Technology: This subject can help you develop skills in design, graphics, and multimedia, which are essential for creating visually appealing and engaging e-learning materials.
- Art and Design: Courses in art and design can help you develop creativity, visual design skills, and an understanding of aesthetics, all of which are important for creating engaging e-learning content.
- Mathematics: Strong math skills are useful for various aspects of e-learning development, such as handling data, creating simulations, and working with complex algorithms in certain educational software.
- English Language: Effective communication is crucial in e-learning, as you’ll need to convey complex concepts and instructions clearly. A strong command of English can help you create engaging and error-free content.
- Science or a specific subject: Depending on the field of e-learning you’re interested in, having a background in a particular subject area (e.g., biology, chemistry, physics) can be advantageous if you plan to develop educational content in that domain.
- ICT (Information and Communication Technology): This subject can provide you with valuable skills in using software applications and technology tools commonly used in e-learning development.
While these subjects can be beneficial, remember that the field of e-learning development is multidisciplinary, and it’s more important to develop specific skills and gain experience in using e-learning authoring tools, multimedia software, and instructional design principles.
Post School
You can get into this job through:
- A university course
- A college course
- An apprenticeship
- Working towards this role
University
You can do a foundation degree or degree in:
- Computing
- Multimedia design
- Educational technology
If you already have a degree or relevant work experience, you can do a postgraduate qualification in e-learning technology.
College
You could do a college course, which may lead onto more advanced qualifications or a higher apprenticeship, or help you to get a trainee position with a company. Courses include:
- Higher certificate in Computing
- Grade 11 or 12 Certificate in Programming
- Grade 12 in Digital Production, Design and Development
- Grade 11 or 12 Certificate in Web Design and Development
Apprenticeship
You may be able to do a Digital Learning Designer Level 5 Higher Apprenticeship.
This can take around 2 years to complete.
Work
- You could start out as a junior developer or e-learning assistant, if you’ve got computing A levels or equivalent.
- You’ll also need a working knowledge of web design software.
Building a portfolio of e-learning projects and demonstrating your ability to create effective educational content will also be key to securing e-learning developer roles.
Working Hours and Environment:
A typical week consists of 37-39 hours of work. You could be required to work evenings and will usually work in an office.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience you could
- Progress to a senior development role, IT project management, e-learning research, strategy planning, technical sales and business development.
- Move into related areas like educational or training consultancy, educational software development, systems analysis or the computer games industry.