In my experience, there are three main strategies for becoming an eLearning professional – Learn, Apply, and Change. But you must be willing to pay the price and use these strategies:
- Learn – Make it a priority to learn new technologies, theories and processes for creating effective eLearning. When I became an instructional designer at a large university, I immediately became responsible for creating and managing literally dozens of online courses. I made it a point to constantly learn relevant, new eLearning technologies so that I was better prepared to design and develop effective materials for my courses.
- Apply – Be sure to use the technologies, processes, and theories you have learned. Learning is only effective if you apply it, so be sure to apply what you have learned. In many of the eLearning courses I have developed, I have found it necessary to apply unique technologies and theories to unique design problems. By forcing myself to use these new technologies and approaches, I have gained more flexibility and strength in what I can do as an eLearning developer.
- Improve – To remain creative and competitive, it is crucial that you change, adapt and grow as an eLearning professional. Hold yourself to high standards! Learn from your mistakes! Improve on your success! In my career, I have always sought ways that I can make myself more valuable to the organization and people I serve. I am far from perfect, but by constantly working to make myself better, I am moving closer and closer to the ideal.
The most effective, successful professionals are constantly learning, they take the time to apply what they have learned, and they continually work to improve themselves. Do everything you can to use these strategies, and you will find great success as an eLearning professional!