What is instructional engineer?

An instructional engineer is a specialist who applies engineering principles and systematic processes to the design, development, implementation, and evaluation of learning experiences. They're essentially problem-solvers who focus on making learning more effective and efficient. Instead of building physical structures, they build learning experiences.

Here's a breakdown of what they do:

* Needs Analysis: They begin by identifying the learning needs of a target audience. This might involve surveys, interviews, or analyzing performance data to determine knowledge gaps and desired learning outcomes.

* Design & Development: Based on the needs analysis, they design learning materials and strategies. This can include creating online courses, developing training programs, designing simulations, writing instructional text, and selecting appropriate learning technologies. They consider instructional design theories and principles (like ADDIE, SAM, or Agile) to structure their work.

* Implementation: They oversee the implementation of the learning experiences, ensuring the materials are accessible and the learning environment is conducive to effective learning. This often involves collaborating with subject matter experts, graphic designers, programmers, and other stakeholders.

* Evaluation: They rigorously evaluate the effectiveness of the learning experience using various methods like assessments, surveys, and performance monitoring. They analyze the data to identify areas for improvement and iterate on the design to optimize learning outcomes.

In short, instructional engineers are skilled in both instructional design and technical skills. They bridge the gap between learning theory and practical application, creating engaging and effective learning solutions for diverse audiences and contexts. They're often found in corporate training departments, educational institutions, and technology companies.