‘Ohana, Tech, and the Realities of International Virtual Instructional Design: A Project-Based Introduction for Emerging Professionals

How does a person gain instructional design experience? With a seemingly rampant increase in the need for instructional designers across all industries and fields, perhaps largely influenced by the pandemic, those interested in venturing into the field can face challenges with how to enter it. In this session, we share a project-based initiative designed to introduce emerging professionals with instructional design experience. Scholarship on professional development illustrates the value of developmental opportunities for increased retention, confidence, community development, and succession planning. But, what does this look like for individuals interested in exploring new fields and potentially new careers? Literature illustrates the value of investing in professional development for employees or potential employees through workshops, internships, or community-networking events, and more. At this session, we provide lessons learned from a virtual development initiative based on virtual facilitation, community of practice, and project-based learning. We also share several unexpected elements produced as a result of the initiative that might be considered for future endeavors.

Natalie Perez
University of Hawaii

Natalie Perez is a graduate student at the University of Hawaii in the Learning Design and Technology program. She has experience working in a variety of careers within Higher Education including tutoring consultant, online learning and support specialist, and distance education coordinator. Back in 2019, Natalie transitioned careers and joined a large corporation. She currently works as a Senior Instructional Designer and Global Program Manager. When she's not researching or designing, Natalie is outside, exploring the islands with her husband and toddler.

Sergio Brenes Pereira

Sergio Brenes is a nature lover and likes to spend time with family, friends and his pets surrounded by trees and fresh air. He is a student studying the Portuguese language and Graphic Design. Sergio also works as an Instructional Designer for a large Organization. Sergio’s background begins in the customer service field, in which he grew through diverse training and leadership roles. In his current role, Sergio ended up joining the backstage team that creates the magic for trainers and the learners.

Charlene van der Spuy

Charlene van der Spuy is a technology whizz and is constantly on the hunt for new gadgets to try out. She is currently upskilling herself to find better ways to improve both her own and others learning experiences in the elearning world. Charlene is also currently busy learning how to speak French. Her career background is vast ranging from administration to customer service, and through a number of various internships she was able to delve into the world of Instructional Design. When Charlene is not busy stretching her brain, she can be found down at the beach with her dog.

‘Ohana, Tech, and the Realities of International Virtual Instructional Design: A Project-Based Introduction for Emerging Professionals

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