What is an Educational Designer?

Educational designers (often called instructional designers or learning designers in universities) are specialist staff focused on improving teaching and learning. They work at the intersection of pedagogy, curriculum, and technology, providing expertise in course design, faculty collaboration, and learning technology integration . In essence, they are part of a growing group of “non faculty educators” who partner with academic staff to develop and teach courses, serving as key members of course design teams across both online and on-campus programs . An educational designer’s core mission is to translate evidence-based teaching practices and learning science into effective curriculum and student learning experiences. They often act as “teachers of teachers,” coaching instructors on how to design engaging courses and adopt new pedagogical strategies . By bridging academic expertise and instructional methodology, educational designers help ensure that higher education courses are well-structured, pedagogically sound, and aligned with institutional goals .

An educational designer in a university setting is a multifaceted professional: part instructional expert, part project manager, part coach, and part innovator. Their day-to-day involves close collaboration with academics to design curriculum and improve teaching, whether through developing online courses, introducing new pedagogies, or supporting faculty development. They draw on a rich background in education and often personal teaching experience to connect with instructors. A successful educational designer combines academic credibility, pedagogical know-how, technical savvy, and people skills to effect positive change in higher education. When these elements come together, educational designers become linchpins in their institutions – quietly driving improvements in course quality, helping faculty excel in their teaching roles, and ultimately enhancing student learning outcomes.

Qualifications, Experience, and Common Pathways

Key Responsibilities and Day-to-Day Activities

Common Projects and Areas of Focus

Collaboration with Academic Staff and Faculties

Skills and Qualities of Successful Educational Designers

Further Reading