Last updated on Jul 13, 2024

Here's how you can navigate a career change to digital learning as a seasoned professional.

Embarking on a new career path can be daunting, especially in a field as dynamic as digital learning. However, leveraging your existing skills and expertise can make the transition smoother. Digital learning encompasses the use of digital tools and platforms to facilitate education and training. As a seasoned professional, you're likely to possess transferable skills such as project management, communication, or analytical thinking that can be invaluable in this sector. The key is to understand the landscape of digital learning, identify where your skills fit, and commit to continuous learning to stay abreast of the latest trends and technologies.

1 Assess Skills

Begin by taking stock of your current skill set and considering how it aligns with the needs of the digital learning industry. Skills like content creation, curriculum design, and understanding of learning management systems (LMS) are highly sought after. Reflect on your work experience to identify instances where you've demonstrated these abilities or where you could apply them in a new context. This self-assessment will not only boost your confidence but also help you pinpoint areas for growth, guiding your next steps towards acquiring the necessary digital learning competencies.

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Damfe Samuel

Learning Experience Designer
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Changing careers can be daunting but it's possible. I was an engineering student when I transitioned into E-learning. It was not easy navigating into instructional design without highlighting the core skills. When I assessed the skills I have that are core to instructional designer, transitioning became easier for me. What I did was to check the core skills am yet to acquire. Then, I took courses to learn those skills.

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2 Learn Basics

Next, familiarize yourself with the fundamentals of digital learning. This includes getting to know various e-learning platforms, understanding online course development, and grasping the principles of instructional design. There are numerous free resources available that can provide a solid foundation. Additionally, consider enrolling in introductory courses that can offer structured learning and a clearer understanding of the digital learning environment. This foundational knowledge will be crucial as you start to navigate the new terrain of your career path.

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Kwanesia Bass

Sr. Program Manager, Technical Learning | Enabling Digital Transformation through Innovative Learning Solutions and Change Management | Resume Writer
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One of the best ways that I found to get experience was to leverage the current role that one is in and ask for tasks related to training, documentation, and skilling. For me, that looked like as an analyst requesting the ability to train stakeholders. It was asking to walk my end users through steps, it was creating system walkthroughs, and how-to guides. This allowed me to build not only a portfolio but allowed others within the company to see me as a learning SME. This opened the door to applying for an internal training position and eventually moving into the strategy side of l&d a few short years later.

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3 Network Online

Networking is pivotal in any career change. For digital learning, start by joining online communities and professional groups related to e-learning and educational technology. Engage in discussions, share your insights, and ask questions. This will not only expand your understanding of the field but also connect you with potential mentors, collaborators, and employers. Remember, your unique perspective as a seasoned professional adds value to these communities, so don't hesitate to contribute your thoughts and experiences.

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4 Gain Experience

Practical experience is invaluable. Look for opportunities to volunteer or take on part-time roles that allow you to work on digital learning projects. This could involve helping a local school develop online resources or assisting a non-profit with their e-training modules. Such hands-on experiences will give you a taste of the field's challenges and rewards while building a portfolio that demonstrates your commitment and skills to potential employers.

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5 Update Resume

When you're ready to apply for roles in digital learning, ensure your resume reflects the career change you're pursuing. Highlight relevant skills and experiences, and consider creating a section dedicated to any digital learning projects or certifications you've completed. Tailor your resume to emphasize how your background equips you to excel in digital learning. Using the right terminology and focusing on transferable skills will help bridge the gap between your past experience and your new career aspirations.

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6 Continuous Learning

In the ever-evolving field of digital learning, continuous professional development is critical. Stay current with industry trends by subscribing to relevant blogs, attending webinars, and participating in online courses that advance your knowledge. This commitment to lifelong learning will not only enhance your expertise but also signal to employers that you are adaptable and proactive about staying at the forefront of digital learning innovations.

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Here's how you can navigate a career change to digital learning as a seasoned professional.

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Assess Skills

2 Learn Basics

3 Network Online

4 Gain Experience

5 Update Resume

6 Continuous Learning

Digital Learning

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Here's how you can navigate a career change to digital learning as a seasoned professional.

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Assess Skills

2 Learn Basics

3 Network Online

4 Gain Experience

5 Update Resume

6 Continuous Learning

Digital Learning

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

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