The Show Notes
Do you love the process of learning? Do you get fulfillment from finding a new learning tool that makes all the difference for a struggling student?
Then you are going to love hearing from our guest, Becca Pike. Becca is a current instructional designer and corporate trainer. Even though she did pursue a master’s in instructional design, she had a messy path getting to her dream job.
Learn why Becca’s messy path actually ended up being a series of gifts of personal insight that allowed her to find a career that combined all of her passions in one amazing job!
Falling in Love with Learning
You might identify with Becca in that she personally loves learning and being part of the process of learning for students. She has had opportunities to teach elementary students as well as adults in the context of her church. She couldn’t tell you which one she loves most. They are both so fulfilling!
If you ask Becca why she enjoys instructional design so much, she would tell you that she loves being able to keep the learner as the focus of every lesson. The psychology of learning is fascinating to her. And when you don’t have state testing, parent conferences, and committee meetings, you really can focus exclusively on creating an amazing experience for students.
An Anything But Linear Path
There are plenty of people who have quickly found a great job after leaving the classroom, but sometimes the process is really messy. Sometimes teaching can become a huge part of your identity. Without the classroom, you can feel really lost.
Becca had a series of jobs from office jobs to working part-time with students as she explored her interests. She was mindful about each experience and took note of what parts of a job she loved and which parts she could do without. Though the process was a bit of a roller coaster, she was always on an upward trajectory, each time a little closer to her work in instructional design.
What a Day on the Job Looks Like Now
Becca has had a lot of experience in both instructional design and training roles. Becca is responsible for helping teachers learn how to properly use technology in the classroom.
For example, she might show a third-grade teacher how to collaboratively work on a Google Doc for a group project. She helps teachers incorporate new tools in their instruction that don’t just replace traditional methods-they create new learning experiences.
Becca also shares how she has been in charge of directing projects for libraries or museums where they were responsible for creating a learning experience that would be self-directed and can be effective without a facilitator present. What a fun new challenge, right?
Key Takeaways for Teachers Who Want to Work in Instructional Design
Becca’s advice for teachers who are looking for a new challenge are focused on the reflection necessary on their journey.
- Understand that a messy path can offer a lot of insight. It can be super frustrating not being able to find a good fit the first time around. It can also feel like you’re not making progress, but don’t forget to give yourself some grace and realize that when you know better, you do better. Take time to reflect on job experiences so that your next decision can be informed.
- Take time to identify what you are really passionate about. A dream job rarely just falls in your lap. But when you know your strengths and your passions, you can pursue opportunities that make you come alive most.
Does any part of Becca’s story resonate with yours? Do you like the sound of the work she does on a daily basis? Or do you just feel more affirmed that you are on the right track? If you’re ready to explore the possibility of pursuing a career as an instructional designer, I want to hear from you! What questions do you have? And how can I support you?
Ready to Become an Instructional Designer Too?
If you enjoyed this episode I invite you to take a screenshot and tag me on your Instagram stories @teachertransition and tell me your biggest takeaway!
Want to know what other work opportunities you might love beyond the classroom? Click here to get the FREE Top Jobs for Teachers download.
A Breakdown of This Episode:
- [3:17] Discover what Becca loved most about the teaching profession
- [07:20] Find out why all Becca's odd jobs were still driving her towards her dream job when she was in the exploration stage
- [16:47] Learn how Becca developed a new love for technology
- [25:37] Would you be interested in designing this type of learning experience?
- [32:40] How Becca puts theory to practice by supporting teachers in their classrooms
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Resources Mentioned in the Show
Ready to dive into YOUR career in instructional design? Click HERE to enroll in the course- From Teacher to Instructional Designer today!
Connect with Becca Pike
