Inside Higher Ed
Instructional Designer, Pardee Institute
Inside Higher Ed, Denver, Colorado, United States, 80285
Instructional Designer, Pardee Institute
Job No:
498540 Work Type:
Part-Time Staff (Temporary) Location:
Denver, CO Categories:
Instructional Support, Business Operations / Services, Admin / Executive / Office Support
Organizational Summary The Frederick S. Pardee Institute for International Futures houses the open‑source International Futures (IFs) platform, which uses system dynamics, econometrics, and other quantitative techniques to analyze interconnected macro‑level variables. IFs informs global policy debates on climate, conflict, development, and security. With 17 full‑time staff, ~100 students annually, and ~$1.6 million in sponsored research, the Institute supports a global community of multilateral organizations, governments, and practitioners.
Position Summary The Pardee Institute seeks a
part‑time, temporary Instructional Designer
to create fully asynchronous, high‑impact learning experiences that help professionals apply the International Futures (IFs) modeling tool.
Ideal Candidate Profile
Enjoys turning complex, technical content into clear, practical learning for busy professionals.
Works comfortably with subject‑matter experts and asks probing questions.
Cares about accessibility, clean UX, and data‑informed iteration.
Desires a flexible, remote, project‑based role with meaningful global impact.
Essential Functions
Analyze and Plan
Conduct rapid needs analysis with SMEs.
Clarify learner profiles, workflows, and success criteria.
Convert high‑level goals into measurable, module‑level learning objectives and assessment plans (backward design).
Design Learning Architecture
Sequence modules to manage cognitive load and build progressive complexity.
Create storyboards/outlines for 3–5‑minute micro‑lessons.
Define interaction patterns, reflection prompts, and practice activities.
Apply a toolkit of learning strategies to create engaging eLearning experiences.
Develop Content and Assets
Build SCORM/xAPI‑compliant modules (e.g., Articulate 360, Rise, Storyline).
Write scripts, on‑screen text, and alt text.
Create simple motion/diagram assets (Vyond‑style or equivalent).
Develop knowledge checks with targeted feedback and authentic tasks tied to IFs use cases.
Quality Assurance and Accessibility
Apply UDL and accessibility practices (color/contrast, keyboard navigation, captions/transcripts, alt text).
Use multimedia learning principles and cognitive load checks.
Coordinate peer/SME reviews and refine UX for clarity and ease of use.
Implementation and Iteration
Package and publish modules to the LMS/LRS; verify tracking and reporting.
Set up dashboards for completion, time‑on‑task, and item analysis.
Run lightweight pilots, analyze data, and deliver revisions to improve clarity, engagement, and performance.
Collaboration and Project Management
Maintain project schedules and track risks and issues.
Facilitate asynchronous reviews and communicate trade‑offs clearly.
Document key decisions for transparency and responsible interpretation of forecasts.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Generative AI use: experience using AI in eLearning workflows and ability to script, storyboard, and refine outputs to feel natural.
AI literacy: design prompts, iterate thoughtfully, apply guardrails to manage hallucinations and bias.
Tools & tech: proficiency with Articulate 360, Vyond‑style animation, basic image/video editing, SCORM/xAPI packaging, and LMS workflows.
Accessibility & UX: practice UDL and WCAG‑aligned habits; mobile‑first, low‑bandwidth design.
Content translation: turn complex modeling concepts into clear learning without oversimplification.
Writing & visualization: concise microcopy, plain‑language narration, and instructional graphics.
Collaboration & PM: structured storyboarding, version control, review cycles, and stakeholder facilitation; comfort working asynchronously.
Data‑informed iteration: use basic analytics to drive revisions.
Learning science & methods: adult learning theory, cognitive load, backward design, constructive alignment, microlearning, scenario‑based learning, authentic assessment design.
Required Qualifications
Current enrollment in a master's‑level Instructional Design, Learning Sciences, Educational Technology, Human‑Centered Design, or related program; OR 3‑5+ years of experience developing asynchronous eLearning for adult professionals with measurable outcomes.
Demonstrated portfolio showcasing microlearning, scenario‑based activities, assessment alignment, accessibility practices, and clean UX/interactions.
Preferred Qualifications
Master's degree in Instructional Design, Learning Sciences, or related field.
Experience designing for data/modeling tools, analytical software, or technical platforms.
Familiarity with or interest in International Futures (IFs) and systems‑thinking education.
Experience with xAPI analytics dashboards, light motion graphics, and diagram‑first explanations.
Background collaborating with research institutes, think tanks, or policy audiences.
Working Environment
Status:
Part‑time, temporary (contract or hourly).
Time commitment:
Estimated 20 hrs per week at project start, averaging closer to 15 hrs/week as projects progress.
Location:
Remote, with occasional meetings during Denver (Mountain Time) business hours.
Flexibility:
Schedule generally flexible as long as milestones and review windows are met.
Reporting and Collaboration
Reports to: Pardee Institute Director of Operations (with dotted line to the Director).
Collaborates with: IFs SMEs, project manager, LMS admin, and QA reviewers.
Physical Activities
Ability to work in front of a computer for extended periods.
Work Schedule The instructional designer may set their own schedule but must be available for at least two meetings per week and real‑time conversations with collaborators and supervisors. Outside scheduled windows, a response within the next business day is required.
Hourly Range $40.00–$55.00 per hour (target), up to $60.00 for exceptional candidates. The figure is a good faith estimate and may vary based on qualifications, budget, equity, and market information.
Benefits The position is non‑benefited. The University of Denver offers limited benefits for non‑benefited employees.
Application Deadline Applicants must submit materials by 11:00 p.m. (MST) January 4, 2025.
Special Instructions Candidates must apply online through jobs.du.edu. Only online applications are accepted.
Application Materials
Resume
Brief cover letter describing interest in the project and relevant experience
Portfolio or sample of relevant eLearning work (links or files)
Equal Opportunity Employer The University of Denver is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity and expression), marital, family, or parental status, pregnancy or related conditions, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran. The University does not discriminate and prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, age, religion, creed, disability, sex, marital status, and protective veteran status, and any other class of individuals protected under federal, state or local law, regulation or ordinance. For more information, see the University of Denver Non‑Discrimination Statement.
All offers of employment are contingent upon satisfactory completion of a criminal history background check.
To apply, visit
https://jobs.du.edu/en-us/job/498540 .
#J-18808-Ljbffr
498540 Work Type:
Part-Time Staff (Temporary) Location:
Denver, CO Categories:
Instructional Support, Business Operations / Services, Admin / Executive / Office Support
Organizational Summary The Frederick S. Pardee Institute for International Futures houses the open‑source International Futures (IFs) platform, which uses system dynamics, econometrics, and other quantitative techniques to analyze interconnected macro‑level variables. IFs informs global policy debates on climate, conflict, development, and security. With 17 full‑time staff, ~100 students annually, and ~$1.6 million in sponsored research, the Institute supports a global community of multilateral organizations, governments, and practitioners.
Position Summary The Pardee Institute seeks a
part‑time, temporary Instructional Designer
to create fully asynchronous, high‑impact learning experiences that help professionals apply the International Futures (IFs) modeling tool.
Ideal Candidate Profile
Enjoys turning complex, technical content into clear, practical learning for busy professionals.
Works comfortably with subject‑matter experts and asks probing questions.
Cares about accessibility, clean UX, and data‑informed iteration.
Desires a flexible, remote, project‑based role with meaningful global impact.
Essential Functions
Analyze and Plan
Conduct rapid needs analysis with SMEs.
Clarify learner profiles, workflows, and success criteria.
Convert high‑level goals into measurable, module‑level learning objectives and assessment plans (backward design).
Design Learning Architecture
Sequence modules to manage cognitive load and build progressive complexity.
Create storyboards/outlines for 3–5‑minute micro‑lessons.
Define interaction patterns, reflection prompts, and practice activities.
Apply a toolkit of learning strategies to create engaging eLearning experiences.
Develop Content and Assets
Build SCORM/xAPI‑compliant modules (e.g., Articulate 360, Rise, Storyline).
Write scripts, on‑screen text, and alt text.
Create simple motion/diagram assets (Vyond‑style or equivalent).
Develop knowledge checks with targeted feedback and authentic tasks tied to IFs use cases.
Quality Assurance and Accessibility
Apply UDL and accessibility practices (color/contrast, keyboard navigation, captions/transcripts, alt text).
Use multimedia learning principles and cognitive load checks.
Coordinate peer/SME reviews and refine UX for clarity and ease of use.
Implementation and Iteration
Package and publish modules to the LMS/LRS; verify tracking and reporting.
Set up dashboards for completion, time‑on‑task, and item analysis.
Run lightweight pilots, analyze data, and deliver revisions to improve clarity, engagement, and performance.
Collaboration and Project Management
Maintain project schedules and track risks and issues.
Facilitate asynchronous reviews and communicate trade‑offs clearly.
Document key decisions for transparency and responsible interpretation of forecasts.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Generative AI use: experience using AI in eLearning workflows and ability to script, storyboard, and refine outputs to feel natural.
AI literacy: design prompts, iterate thoughtfully, apply guardrails to manage hallucinations and bias.
Tools & tech: proficiency with Articulate 360, Vyond‑style animation, basic image/video editing, SCORM/xAPI packaging, and LMS workflows.
Accessibility & UX: practice UDL and WCAG‑aligned habits; mobile‑first, low‑bandwidth design.
Content translation: turn complex modeling concepts into clear learning without oversimplification.
Writing & visualization: concise microcopy, plain‑language narration, and instructional graphics.
Collaboration & PM: structured storyboarding, version control, review cycles, and stakeholder facilitation; comfort working asynchronously.
Data‑informed iteration: use basic analytics to drive revisions.
Learning science & methods: adult learning theory, cognitive load, backward design, constructive alignment, microlearning, scenario‑based learning, authentic assessment design.
Required Qualifications
Current enrollment in a master's‑level Instructional Design, Learning Sciences, Educational Technology, Human‑Centered Design, or related program; OR 3‑5+ years of experience developing asynchronous eLearning for adult professionals with measurable outcomes.
Demonstrated portfolio showcasing microlearning, scenario‑based activities, assessment alignment, accessibility practices, and clean UX/interactions.
Preferred Qualifications
Master's degree in Instructional Design, Learning Sciences, or related field.
Experience designing for data/modeling tools, analytical software, or technical platforms.
Familiarity with or interest in International Futures (IFs) and systems‑thinking education.
Experience with xAPI analytics dashboards, light motion graphics, and diagram‑first explanations.
Background collaborating with research institutes, think tanks, or policy audiences.
Working Environment
Status:
Part‑time, temporary (contract or hourly).
Time commitment:
Estimated 20 hrs per week at project start, averaging closer to 15 hrs/week as projects progress.
Location:
Remote, with occasional meetings during Denver (Mountain Time) business hours.
Flexibility:
Schedule generally flexible as long as milestones and review windows are met.
Reporting and Collaboration
Reports to: Pardee Institute Director of Operations (with dotted line to the Director).
Collaborates with: IFs SMEs, project manager, LMS admin, and QA reviewers.
Physical Activities
Ability to work in front of a computer for extended periods.
Work Schedule The instructional designer may set their own schedule but must be available for at least two meetings per week and real‑time conversations with collaborators and supervisors. Outside scheduled windows, a response within the next business day is required.
Hourly Range $40.00–$55.00 per hour (target), up to $60.00 for exceptional candidates. The figure is a good faith estimate and may vary based on qualifications, budget, equity, and market information.
Benefits The position is non‑benefited. The University of Denver offers limited benefits for non‑benefited employees.
Application Deadline Applicants must submit materials by 11:00 p.m. (MST) January 4, 2025.
Special Instructions Candidates must apply online through jobs.du.edu. Only online applications are accepted.
Application Materials
Resume
Brief cover letter describing interest in the project and relevant experience
Portfolio or sample of relevant eLearning work (links or files)
Equal Opportunity Employer The University of Denver is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity and expression), marital, family, or parental status, pregnancy or related conditions, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran. The University does not discriminate and prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, age, religion, creed, disability, sex, marital status, and protective veteran status, and any other class of individuals protected under federal, state or local law, regulation or ordinance. For more information, see the University of Denver Non‑Discrimination Statement.
All offers of employment are contingent upon satisfactory completion of a criminal history background check.
To apply, visit
https://jobs.du.edu/en-us/job/498540 .
#J-18808-Ljbffr