List of e-Learning Job Descriptions

One of the toughest challenges in running an e-learning project is finding the right talent and ensuring they fit into the roles and expectations of the team. The list below is a good starting point to identify roles, responsibilities and qualifications.

List of Roles and Job Functions in e-Learning Development
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Project Champion and Leader

Principal areas of responsibility

Strategy for e-Learning

Managing the total process of group contributions

Oversees Readiness Study, Viability Study, Learning Strategies(See chart above)

To set strategies for e-Learning Corporate-wide initiatives.

To promote innovation in the use of e-Learning/ILT benefit learning, teaching and research throughout the curriculum.

To enable and support all staff in the training and business curriculum changes needed to utilize new technologies and learning materials.

MAIN DUTIES:

1. Reviews the Company’s programs of teaching and learning to assess their potential for on-line delivery and advise appropriate managers on which areas of the curriculum can be redesigned/enhanced using ILT and e-Learning.

2. Liaises with the Director of IT to lead in the implementation and further development of the Company’s ILT strategies relating to e-Learning and prioritizes activity.

3. Leads the ‘ILT Champion’ initiative in relation to e-Learning.

4. Leads appropriate committees, managers and staff as required to develop policy and ensure that the curriculum is supported and delivered by ILT.

5. Works with various faculty, SMEs, trainers and other experts in the continued development of the corporate vision of maximizing e-Learning.

6. Plans for capital spending, staffing, training, skills acquisition, organization of the team, managing e-learning project teams.
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Project Team Leader

Principal Areas of responsibility

Assist in strategy for e-Learning

Lead project team/s

Leads Readiness Study, Viability Study, Learning Strategies

Establish Learning Architecture

Defines project staff, technical requirements, features and functions

The project manager is the person who ultimately guarantees on-time, on-budget delivery of an e-learning solution. He or she is responsible to the sponsor/client for the quality of the finished product. The management and coaching of all other team members is left to the project manager, who serves as the single point of contact between disparate team members and, in the case of an outsourced project, the client. The project manager guides the approval process, including obtaining feedback from evaluations, implementing revisions, and drafting progress reports.

Good organization skills, time management, and the ability to juggle multiple tasks are all prerequisites of an effective project manager. Other positive attributes include:

· Experience in multiple backgrounds (jack-of-all-trades).
· Experience in full e-Learning development process
· Basic understanding of technical, design, and media issues
· Knowledge of the fundamentals of WBT instructional design
· Mastery of financial fundamentals
· Proficiency using scheduling, productivity, and communication tools including GANNT charts, spreadsheets, and conferencing technologies
· Good leadership and persuasion skills

Other short descriptions

The Project Manager supervises the overall e-learning process, including: design, production, delivery, evaluation, budgeting, staffing, and scheduling. He/she works with coordinators of various e-learning teams.

Project managers are the formal leaders who manage the work, processes, and communication within the team. Budget and resource allocation decisions and scheduling also are duties of the project manager. In addition to managing the daily chores of the group, an effective (and successful) project manager needs to create a collaborative culture that's free from hidden agendas, dominance in one area of expertise, and infighting.

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WBT Instructional Designer

Principal areas of responsibility

Course Design

Process for e-Learning

Learning Objectives

Design Process

Storyboarding

Works with SMEs, Artists, Programmers

Develops instructional material, coordinates, writes and edits educational content, and incorporates current technology for educators developing specific curricula.

Evaluates and confirms learning objectives through ongoing needs assessments.

Performs design, development, execution and evaluation.

Designs and develops supporting aides for print, classroom and on-the-job training materials.

Other similar titles: Instructional Coordinator, Educational Consultant, Instructional Material Director, Human Resource Specialist, Instructional Design Technology Specialist

Skills:
Experience working with e-learning and blended learning programs, web-based training development, and asynchronous learning content.

Job Description / Responsibilities:
· Develops Application Training specific to instructional content for web-based training materials.
· Participates in the needs assessment, design and development of product and role specific curriculum road maps and high-level designs.
· Interacts with SMEs in planning and scoping requirements for curriculum
· Functions on curriculum teams and independently in the design, development, and testing of instructional materials.
· Reviews and tests new and revised curriculum offerings from other team members, providing feedback and suggestions for improvement; contributes to new curriculum or program ideas.
· Participates in beta deliveries of new courses; occasional travel overseas for pilot support
· Develops course descriptions and related course-specific marketing documents and tools
· Contributes to storyboarding, authoring, and development of e-learning content and blended learning solutions.

Qualifications:
· Minimum of 3 years in the technology industry or a technology department. Two or more years solid experience in a functional training role with emphasis on technology and business process training development and design.
· Proven track record in developing original and innovative technical and related process training programs, workshops and demonstrations; experience developing instructor-led training materials and self-paced learning content.
· Experience working with e-learning and blended learning programs, web-based training development, and asynchronous learning content.
· Foundation knowledge and understanding of learning theory and instructional design techniques.
· Excellent written and verbal English skills for the purpose of documentation development, curriculum development, editing and communication.
· Complete fluency in English required. Other language skills welcome, but not required.
· Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications including Word and PowerPoint, particularly as used in the development of instructional content.
· Highly self-motivated and self-managed; ability to work independently and as part of a team with minimal coaching or supervision.
· Ability to organize and work under strict time and production deadlines, while producing quality deliverables.
· Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a related instructional content, development, or delivery field, or equivalent industry experience or certification. Ability to travel up to 5% per month.

Additional responsibilities may also include:
· Works closely with internal employees to implement and maintain web-based training.
· Designs, develops, and deploys e-learning content based on business needs.
· Provides reporting to management on web-based training progression and completion, student usage, and instructor-led training completions.
· Provides technical support for the organization or educational institution. Implements and evaluates instruction for adult learners.
· Updates multi-media instructional design.

Other similar titles: E-Learning Developer, Learning Facilitator, E-Learning Curriculum Coordinator

Creative Writer, Editor, Story Teller, Proof Reader

Principal areas of responsibility

Also Acts as Quality Control for Content

Participates in Storyboarding

Writes content provided by SME and WBT instructional designers

Works with WBT Instructional Designer, Multimedia Specialists, and Programmers

Depending on the scope of the project, Writers and Editors are needed

Different types of projects need different types of writers. Sometimes the WBT developers can do the writing. But in successful projects, the writer is a separate person from the SME, WBT and other teams. Technical writers put technical information into easily understandable language. They prepare operating and maintenance manuals, catalogs, parts lists, assembly instructions, sales promotion materials, and project proposals. Many technical writers work with engineers on technical subject matters to prepare written interpretations of engineering and design specifications as well as other information for a general readership. Technical writers also may serve as part of a team conducting usability studies to help improve the design of a product that still is in the prototype stage. They plan and edit technical materials and oversee the preparation of illustrations, photographs, diagrams, and charts.

Narrative Creative Writers are those writers who are experienced in storytelling, games design and interactive designs. Editors review, rewrite, and edit the work of writers. They may also do original writing. An editor’s responsibilities vary with the employer and type and level of editorial position held. Editorial duties may include planning the content of books, technical journals, trade magazines, and other general-interest publications. Editors also decide what material will appeal to readers, review and edit drafts of books and articles, offer comments to improve the work, and suggest possible titles. In addition, they may oversee the production of the publications. In the book-publishing industry, an editor’s primary responsibility is to review proposals for books and decide whether to buy the publication rights from the author.
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Graphic Artist and Multimedia Specialist

Principal areas of responsibility

Participates in Storyboarding

User Interface

Creates Interactive Design

Graphical Design

Works with WBT Instructional Designer, Multimedia Specialists, and Programmers

Functions:
· Provides multimedia support for the e-Learning development team and internal clients.
· Creates graphics, animations, videos, and Web interfaces for Web portals, e-learning, and marketing and communications products.
· Conducts research and create prototypes of Web portals and e-learning products.
· Conceptualizes, designs, and produces graphics demonstrating complex technical constructs and concepts.
· Creates interactive or animated graphics and videos using a variety of tools, including the Adobe Creative Suite, including Flash, Dreamweaver, Fireworks, Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, as well as 3D Studio Max, and simulation tools, including Captivate, Articulate, and Camstasia.
· Collaborates and communicates with other developers, instructional designers, and graphic artists.

Basic Qualifications:
· Experience with developing user-interface designs, Web-based training, and other multimedia products
· Experience with graphic design packages, including the Adobe Creative Suite, Flash, Dreamweaver, Fireworks, Freehand, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and 3D Studio Max
· Knowledge of HTML and JavaScript

Additional Qualifications:
Ability to function as a creative self-starter and to work independently
Ability to learn new software and systems quickly
Experience with content management systems a plus
Experience using simulation tools, including Captivate and Camstasia preferred
Ability to communicate effectively with all levels within an organization
Knowledge of the intelligence community preferred
Experience with federal government and commercial consulting
Creativity tempered with an understanding of the intended audience, client culture, and learning preferences.
Understanding of human computer factors and interface design.
Ability and willingness to adapt to a dynamic set of standards and tools.

The tasks of the Graphics and Multimedia Developer often are separate functions

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Multi-media Developer and Video Producers

Principal areas of responsibility

Participates in Storyboarding

User Interface Design

Multimedia Production

Graphical Design

Works with WBT Instructional Designer, Multimedia Specialists, and Programmers

Multimedia Education Specialist
· Produces multimedia production for online content.
· Provides one-on-one (both face-to-face and online) consultation to subject matter experts and faculty in exploring possibilities and constructing content.
· Uses various instructional technologies to improve teaching and learning. Jointly develops, designs, and conducts instructional technology.
· Utilizes development software (examples could be Dreamweaver and Flash) to devise courses and programs.
· Develops action plans, timetables, benchmarks, quantitative targets for the online programs and projects.
· Conducts project outreach and assists on working with vendors and external project developers. Assists with curricular development and program delivery.
Other specialists oversee the pre-production, production, and post-production of video and audio elements. Pre-production includes the selection and preparation of shooting locations and set up of equipment; production encompasses the creation of raw audio/video content and post-production primarily refers to the editing and refinement of content to a desired duration and quality.
Industry experience is particularly desired for these team members. More often than not, the audio/video crew is contracted.

Additional Description
Multimedia Developer- Responsible for creating multimedia learning objects, such as audio, video, 2D/3D animations, simulations, etc.
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Authoring Programmer

Principal areas of responsibility

Using the script as a guide, the programmer is expected to assemble different elements (text, audio, video, graphics, and animation) into a coherent whole. He develops the rapid prototype, the programmed working model, upon which the final product is based. The programmer is called upon to debug a program following alpha and beta tests, create databases, and construct reporting mechanisms used for student tracking.

Like graphic artists, many programmers may have specialized degrees or be self-taught. Multimedia development is not usually accomplished using advanced languages but rather in Hypertext Markup Language (HTML) or with authoring systems (e.g., Flash, Toolbook, Rapid Intake, Captivate, Articulate, etc.), programs that facilitate e-learning creation. A strong background in other programming languages, such as: c#, C++, LISP, is desired.

A multimedia programmer should have:
· An analytical, methodical approach to work.
· Ingenuity around creation of reusable objects and engines.
· Ability to code optimally and choose the right tool based on the technologies available to the audience.

Programmer - Programs e-learning lessons following the storyboard created in the design
process.

Programmers assemble the text, graphics, and animations provided by other team members. Using storyboards, graphics, sound files, text, video clips, and animations to construct the courseware, programmers fit content into an appropriate delivery form. In addition, programmers develop the scripts that translate interactive portions of a traditional classroom course, such as discussions and quizzes, into an online format. It's easy for programmers to become preoccupied with the options that are technologically available but add little (or even detract from) the learning experience. The project manager needs to check whether the programmers' content conversion is consistent with the learning objectives and supports the instructional design.

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Quality Control Person

Principal areas of responsibility

Ensures performance and quality of the e-Learning product

Works with programmers, WBT Instructional Designer, Multimedia Specialists, and Programmers

e-Learning Project or Software Quality Assurance Engineer (or Specialist)

Depending on the depth and extent of project, a quality control person is needed to ensure the e-Learning program user experience both in lessons and learning and the LMS work as designed. This role may be performed, too, by members of the team depending on the size of the project.

Key Roles:
· The QA Specialist (or Engineer as needed) is responsible for analyzing and accurately scoping QA project work based on available requirements.
· Create and execute manual and automated test cases/plans/scripts for product releases.
· Log, track, and close defects throughout the software development process.
· Work collaboratively on project teams, contribute to project scheduling, and create and maintain QA documentation.
· Use experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals and assist with deployment of new software or procedures to live production.

Additional responsibilities may include:
Sign-off on product quality
Maintain currency in QA technologies, techniques, and trends
Other SQA duties as assigned

Qualifications include:
· BS in Computer Science or comparable work experience. 2+ years experience in a commercial software testing environment.
· Excellent analytical and troubleshooting skills.
· Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
· Strong understanding of Windows and Linux operating systems.
· Strong attention to detail.
· Demonstrated experience with web-based database search and retrieval techniques.
· Demonstrated ability to balance multiple projects concurrently in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Further qualifications may include:
· 3-5 years of QA experience and understanding of the role of QA in the development process.
· Experience with XML and .NET is necessary.
· Must have knowledge of C++, Java, and/or other programming languages.
· Strong communication and people skills are necessary as is the ability to work independently.
· Experience with SQL, PL/SQL, PERL, NUnit, JUnit, and Oracle would be helpful. Familiarity with bibliographic databases is desired.

Required Qualifications:
Demonstrated understanding of the software development life-cycle
Ability to work well in a team environment
Familiarity with MARC21 data format
Working knowledge of XML
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LMS Administrator

Principal areas of responsibility

Ensures LMS supports performance and quality of the e-Learning product

Responsible for infrastructure and hosting and support

Works with programmers, WBT Instructional Designer, Multimedia Specialists, and Programmers (See chart above)

Administrators facilitate communication, track expenditures, and assist in reproduction and distribution of materials, among other duties. Tracks increases in the size of teams and projects, contributes to the administrative personnel’s need for oversight.

Systems Administrator- Administers LMS server, user accounts, and network security.

Skills:
· Associate Degree in computer science, business or related area.
· Excellent facilitation and communications skills.
· Demonstrated ability to simultaneously handle a large and diverse number of technical tasks and issues with tact, cooperation and persistence.
· Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
· Comfortable working with people at all levels of the organization globally as well as with suppliers, vendors and customers.
· Good experience with MS Office Suite. Intermediate level Excel and Access skills required. HTML and XML skills are highly desirable.
· Ability to work independently and as a member of global teams. 25% to 35% travel requirement.

The Administrator works closely with the Manager of Learning Technologies, Learning Technology Lead and Registrars to manage, maintain and teach audiences the operation and administration of the LMS system. LMS system administration duties include system and learning activities setup, security, workflow, schedules and maintenance. The holder of the position is expected to analyze, identify and communicate LMS system and business requirements to vendor. Instructor duties include facilitation of LMS-based courses to diverse audiences utilizing traditional classroom and virtual classroom facilitation based skills. Additionally, he/she analyzes and recommends best practice solutions to any requests or related issues with LMS system and learning activity configurations.

Principal Duties:
· Coordinates LMS system setup for clients, Project Leads and Management. Includes complex learning activities and workflow communication processes.
· Sets and maintains Building Efficiency LMS Administrators security roles and access levels.
· Utilizes reporting systems to run regular statistical management reports from the LMS. Develops ad hoc and specialized reports as required.
· Maintains data integrity rules and processes for the Learning Management System (LMS), such as course descriptions, course or class changes, instructors and delivery costs.
· Responsible for LMS system standards for Building Efficiency. Documents and publishes all Building Efficiency LMS system standards for global use.
· Works with Training Coordinators and Registrars to ensure proper setup and system support for complex learning activities within the LMS.
· Provides consulting and advice to Learning and Development Leads regarding optimal LMS system configurations for enrollment, scheduling, and logistics practices.
· Maintains application level Subject Matter Expertise on Learning Management System and reporting systems. Capability to perform as a 3rd level system support to helpdesk.
· Participates on Enterprise LMS teams as required to keep Building Efficiency LMS requirements in and aligned with Global LMS standards and processes.
· Manages the L&D Product Lifecycle process as it relates to the LMS.
· Facilitates and delivers LMS system and business process learning sessions to required audiences. Sessions may include live classroom sessions, synchronous or asynchronous webinars and one-on-one, on-the-job training. Flexes instruction and facilitation style and approach to fit the needs of the audience, content, and local business or cultural requirements.
· Maintains all LMS Instructor course materials and facilitates translations as required to meet Johnson Controls business, language and cultural requirements.
· Coordinates LMS vendor based training sessions, location and logistics as required.
· Qualifies LMS administrators for system use, verifies that skills have been met, and coaches administrators when required.
· Leads and facilitates regularly scheduled LMS administrator group meetings to coordinated consistent system and business process best practices and update training to a global audience.
· Leads the establishment, documentation and enforcement of registration, scheduling, and cancellation policies and procedures. Performs other duties as required.
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Ray Jimenez, PhD www.vignettestraining.com
"Helping Learners Learn Their Way"