Last updated on Jul 26, 2024

You're preparing for a digital learning interview. How can creativity elevate your success?

Preparing for a digital learning interview can be a daunting task. You're expected to demonstrate your expertise in e-learning platforms, instructional design, and perhaps even content creation. But beyond the technical skills and knowledge, there's an often-overlooked aspect that can set you apart: creativity. In the digital learning sphere, creativity isn't just about artistic flair—it's about innovation, problem-solving, and presenting information in engaging ways that resonate with learners. As you gear up for your interview, consider how showcasing your creative abilities can highlight your potential as a dynamic digital learning professional.

1 Know Thyself

Understanding your own creative process is crucial before you can effectively convey it to others. Reflect on past projects where you've had to think outside the box or devise novel solutions. Identify the strategies that helped you overcome obstacles or engage learners more deeply. This self-awareness not only boosts your confidence but also equips you with concrete examples to share during your interview. Demonstrating a clear grasp of how your creativity has positively impacted your work can make a strong impression on potential employers.

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Jason Braun M.Ed., MA, CSM

Agile Instructional Designer | Author of Designing Context-Rich Learning by Extending Reality | Featured in The Chronicle of Higher Education, The Riverfront Times, ESPN.com, and more | Thriving with ADHD and Dyslexia
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Searching your work and educational experiences for memorable examples of innovation or particularly creative projects. In grad school, I wrote a paper on "Paradise Lost as a primer on office politics" and then worked with a programmer to turn it into an iPhone app, which temporarily charted to the 144th most downloaded paid business app. Highlighting such instances provides concrete evidence of your creativity. If you lack examples, start creating and publicizing them now. Novelty and creating a useful learning experience matters more than perfection. While I didn't get rich with that app, these efforts helped me stand out and secure a full-time academic position.

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2 Market Trends

Staying abreast of current trends in digital learning is essential. Employers look for candidates who can not only adapt to the changing landscape but also anticipate and innovate. Your creativity can manifest in how you incorporate emerging technologies or pedagogical approaches to enhance digital learning experiences. Discussing how you've integrated trends like microlearning, gamification, or mobile learning into your projects can showcase your forward-thinking mindset and ability to create compelling and effective digital content.

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3 Problem Solving

Creativity shines brightest when faced with challenges. In your interview, you'll likely be asked about times you've encountered problems and how you resolved them. Prepare examples where your creative thinking led to effective solutions in a digital learning context. Whether it was finding a new way to engage a difficult audience or adapting content for a different platform, these stories can demonstrate your resourcefulness and ability to innovate under pressure.

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4 Engaging Content

Creating content that captivates and educates is at the heart of digital learning. Use the interview to illustrate how your creative skills have been instrumental in developing engaging courses or materials. Discuss the design principles you apply to make content visually appealing and the narrative techniques you use to make complex information more digestible. Highlighting your ability to blend aesthetics with educational effectiveness can distinguish you as a candidate who understands the importance of learner engagement.

Add your perspective

Jason Braun M.Ed., MA, CSM

Agile Instructional Designer | Author of Designing Context-Rich Learning by Extending Reality | Featured in The Chronicle of Higher Education, The Riverfront Times, ESPN.com, and more | Thriving with ADHD and Dyslexia
Report contribution
I've used this move to pitch freelance clients, potential expert collaborators or co-authors, and hiring managers to a good deal of success. For a dream job at a company you love, consider creating a prototype of the content you plan to develop. This can demonstrate your innovative approach and set you apart from other candidates. While it may feel similar to tasks where companies collect work without intent to hire, this is your choice and agency. A well-executed prototype not only showcases your skills but also adds a valuable piece to your portfolio, ensuring your efforts are not wasted even if the interview doesn't lead to a job.

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5 Tech Savvy

Technical proficiency is a given in digital learning roles, but creativity in using technology can set you apart. Explain how you've used creative problem-solving with technology to enhance learning experiences or streamline processes. Whether it's leveraging a new software feature in an unconventional way or coding a custom solution to improve interactivity, your ability to think creatively with tech tools can show employers that you're not just competent but also inventive.

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6 Future Vision

Lastly, demonstrate your creative vision for the future of digital learning. Employers are interested in how you will contribute to their long-term goals. Articulate your ideas on how digital learning can evolve and the role you see yourself playing in that evolution. Your ability to envision innovative paths forward and your eagerness to explore new possibilities can be compelling evidence of your value as a forward-thinking digital learning professional.

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You're preparing for a digital learning interview. How can creativity elevate your success?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Know Thyself

2 Market Trends

3 Problem Solving

4 Engaging Content

5 Tech Savvy

6 Future Vision

Digital Learning

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You're preparing for a digital learning interview. How can creativity elevate your success?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Know Thyself

2 Market Trends

3 Problem Solving

4 Engaging Content

5 Tech Savvy

6 Future Vision

Digital Learning

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

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