How do you collaborate with subject matter experts to identify learning objectives?

Online Learning Specialist Interview Questions

Sample answer to the question

When collaborating with subject matter experts to identify learning objectives, I start by scheduling meetings with them to understand their expertise and the specific topics they will be contributing to. I ask them about their goals for the course and the desired learning outcomes. Additionally, I review any existing materials or documents they provide to gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter. Throughout the collaboration process, I maintain clear and open communication with the subject matter experts, seeking their input and feedback on the learning objectives. This collaborative approach ensures that the course content aligns with their expertise and meets the desired learning outcomes.

A more solid answer

To effectively collaborate with subject matter experts and identify learning objectives, I employ a structured approach. Firstly, I schedule regular meetings with the experts to discuss their areas of expertise and gain a comprehensive understanding of the learning content. During these meetings, I use techniques like brainstorming sessions and concept mapping to extract valuable insights and identify key learning objectives. I also make use of instructional design frameworks, such as the ADDIE model, to guide the collaboration process. This framework helps to ensure that the identified learning objectives are aligned with the overall instructional goals. Throughout the collaboration, I maintain open lines of communication, seeking regular feedback and input from the subject matter experts. This iterative process ensures that the learning objectives are accurately identified and reflect the expertise of the subject matter experts.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides a more detailed and structured approach to collaborating with subject matter experts and identifying learning objectives. It mentions techniques like brainstorming sessions and concept mapping to extract valuable insights. It also incorporates the use of instructional design frameworks, which aligns with the job description's requirement of proficiency in instructional design. The answer emphasizes the importance of maintaining open communication and seeking regular feedback, which showcases strong collaboration abilities. However, it could be improved by providing specific examples of past collaborations and how they led to successful identification of learning objectives.

An exceptional answer

Collaborating with subject matter experts to identify learning objectives is essential for creating impactful online courses. To ensure a comprehensive and effective collaboration process, I start by conducting in-depth interviews with the subject matter experts. These interviews go beyond discussing their expertise and delve into understanding their target audience, the context of the learning experience, and the desired learning outcomes. By gaining deeper insights into these aspects, I can align the learning objectives with the specific needs of the learners and the overall instructional goals. During the collaboration, I leverage data-driven approaches, such as conducting learner needs assessments or analyzing learning analytics, to inform the identification of learning objectives. This helps to ensure that the objectives are not only based on expertise but also on evidence-based research and learner feedback. Additionally, I actively involve subject matter experts in the instructional design process, inviting them to review and provide feedback on prototypes and course materials. This collaborative feedback loop ensures that the identified learning objectives are refined and validated. By adopting this comprehensive approach, the collaboration with subject matter experts becomes a catalyst for creating engaging and impactful online courses.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer goes above and beyond by incorporating additional strategies and techniques to enhance the collaboration with subject matter experts. It highlights the importance of conducting in-depth interviews to understand not only the subject matter experts' expertise but also the target audience, context, and desired learning outcomes. The answer also emphasizes the use of data-driven approaches, such as learner needs assessments and learning analytics, to inform the identification of learning objectives. This aligns with the job description's requirement for analyzing data to enhance online learning experiences. Furthermore, involving subject matter experts in the instructional design process showcases strong collaboration abilities and ensures the refinement and validation of the learning objectives. Overall, the exceptional answer demonstrates a deep understanding of the collaboration process and showcases the candidate's ability to create engaging and impactful online courses.

How to prepare for this question

Familiarize yourself with instructional design frameworks such as the ADDIE model, as it is commonly used in the field.
Practice conducting in-depth interviews to gather comprehensive information from subject matter experts.
Research and familiarize yourself with data-driven approaches in instructional design, such as learner needs assessments and learning analytics.
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully collaborated with subject matter experts to identify learning objectives.
Highlight your ability to communicate and maintain open lines of communication with subject matter experts throughout the collaboration process.
Be prepared to discuss how you incorporate subject matter experts in the instructional design process and how their feedback has helped refine learning objectives.

What interviewers are evaluating

Collaboration with subject matter experts
Identification of learning objectives