35 eLearning Development Director Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our eLearning Development Director interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Table of Contents
Accomplishment
1. What learning program that you developed are you most proud of? Talk about what makes it impactful for you and those that put it to use.
How to Answer
In looking to bring you aboard as their next eLearning Development Director, your interviewer wants to hear that you feel accomplishment and take pride in your work. This question allows you the opportunity to show that. When interviewers ask about accomplishments, they want to know what achievements you consider worthy of praise and why. Prior to your interview, think back on the project that makes you proud. Be able to describe the work you put into it and the great results from it. If possible, try to make sure that your answer to this question closely matches this role.
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Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"Last year, I worked with a professor on a series of MicroLearning lessons in the virtual for a graduate class. While the work was certainly focused on creating over 20 micro-lessons and coming up with a plan for releasing them to students, what made this so fulfilling to me was branching into a new realm for the graduate curriculum. I learned a ton in the process that I could bring with me to your institution."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Adaptability
2. Are you fluent and adaptable when it comes to learning new computer programs and software?
How to Answer
As you know, the education field has become much more technologically driven, which rings true for both students and educators. If hired to be their next eLearning Development Director, you will likely be using various new systems and programs. Your interviewer wants to ensure that you will come in with the ability to learn and master these quickly. Adding another tricky piece to this puzzle, many higher learning institutions have their customized email programs and websites with which you will need to be effective and efficient. As you answer this question, reiterate that you have excellent computer skills and don't hesitate to give examples of the variety of programs you have worked in throughout your career.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"I am computer literate and am confident in my ability to learn quickly any program required for this role. In my current role, I work in thein video editing programs like Final Cut."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Adaptability
3. If hired as our eLearning Development Director, how would you adapt when asked to make last-minute changes to a program?
How to Answer
As an eLearning Development Director, there will be times when you will need to make quick changes to distance learning materials. You always need to be able to handle these changes with professionalism. Your interviewer is trying to gauge your adaptability under pressure and flexibility in the workplace as their next eLearning Development Director. Show your interviewer that you can embrace change in this role and expect it to be a part of the job. If possible, provide an example of when you had to make last-minute changes to a curriculum that you were working on.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"I can take the pressure of last-minute changes in my work, and I've proven this throughout my career. Last year, I was working with the pre-med department faculty to develop a new curriculum for 4th-year students. This was around a three-month project that was coming together well right before the new fall semester started. Following a department meeting in early August, they invited me to discuss some last-minute changes to the materials that needed to be implemented due to new medical school requirements. While I knew the changes would be some serious work and take some time, I put my head down and made it a top priority over the coming week. If hired for this role, you will find that I'm always open to changes and willing to do so with a great attitude for your staff."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Adaptability
4. Talk about your ability to be flexible on the job. Why do you think it is important to be flexible in this role as our next eLearning Development Director?
How to Answer
In looking to hire the next eLearning Development Director on their campus, your interviewer needs the candidate they hire to be flexible and adaptive. In this role, there are many factors and duties that will require you to be flexible. Whether working with and supporting a diverse team of educators, each with their own needs or jumping to and from the many different duties required for this role, your interviewer wants to hear that you can handle the twists and turns of the work. Answer with an example, and talk about why flexibility and adaptability are critical skills for this role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"I consider myself a flexible person on the job. I enjoy dynamic work environments that require thinking on my feet, problem-solving and collaborating with others. When I have to troubleshoot in my current job, I have to often reprioritize my work to handle the issue quickly. Being flexible in the online learning world is essential because issues can sometimes come from the left field, and I need to handle them with ease. Helping my team is one of the aspects of my work I value most, and sometimes that means we have to chase the rabbit trails to find solutions."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Behavioral
5. As an eLearning Development Director, you often have to bridge the gap between research/theory and instructional staff. How do you see yourself as building that bridge in this role?
How to Answer
eLearning Development Directors have the difficult task of bringing different research and data into the classroom setting. The person who bridges the gap between theory and the professors and instructors will rely on strong communication and relationships. In asking this question, your interviewer will ideally be looking to hear that you would take the reins in this role as their eLearning Development Director and build trusting and long-lasting work relationships with the educators you'd be working closely with. As you answer this question and talk about how you promote the turning of data into classroom practice, make sure to discuss how you would go about building a trusting relationship with the staff at this institution to ensure that the bridge you build is solid.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"I know that success as an eLearning Development Director requires first-hand experience and knowledge in both implementation in the virtual classroom setting and the research and data behind the scenes in creating new curriculum. If I were fortunate enough to be hired for this role, my first goal on the job would be to start to build great relationships with all of the professors and instructors here. I would do this by being knowledgeable in my field and having an open-door policy for any staff member to approach me to discuss the future of their online classroom. I would put out regular communications to the staff to let them get to know me. I would also be very transparent in my communications about what project I was working on so the staff could see the great work being done."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Behavioral
6. When evaluating the effectiveness of an eLearning program, what factors do you consider for evaluation?
How to Answer
The observation and evaluation of virtual learning lessons and programs have certainly brought several new challenges to educators compared to the traditional in-person classroom setting. In asking this question, your interviewer wants to hear that you understand what these challenges are in the eLearning world. They'll also be looking to hear that you are prepared to evaluate programs effectively as their next eLearning Development Director. Before your interview, be sure to think about the challenges of virtual distance learning and address how you would evaluate the key facets.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"I had experienced this over the last two years when most of my classes went virtual. For one, I know it's critical to establish criteria for the students so they are clear on what they must know from one lesson to the next. I achieve this in several ways. Sometimes through direct interaction with the students. Sometimes I do so via written assignments or tests. Another key to evaluating the effectiveness is accessibility. In a classroom setting, student accessibility was less of a concern because students were present in the classroom. In the virtual world of education, I need to consider the accessibility of mixed media like presentations and videos and audio lectures, as well as platforms and even connectivity. All students must have access. Poor access has a direct impact on the quality of education."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Behavioral
7. How would you bring a sense of energy and positivity as our eLearning Development Director?
How to Answer
While no one can be both of these things all of the time, your interviewer is looking to hire an eLearning Development Director that can make a difference in the daily lives of both instructors and students who may be struggling in the virtual environment. Before your interview, think about the strategies you would bring to this position to get both of these virtues to this role. As you answer this question, try to explain why bringing a positive and energetic attitude will help benefit all you would work with in this role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"If I were fortunate enough to be hired for this job, you would quickly find out that I'm a very positive person. The excitement of making a difference in people's lives and education provides me with a lot of energy on the job. But I still need to motivate myself. So I make a point of connecting in some way to a colleague or student. It doesn't have to be much, but it reminds me to truly see the people around me. This may not seem like much, but it helps me show up every day with positive energy for the people that I am serving."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Behavioral
8. Have you ever received negative feedback about a curriculum or program you developed? If so, how did you respond?
How to Answer
After many hours dedicated to developing a new program as an eLearning Development Director, the last thing you want is negative feedback. But in all reality, negative feedback can rear its head from many angles. Show your interviewer that you can process negative feedback to your benefit. As you answer, you will want to demonstrate that you can use the feedback from professors and administrators to improve your work in the future. Talk about how you assess feedback and internalize it. The interviewer's goal is to see that you are open and responsive to constructive criticism. If you don't have direct experience as an eLearning Development Director, be sure to talk about an experience where you received negative feedback in your work and how you handled that situation.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"To me, feedback from the professors and instructors putting my online programs to use is vital. I welcome it by encouraging them to give me any type of feedback that they may have. A few years ago, I was criticized for using too many repeat pictures in the materials I developed for an undergraduate business ethics class. The instructor instilled in me that variety is what helps the learners stay engaged. Rather than taking that feedback personally as a lack of knowledge on my part, I keep that thought in mind any time I create new learning materials, and I remain grateful to this day for that feedback."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Behavioral
9. What are your favorite tools and resources to utilize in designing new programs and curriculum?
How to Answer
As a competent eLearning Development Director, you are expected to have deep experience in the tools and resources of the trade. Your interviewer would like to know which tools you utilize the most and how you use them in your work. Discuss your top choices, and explain how you use these tools and their impact on your work. If you are unsure which resources you will have access to while working in this particular role, be sure to ask. If you know the tools and resources used in this role, it's a good idea to discuss your level of familiarity.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"In my current role, I use a system called BYOC, and it is an amazing program that builds curriculum, houses assessment, and provides all of the data to make important adjustments over time. Working within this system for three years, I have become proficient as the primary gatekeeper for the information on my campus. Over time, I have allowed other instructors some administrative access into the system to work alongside me, which has been a great step forward. This system is also intuitive, knowing different state mandates and standards. I also have expansive experience in using Final Cut and iMovie video editing tools for use in developing online curriculum."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Behavioral
10. How would you handle times where you were working on several projects at one time as our next eLearning Development Director?
How to Answer
It's common for an eLearning Development Director to be juggling many different development projects at one time. In asking this question, your interviewer will be looking to hear that you have the ability to multitask several projects at once using prioritization skills and organizational skills. To effectively prove your ability to do this, try to talk about a prior role where you had to juggle many different tasks and projects at once. As you answer, talk about your ability to use resources to help keep yourself organized and on track. As well, don't hesitate to talk about the strategies you use to keep from stressed and burned out in your work.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"Coming into this interview, I fully realize that I would be stepping into a position where I would be supporting many different instructors and professors in creating eLearning content for their courses, and I bring an innate ability to handle a big workload. In my current role, I am teaching up to 8 courses each semester while also creating all online coursework for my department within the college. To multitask everything simultaneously, I utilize my calendar to block time for online coursework development while also keeping open time for extra things that come up. I'm also currently required to keep open office hours for students. Even when extra hours are required of me in a given week given my workload, I take time outside of work to refresh myself and come every day prepared for a full day of work."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Career Goals
11. Why did you aspire to take a career path as an eLearning Development Director?
How to Answer
This question provides an opportunity to show your passion for the role and why you think you're a good fit. Prior to your interview, be sure to research the mission, vision, and core values of the institution you are interviewing with and illustrate how your values align with theirs. To get a true sense of your passion as an eLearning Development Director, a successful answer will also discuss what ultimately drove you into this career field. No matter how you answer, speak from the heart as you passionately describe what led you directly to this interview.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"I come from a family of teachers. Both my parents were public school teachers, and they both have siblings who also taught in the public school system. So, formal education has always been a part of my life. As I progressed through my educational path in my Bachelor's program and my Master's program, I always knew that post-secondary education was my career path, and I've always considered my career as a passion in life. Over the last five years, I've been so intrigued by shifting my career into the eLearning field. Recently, I've started delving into developing online coursework for my program and leading the instruction of virtual classes. I have loved the design and development side of the eLearning world. This role as your next eLearning Development Director has me extremely excited."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Communication
12. We need our eLearning Development Director to have strong written communication skills. How would you rate your written communication skills?
How to Answer
Your interviewer is getting a good indication of your verbal communication skills during your interview process. But because written communication skills are so crucial in the success of an eLearning Development Director, your interviewer is posing this question to you to get an idea of your strengths as a writer. As you rate your written communication skills, be sure to talk about your written projects from previous roles. Don't hesitate to talk about formal curriculum instructions or learning content that you have authored. Even discussing clear and consistent communication in email and memos is essential in this role, so talk about why taking the time to write clearly is vital in your work. However you answer, make sure that your interviewer walks away knowing that you prioritize written communication in your work.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"My written communication skills are strong. As you can see in the portfolio I've provided, the written curricula that I have developed in my time as an instructor are clear, concise, and error-free. Whenever I write, I take time to proofread and even use a program like Grammarly to ensure that both grammar and spelling mistakes are avoided. I take this same approach when I draft other communications like internal memos and emails as well."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Communication
13. Describe your communication style. How will it benefit you as our eLearning Development Director?
How to Answer
Effective communication is crucial in the success of an eLearning Development Director. Your interviewer wants to have a sense of how effectively you communicate. As you answer, describe how you lead conversations with subject matter experts, instructors, and administrative staff on campus. Your interviewer will ideally want to hear that your communication style will fit well in their institutional culture, so be sure to research that ahead of your interview.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"I would call myself a diplomatic communicator. I like to see a situation from all sides, as much as possible. When it comes to developing new online learning materials, I begin with the end in mind. The best way to do this is by gathering information from everyone involved, especially those who can provide perspective from and about the learner. I love having direct conversations with professors in the development process. I don't hesitate to ask questions to gain insight, and they take very well to my approach."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Compatibility
14. What do you know about the culture at our institution and how would you help it grow and thrive as our eLearning Development Director?
How to Answer
Workplace culture and fit are significant factors when considering a career move, especially in an academic setting. Before your interview, try to do as much research as you can on the overall mission, values, and culture of the institution you are interviewing with. As you answer, assure your interviewer that you have put thought, research, and consideration into how their workplace culture will help you excel as their next eLearning Development Director.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"I have researched your school through your social media channels and on your website, and my research led me to apply for this role. Your staff has great things to say, and this is the best sign of a solid institution. I love the fact that your school focuses on a global perspective, and I would look to be a versatile eLearning Development Director that could help this initiative."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Compatibility
15. What qualities do you believe make an excellent eLearning Development Director?
How to Answer
Before your interview, take some time to learn about the culture of the institution you are interviewing with and select a few characteristics you possess that satisfy the qualifications required of the eLearning Development Director role and make you well-aligned with the company's culture. Remember that hiring managers interview candidates all day long, so consider highlighting the reasons behind each quality to help you stand out.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"There are a few qualities that your next eLearning Development Director should possess, and I believe that I have those qualities. Firstly. I have a passion for post-secondary education. I have been an educator for all of my career, and my passion drives me to be the best in my work. I keep myself updated with the latest happenings and innovations in my field. I also think adaptability is critical in method and thought. Because education is continuously evolving, it's vital for me to consciously shift my thinking when the situation requires it. I have to make strategic decisions on the fly, so I don't hold up any other process. Lastly, I want to say that I'm an empathetic leader. I try to always be cognizant of other people's experiences and why they make the choices they do. It helps me communicate with colleagues more effectively, no matter their rank or role. It also helps me to withhold judgment and be objective in my dealings with others."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Creative Thinking
16. Why do certain curricula fail to meet their goals? Walk me through a few different reasons.
How to Answer
In looking to hire you as their next eLearning Development Director, your interviewer needs you to be aware of what makes for an excellent online learning curriculum and what can cause them to fail. While most of your interviews will be focused on the success and ways to create the most beneficial and creative eLearning programs, this question focuses on your awareness of what can cause them to fail. Before your interview, be sure to think of the different details that can cause a plan to fail and talk about these details with your interviewer. Make sure that your interviewer clearly understands that you are aware of failures and do all that is possible to avoid them in your work.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"From my experiences in developing robust and impactful online curricula, the first point of failure typically stems from rigidity in not allowing instructors to use their professional judgment in how to implement the programs. Given that students are all unique in their personality and how they learn, professional educators need to be given the flexibility to customize the programs to their students. The programs that rely solely on the judgment of a textbook writer often fail the most. The other reason I have personally seen an online program fail is the lack of buy-in from both the instructors and students. When I develop new programs, I first ensure that the instructors using them will find them exciting and effective."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Creative Thinking
17. In what ways is it vital to ensure ADA compliance in online course design for learners with disabilities?
How to Answer
As a successful eLearning Development Director, your interviewer wants to be sure that you know the Americans with Disability Act and how it pertains to all students having equal accessibility in online instructional opportunities. When it comes to developing online coursework, ADA compliance can be challenging, and your interviewer wants to hear that you are ready to take that challenge in this role. As you answer, talk about the importance of font design, graphics, audio, and video content within coursework and how it becomes ADA compliant. As you answer, ensure that your interviewer understands that you will take ADA compliance seriously in the job you are interviewing for.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"I am very aware of ADA compliance when it comes to developing online classes. I design all online content to be in a readable font like Sans Serif or Arial. When I include hyperlinks in content, I ensure that the links are fully written out. When I create and add video and audio content, I ensure that they are free of background noise and use clear and audible language instructions. When possible, I also include voice-activated features that allow students to write using voice-activated text."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Creative Thinking
18. Innovation in online learning is evolving as rapidly as the technology to support it. In what way do you think distance learning will change next?
How to Answer
As more and more students and campuses move to include virtual learning as part of their daily routine, innovations will continue to develop to make the virtual learning world more normative. Your interviewer will want to hear that you have an open eye for how the technology will innovate in the coming years. As you answer, your interviewer should get a clear impression that you are ready to handle any innovations that come to the eLearning field and have the sense to anticipate a genuinely innovative project versus just a passing one.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"Tools and technology in the eLearning world learning have progressed rapidly in recent years. I expect none of that to slow down. I'm aware of a growing movement to include virtual reality in the virtual classroom. As video game developers are perfecting VR, there will be many other uses for it too. Imagine taking a group of history students back to ancient Rome through virtual reality. While I am not an expert on it, I also feel that artificial intelligence will completely change the way virtual students learn and virtual teachers educate in the future. From an educator's perspective, AI will likely manage administrative burdens so that educators can better focus on their students. And for the student, AI will be able to customize learning. The future possibilities are endless."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Discovery
19. What would you find to be most rewarding in this role as our next eLearning Development Director?
How to Answer
During your time with them, your interviewer wants to get a feel for your commitment and your passion for this role. This is the time to let your passion for education shine through! Before your interview, prepare to talk about one or two aspects of this job that you will find the most rewarding, personally and professionally. As you answer, emphasize your compatibility with this role as their next eLearning Development Director.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"Over the five or so years in the community college setting, I have witnessed the need for virtual learning become more and more apparent, and I'm excited to be on the forefront of that movement. Learning in a virtual environment--away from face-to-face contact with both instructors and peers--is difficult for a lot of students. I want to make the virtual learning environment as effective and impactful for both students and educators. I want to bridge the gap that students may feel and help them get the best education possible in the virtual environment. Also, the fact that innovation in technology and instructional methods will continue to grow in the years to come makes this role exciting for me."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Discovery
20. What challenges would you be looking forward to in this role?
How to Answer
The role of an eLearning Development Director comes with many challenges, many of which can be both interesting and exciting. The prospect of turning a traditional in-person curriculum into virtual learning material can be daunting but a great opportunity for the right candidate. Prior to your interview, think about what you feel will be the exciting challenges of this job and explain to your interviewer why they are appealing to you. As well, talk about how these challenges will help you in your career and how you will tackle the challenges when hired. As you answer, be sure to demonstrate an ambitious attitude and a willingness to face challenges head-on when hired for the job.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"As an experienced instructor who's always thrived in the technological aspects of the classroom setting, I'm looking forward to the challenges of becoming your eLearning Development Director. I think that virtual and online secondary education will continue to be a hot topic in the future, with more and more students looking to make that change. With this will come the challenge of staying on top of new technologies and hot trends in the field. I'm confident in my ability to learn, grow and thrive into the future of this role and look forward to doing it with your organization."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Discovery
21. If hired as our eLearning Development Director, what would be an initial weakness or hurdle you would have to overcome?
How to Answer
Your interviewer is looking to hear that you are cognizant of many aspects of the job where you would need to work harder to come up to speed to be fully competent. Given that the eLearning Development field is relatively new and growing, your interviewer isn't expecting to hire someone who can come in and have every aspect of the job mastered. Before your interviewer, be sure to read the job description thoroughly and be honest with yourself about the most significant potential hurdles. As you answer, do your best to turn this initial weakness into a growth opportunity. Show that you are willing to put in the time and effort to become fully capable in this role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"For me, the biggest hurdle will be making the transition from a classroom instructor to this role. With my many years of experience in working with undergraduate and graduate students, it will take a proper mindset for me to step away from the frontline educator role. I would no longer be at the forefront of driving content; rather, I'd be working in support on the backend to develop and implement the online coursework. It's a paradigm shift for sure, but I'm ready to make this career change. I'm passionate about it, and I'm ready to learn and to lead this team."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Education
22. eLearning Development Directors should also be avid learners. How do you seek to identify new trends in the online learning world?
How to Answer
Because the propensity to move to a more virtual learning environment is so recent for many colleges and universities, the eLearning Development Director role is expected to grow and morph into the future as new advancements come about. Your interviewer wants to ensure that you would step into this role willing and ready to keep yourself educated and up to speed on recent trends in the evolving field. In turn, this will help keep their campus at the forefront of the online learning opportunities for their student body. Talk openly about the resources you use to stay informed in the field and discuss a recent professional development opportunity you pursued. Reiterate to your interviewer why remaining a student is critical to your professional success.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"In all honesty, the future growth and adaptation of the virtual learning model is what drew me to this career path. The field is dynamic, and the coming years will reveal new technology and innovation. Over the past year alone, I have earned continuing education credits in creating LGBTQ+ inclusive curriculum and educator wellness initiatives. I'm committed to creating fun and effective learning environments and materials, and I hope to do so as your eLearning Development Director."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Experience
23. If hired as our eLearning Development Director, you will perform some module writing on our website. Do you have any experience in web writing or development?
How to Answer
As an eLearning Development Director, part of your role will be to perform updates and maintenance to the content on some parts of the institution's internal website for students. In asking this question, your interviewer will want to hear about any direct experience in web content writing or site development. If you have hands-on experience in this realm, talk about it with your interviewer and speak confidently about the skills you would bring to this job. If you don't have hands-on experience, talk about your computer literacy, word processing, and creative skills and promote confidence in your ability to learn and master this part of the job.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"In my current role, I do update to a few pages on the school's website and received hands-on training on how to do this. When I do this, I am solely updating content and not working with the overall design and layout of the site. I feel comfortable in my creative skills and my overall computer savvy to be able to effectively learn the website design and layout process if I were asked to do so as your eLearning Development Director."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Experience
24. Do you have any experience in managing a budget on the job?
How to Answer
If hired as an eLearning Development Director, you can be sure that you will be responsible for managing at least a piece of the curriculum and technology budget for the online learning programs for the institution. If you have direct experience in managing a budget on the job, talk about as many details as you can and speak to how you effectively used the funds most efficiently. If you don't have experience directly managing a budget, that is okay if you can discuss how to do so effectively. Whether you have direct experience or not, be prepared to talk about the importance of effectively assessing the organization's technology needs to spend dollars wisely. Don't hesitate to talk about new and innovative ways to save money on impactful technological resources for staff.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"I do have experience managing a small annual budget in my current role. If I understand correctly from our conversation today, I'd be responsible for a much larger budget with your institution, and I am ready to take on that challenge. Successfully managing a budget comes down to putting money to use in the most efficient and impactful way. To do this here, I would work with both instructors and administrators to determine the most crucial eLearning needs of the organization. When that assessment is done, I can begin researching how to utilize the budget to its maximum potential. Part of my research will be looking into new and innovative ways of thinking when it comes to putting technology to use in the virtual classroom environment."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Experience
25. What comfort level would you bring to this role in developing various media and materials like audio, video and graphics?
How to Answer
As a successful eLearning Development Director, you need to bring the ability to develop and use various media materials in the development of online courses. The different things your interviewer will want to hear that you have experience with is creating and using audio, video, photos, and graphics on the content you create. Prior to your interview, think back to all of your experience in working with these media types. As you answer, be sure to talk about the programs you have hands-on experience with while also reiterating that you are open to learning and mastering any new program required for the role you are interviewing for.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"If fortunate enough to be hired as your next eLearning Development Director, I feel very confident and comfortable in my ability to use video, audio, and other media sources in the virtual classes I would be developing. I have extensive experience in programs like Dreamweaver and Illustrator to create unique and dynamic content. I also have strong skills in video editing using iMovie. I am very literate when it comes to learning new programs, so I would come to your institution with the ability to be flexible in the media-related programs I would be using in this role."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Experience
26. Tell me about your experience working with professors and instructors as subject matter experts. How do you ensure you can work with them effectively to achieve learning goals?
How to Answer
As an eLearning Development Director, you will not be expected to be subject matter experts in all educational areas at the institution you are interviewing with. However, you will be expected to work harmoniously with the instructors. In the development process, you will obtain relevant information on the materials, document it, and then translate it into learning courses and materials. By proposing this question to you, your interviewer wants to learn about your experience in successfully collaborating with educators as subject matter experts. Describe the process you use to successfully collaborate with educators.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"Throughout my career, I have worked with a wide variety of instructors with great success. I work hand in hand with them regularly in my current role. I develop the materials, and the professors are the experts providing the content. We must build trust together. I aim to be knowledgeable, friendly, and honest, and I expect the same in return from them. I deliver on my word and don't hesitate to communicate any feedback I have for them."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Experience
27. Do you have any prior video editing experience that you can bring to this role as our next eLearning Development Director?
How to Answer
As their next eLearning Development Director, you may be asked to edit and upload videos to the online learning system so that students have access to updated and innovative materials. Your interviewer is looking to get a feel for what type of experience you have in video editing and uploading and how that experience will apply to this role. If you don't have a lot of experience in formally editing videos, there is no need to fret, as this will be a skill learned on the job. Just make sure you do as much research as possible on what video editing tools you can talk about. If you do have experience in video editing and uploading, that is great! Be sure to talk about that experience and the level of your proficiency.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"Yes, I do have experience in editing and uploading educational videos within the Blackboard system. I have uploaded video files and associated dialogue on much of the coursework I've created in the system and am very comfortable handling this task. I've also created and edited videos using the Windows Moving Maker and iMovie programs."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Experience
28. What experience do you have working in a culturally diverse environment?
How to Answer
As an eLearning Development Director on a college or university campus, you will be working in a very culturally diverse work environment. Students and staff will come from many different diverse backgrounds, and your interview will be looking to hear that you will be able to work in this environment effectively. If you have had direct experience working in a culturally diverse work atmosphere, talk about that experience. You may want to use a story that highlights how you could adapt to working with someone from a different background than you. Suppose you haven't had any direct experience working with people from a diverse range of cultures. In that case, you can give the interviewer confidence by mentioning examples of your ability to be fair and consistent, and sensitive. Be ready and willing to share any resources you use to continue to develop as an educator and ensure the content you use is culturally responsive.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"I have completed several diversity trainings throughout my career, and I try to be fair and consistent in the way I treat everyone. Regardless of anyone's culture or ability, people generally respond to a person who listens carefully and adapts to their specific needs. I treat everyone as a unique individual and want everyone to feel as if they belong. I also love to include and celebrate different cultures, languages, and abilities in the people I work with. In this role, I am also cognizant that each student will have different levels of knowledge on the technology they will be using as distance learners. To the best of my ability, I will take keep all cultural differences in mind when developing new materials."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Experience
29. Do you have any experience providing direct training to faculty or other instructional staff?
How to Answer
As an eLearning Development Director, you will provide training for faculty on the online systems and videoconferencing tools they will be using. Your interviewer is looking to hear that you are comfortable and confident in your ability to provide training in both a one-on-one and large group setting. In preparation for this interview, think of a few examples of successful training sessions you've delivered during your career. Your interviewer wants evidence that when you develop and deliver a training session, you focus on accomplishing goals while creating engaging and enjoyable learning opportunities for your learners. Your interviewer also wants to hear that you would be comfortable training the trainers, so to say, as you work closely with renowned professors in this role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"Yes, I do have experience in providing content training in front of large groups and with individuals. As I climbed the ranks to an Associate Professor, I spent five years helping to develop the curriculum for the college of business. In this work, I collaborated with the dean and other leaders to create relevant training for our core instructors. I was entrusted with delivering the training content in a formal half-day meeting with the staff."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Experience
30. As we are considering you as our next eLearning Development Director, what experiences or credentials set you apart from others interviewing for the role?
How to Answer
While your interviewer can tell a lot about your education, experience, and credentials by looking at your resume, they want you to walk them through the path that led you to this interview. As you answer, be sure to highlight the experiences and education that truly make you a unique and well-qualified candidate to be their next eLearning Development Director.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"As you can see from my resume, I obtained my Ph.D. and have taught classes in history and sociology at the college level for over ten years. During my years in the classroom, I developed a strong passion for developing impactful lessons. I decided to take this next step in my career to pursue a virtual learning environment. My experience in collaborating with faculty across campus will be vital as your next eLearning Development Director."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Experience
31. Walk me through your experience working with educators as subject matter experts. How do you ensure you can work with them effectively to achieve learning goals?
How to Answer
As an eLearning Development Director, you typically won't be expected to be a subject matter expert in all educational areas. However, you will be expected to work harmoniously with faculty and administrative professionals to distill information to include in online learning materials and document that information to translate it into learning courses and materials. By proposing this question to you, your interviewer wants to learn about your collaborations with educators as subject matter experts. Describe how you have achieved success through cooperative efforts during your career and how you'll be able to do the same in this role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"Throughout my career, I have worked with a wide variety of faculty with great success. I work to collaborate with them regularly in my current role. I develop the materials, and the educators are the experts providing the content. We must build trust together. I aim to be knowledgeable, friendly, and honest, and I expect the same in return from them. I deliver on my word and don't hesitate to communicate any feedback I have for them. If I am unfamiliar with the content I am developing, like what happened recently for me in an engineering curriculum, I took time to meet with the professor after hours to gain a better understanding of the materials I was creating."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Experience
32. What do you know about the adult learning theory and how would it apply to the work you would be doing as our eLearning Development Director?
How to Answer
As an eLearning Development Director, it will always be essential to know the adult learning theory and apply its principles to the online learning content you develop. Prior to your interview, be sure to research the theory and its important principles. As you research, you'll learn that the five assumptions of the theory include the following: self-concept, adult learner experience, readiness to learn, the orientation of learning, and motivation to learn. From these assumptions come the four principles that explain how to best educate adults. These principles include involvement of the students in their education, using past experiences in learning processes, having students solve problems rather than memorize information, and ensuring that information applies to their everyday lives. As you answer this question, be sure to put some thought into and explain how your work as an eLearning Development Director will take the adult learning theory into account.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"In the college setting, most of your students are transitioning from adolescence into adulthood, and ensuring that their learning materials are geared towards an adult population is very important. I am very familiar with the adult learning theory. In developing online courses, giving students the ability to self-direct their learning and use their own experiences to draw from will be vital in ensuring that they are getting the most from the program. As I work with your instructional staff, I would plan to be very creative in building eLearning classes that take into account all aspects of the adult learning theory to ensure that students put forth enough effort and pull out enough tangible information for their futures."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Leadership
33. What are one or two behaviors or attitudes that are most likely to cause conflict with you at work?
How to Answer
To get a sense of how you will interact with the various staff in this role as their eLearning Development Director, your interviewer wants you to be open and honest about the kinds of potential interpersonal challenges you might have. Prior to your interview, put some serious thought into the attitudes and behaviors that irk you the most, and don't hesitate to talk candidly about them. As you answer, make sure that you discuss how you work with these personality types, so your interviewer gets a strong sense that you can work effectively with any member of their team.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"Honestly, my two pet peeves in colleagues are lack of caring and disrespect. My parents and grandparents raised me to take pride in myself and my work, and I expect my colleagues to do the same. I was also raised to show respect for all people I work closely with and expect the same to be shown to me. I've worked with a couple of colleagues during my career that didn't give their full effort, and I was never hesitant to talk with them when I felt they could give more effort. As well, I've been in a few situations where colleagues weren't respectful. A few months ago, I had witnessed an instructor show complete disrespect towards another staff member by brushing off their opinions on a project we were working on. To draw the line, I called out the disrespect among our group of five and asked the person to start being respectful when working in my online learning development team."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Teamwork
34. Talk about a time when you disagreed with an educator. How did you work to find a positive outcome?
How to Answer
With this question, your interviewer is ultimately looking to gauge your negotiation skills. As an eLearning Development Director working hand in hand with professors, instructors and administrators, you are expected to own certain decisions in the development process. Your interviewer would like to learn that you can stand your ground while doing so tactfully and respectfully. They would also like to hear that you can leverage facts and data to persuade educators and defend your stances. As you answer this question, explain the situation and the action you took or the recommendation you made. Last, clearly explain the positive results that came from your disagreement.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"Early in my career, I ran into a very experienced professor who was very stuck in his way of doing things. Despite new state standards and a need for a new history curriculum, he was quick to buck the new curriculum heading into the program year. Having a lot of great data to support the new program, I sat down with him, and we had a heart-to-heart conversation where I presented all of the data that was driving the decision for the state. My approach was to deliver my message while also listening to his concerns. When he brought up valid concerns, I listened attentively and eased his resistance by highlighting some of the critical changes that would be happening with the new program. In the end, he left our conversation in a much better mood and even ended up thanking me for the time I took later on in the year."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Teamwork
35. As our next eLearning Development Director, what values and traits would you bring to our team that would help promote teamwork and collaboration?
How to Answer
In traditional and virtual school settings, the entire staff must collaborate to provide the best possible educational outcomes for the whole student body. In this role as an eLearning Development Director, you will regularly cooperate with instructors, administrators, and curriculum developers. Your interviewer wants to know that you can collaborate effectively with any staff member on their campus, so talk about how you facilitate cooperation. Lastly, try to explain why a true team effort is so important to the success of students.
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021
Answer Example
"Throughout my career, I've always been commended for being the ultimate team player. It begins with clear communication, including reflective listening. I value what my team wants to bring to the table, and I encourage them to brainstorm. I also rely on my ability to read people, and I try to respond appropriately. I also know my limitations. We were all educated and trained in our niche areas. I know I can't be everything to my students, nor do I try, so I never hesitate to enlist the help of a counselor, aide, principal, or curriculum developer when their expertise is needed."
Written by Ryan Brunner on November 11th, 2021