Developing a Learning Technologist

Since having our apprentices, I've since realised that I need to educate them in the Learning Technologist role.  They predominantly create content, however they do need to have the knowledge and experience to support others in the use of learning technology.  So, to make sure I am teaching them everything I know and more, I need to have some sort of guideline to work to develop them.  But then it got me thinking, what should a learning technologist know?  Below is a list that I will be working towards over the next few months to make sure our apprentices have a greater understanding of their wider role.  It's a broad list that can cover a wide range and it's not exhaustive.

Learning and teaching:

• What is learning
• Learning theories
• What is teaching
• What is assessment
• What are Learning Technologies and the types of Learning Technologies
• What is eLearning and the types of eLearning
• Multimedia in eLearning
• eLearning design
• Facilitating eLearning and working with difference and inclusivity
• Current global markets and trends in eLearning and practices

Technology:

• Social networking
• Online tools and resources
• eLearning packages
• Devices (mobiles, tablets, laptops, Interactive Whiteboard, digital cameras, lecture capture)
• Applications
• Emerging technologies and horizon scanning
• Impact and evaluation of eLearning
• Accessibility
• Copyright

Developing individual expertise:

• ICT skills
• Specialist area(s)
• Reflective practice
• Curate resources
• Working in an academic environment
• Network researching in own and organisational pedagogic practice

When they are confident and competent in their roles.  I would like them to participate in the Certified Membership of the Association for Learning Technology (CMALT) scheme as it's really useful for their professional and future development.  It helped me greatly when I first did it.