Learning Design Specialist

Eligibility (Mandatory): All UAE nationals are eligible to apply, as this role is designated to support the employer’s compliance with UAE Emiratisation requirements under applicable employment regulations. Applications from candidates who do not meet this eligibility cannot be considered.

Ajman University is looking to hire a Learning Design Specialist (UAE Nationals Only) based in Ajman.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Learning Design Specialist supports faculty in the design and delivery of high-quality learning experiences across face-to-face, blended, and online courses. The role applies evidence-based pedagogy, instructional design models, and innovative technologies to enhance teaching effectiveness and student engagement. This position also provides professional development for faculty, promotes inclusive and accessible teaching practices, and contributes to advancing Ajman University’s commitment to teaching excellence.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Collaborate with faculty and subject matter experts to design and develop engaging and effective courses.
• Apply evidence-based instructional design models (e.g., ADDIE, SAM, Backward Design) to create course structures, learning outcomes, instructional materials, and authentic assessments aligned with institutional standards.
• Design and deliver workshops, seminars, and short courses for faculty on:
• Pedagogy and learning theories
• Classroom facilitation techniques
• Learning design principles
• Assessment strategies and feedback methods
• Use of educational technologies and digital tools
• Provide individual consultations and coaching to faculty on teaching practices and course development.
• Review and enhance existing courses to ensure alignment with best practices, accreditation standards, and inclusive teaching principles.
• Collect and analyze feedback from faculty and students to inform continuous improvement in teaching and learning.
• Keep abreast of emerging trends in instructional design, learning technologies, and higher education teaching innovation.
• Pilot and recommend new approaches to enhance student learning and faculty teaching effectiveness.
• Contribute to the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) through internal/external presentations and knowledge sharing.
• Collaborate with librarians, multimedia specialists, and IT teams to design integrated learning experiences.
• Manage multiple projects, ensuring quality and timely delivery.
• Develop and share templates, frameworks, and best practices with the teaching community.

QUALIFICATION & EXPERIENCE:

• Master’s degree in Education, Educational Technology, Instructional Design, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in learning design and faculty development within higher education.
• Demonstrated experience in designing and facilitating professional development sessions or workshops for faculty in both Arabic and English.
• In-depth knowledge of instructional design models, adult learning principles, and pedagogical frameworks.
• Experience with quality assurance frameworks (e.g., Quality Matters).
• Experience in designing competency-based and/or experiential learning programs.

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS:

• Ability to translate pedagogical theory into practical, faculty-facing training and support.
• Familiarity with accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG) and inclusive design practices.
• Proficiency with Learning Management Systems (Moodle) and authoring tools (Articulate, H5P, Captivate, etc.).
• Strong facilitation, presentation, and coaching skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a diverse academic environment.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Collaborative and proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Commitment to continuous professional development.