From Classroom to Corporate: How to Transition from Teaching to Instructional Design the Smart Way
If you’re a teacher who’s ever felt burnt out, underpaid, or simply ready for a new challenge, you’ve probably looked at instructional design (ID) and wondered, “Could I really do that?”
The answer is a definite yes. However, this move from teaching to ID is rarely straightforward. So what does it take to go from teacher to instructional designer? Read this article to find out how to begin a new adventure in learning design as an educator.
Why teachers make great instructional designers
Even if you don’t feel like it yet, most teachers already have what it takes to become amazing eLearning developers:
- Experience in breaking down complex topics
- Understanding of how people learn
- Creativity in lesson planning
- Empathy for learners
If you’ve ever built a curriculum, made adjustments for struggling students, or introduced new technology in class, you’re closer to success in ID than you think.
What’s fundamentally different in instructional design?
Despite the overlap between the two professions, there are a few major mindset and workflow shifts to expect:
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Your “students” are adults — and they’re not forced to be there
Unlike a classroom, corporate learners can tune out, multitask, or click “next” without absorbing a word from your materials. ID means designing for strong motivation, attention, and practical application.
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Collaboration with stakeholders
You’ll work with subject matter experts (SMEs), project managers, and sometimes clients who aren’t educators. They might not understand pedagogy or recognize the time required for effective training.
Pro tip: Ask questions, clarify expectations, and advocate for learners when needed. You’re an expert, and part of your your role in instructional design is to bridge the gap between how people learn and what the organization wants to achieve. This approach helps make training more effective and realistic.
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New tools and tech
From SCORM to authoring tools to LMSs, there’s an entire world of new eLearning tech you’ll need to master. But if you’ve learned to use a smartboard, Google Classroom, or Zoom, you can absolutely learn these too. And most modern authoring tools like iSpring Suite are super easy to learn even if you’ve never used this type of software before.
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Focus on business goals rather than test scores
In ID, your goal is to solve a problem or improve the performance of a specific team. The stakes (and measurement) are different, and you’ll need to learn how to prove the impact of your work in terms of business results.
Key pains teachers face when pivoting to ID
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Imposter syndrome.Suddenly, you’re the newbie again. It can feel like everyone speaks a different language.
Tip: Most IDs come from non-corporate backgrounds, so you’re not alone. Every project will grow your confidence and skills.
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Portfolio paralysis. Teaching portfolios are different. Now you need eLearning samples, storyboards, or facilitator guides.
Tip: Start small. Repurpose an old lesson into a storyboard or slide-based course as a portfolio asset.
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Job search fatigue. Applying can be draining, especially if you don’t have “official” experience.
Tip: Freelance, volunteer, or build sample projects for causes you care about. Every real project counts.
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Letting go of teaching identity. It’s hard to stop thinking of yourself as a teacher first.
Tip: Reframe your perception of this change. You’re still teaching, just in new formats and for new audiences.
Actionable steps for teachers making the leap into ID
Follow these simple steps to become an instructional designer:
- Explore the field. Join ID groups, read blogs, and watch webinars.
- Learn the ropes. Get familiar with common tools for instructional design and major ID frameworks (ADDIE, SAM, Kirkpatrick, etc.).
- Build a portfolio. Create 2–3 sample projects. Don’t aim for perfection. Try to demonstrate that you can analyze learner needs, design for outcomes, and build learning experiences.
- Network actively. LinkedIn is your new faculty lounge. Connect with other IDs, ask for advice, and join challenges or feedback groups.
- Refine your resume and story. Translate teaching accomplishments into ID outcomes. For example: “Designed differentiated instruction for diverse learners” → “Developed learning solutions for varied audience needs.” Or “Used technology to enhance classroom engagement” → “Took advantage of eLearning tools to increase learner interaction.”
- Don’t stop learning. Be curious, ask questions, and invest in your growth. For example, you can also explore instructional design certificate programs to gain new skills.
Read more on how to successfully go from teaching to ID in this free, detailed guide.
Final word
Transitioning out of the classroom is brave, and it’s absolutely doable. Yes, it’s challenging, but many teachers have already made the switch.
If you’re ready for more flexibility, better pay, and a fresh professional identity, instructional design is waiting for you. Start small, keep going, and give yourself permission to experiment in this new field.
Christine Quinn
Christine Quinn is a marketing copywriter at iSpring Solutions. She regularly reviews the latest strategies in effective eLearning design and shares her insights on the iSpring eLearning blog.
