Instructional Designer vs. UX Designer: What Are the Differences?
Learn about the two careers and review some of the similarities and differences between them.
If you’re interested in a career in design, you may be wondering what the difference is between an instructional designer and a UX designer. Both roles require creativity, strong communication skills and the ability to work with a team. However, there are several key differences between the two positions. In this article, we discuss the similarities and differences between instructional designers and UX designers, and we provide tips for pursuing a career in each field.
What is an Instructional Designer?
Instructional Designers create educational materials and design learning experiences for both online and offline settings. They use their knowledge of instructional theories and learning principles to create engaging and effective educational content. This can include designing course modules, creating assessment tools and developing instructional videos. Instructional Designers often collaborate with subject matter experts, developers and other professionals to create comprehensive educational materials. They also conduct research to evaluate the effectiveness of their instructional materials and make necessary improvements.
What is an UX Designer?
An UX Designer is responsible for creating and improving user experiences for digital products, like websites and apps. They work with teams of developers and other designers to create products that are not only useful, but also easy and enjoyable to use. UX Designers conduct user research, create prototypes and design user interfaces. They also test products before they launch to ensure that they meet users’ needs.
Instructional Designer vs. UX Designer
Here are the main differences between an instructional designer and an UX designer.
Job Duties
Instructional designers focus on creating educational materials and courses for students. They create instructional strategies, then develop course material based on those strategies. Instructional designers may work with subject matter experts to understand the needs of a particular course or student group. Then, they use research data to determine what type of instruction is most helpful for that group.
UX designers also create digital products, but their job duties are different. While instructional designers create courses and materials, UX designers focus on improving existing products rather than creating new ones. They often conduct user research to identify pain points in current products and suggest improvements to help users more easily navigate a product.
Job Requirements
Instructional designers typically need to have a bachelor’s degree in instructional design, educational technology, communication or a related field. Some instructional designers also pursue a master’s degree in instructional design or education. Many instructional designers are certified through the Association for Talent Development (ATD) or eLearning Industry (eLI). These certifications can help instructional designers stand out to potential employers and show that they have the skills needed to be successful in the field.
UX designers usually need to have a bachelor’s degree in graphic design, web design, human-computer interaction or a related field. Some UX designers also pursue a master’s degree in UX design or a related field. Many UX designers are certified through the User Experience Professionals Association (UXPA). This certification can help UX designers demonstrate their skills and knowledge to potential employers.
Work Environment
Instructional designers typically work in an office setting, but they may also travel to meet with clients and collaborate on projects. They often work full time during regular business hours, but some instructional designers freelance or work part-time as well.
UX designers usually work in an office environment, but they may also travel to meet with clients and collaborate on projects. UX designers often work full time during regular business hours, but some freelance or work part-time as well.
Skills
Salary
Instructional designers earn an average salary of $76,880 per year, while UX designers earn an average salary of $93,664 per year. Both of these salaries can vary depending on the type of company you work for, your level of experience and your location.