The most effective online learning experiences are designed by instructional designers and SMEs who are on the same page. When these two parties both feel that they have an equal voice in the conversation and a partnership is established, the best possible learning experience is achieved.

It is worth emphasizing the use of the word “equal.” If you successfully create appropriate boundaries and guidelines, the project will run smoothly. Common struggles, such as tension due to disengagement from SMEs or conflict around the validity of online courses as effective teaching methods, can lead to chaos in the design process. While most instructional design courses will teach about designing curricula, utilizing learning theories, the topic of collaborating with SMEs doesn’t receive as much attention.

"A true instructional designer is a relationship manager. I believe that my ability to collaborate with SMEs is a significant reason why my courses receive high student praise and feedback. In this course, I’ll describe everything I know about working with SMEs that have different kinds of personalities." - Dr. Luke Hobson

By the end of this course, you'll develop actionable steps to ensure that you can build strong professional relationships with your SMEs. You'll hear about real-world challenges, and how to overcome them. You’ll also receive personalized feedback from Luke to help you connect with any SME.

Hi!

I’m Dr. Luke Hobson and I'm a learning nerd! I'm an Assistant Director of Instructional Design, a Lecturer in the Department of Teaching and Learning at the University of Miami’s School of Education and Human Development, the author of What I Wish I Knew Before Becoming an Instructional Designer, and the Instructor for Instructional Design Institute. I’ve been named as one of the top learning influencers in 2022 and top e-learning experts in 2023. I started my career in higher education in 2013 and I've never left!

My passions are teaching, learning, and instructional design! I believe in providing you with practical applications and helping you develop real tangible skills. I’ve been told that my superpower is being able to take complex ideas and translate them into simple takeaways for you to learn from.

What I care about the most is creating meaningful and relevant learning experiences and providing every opportunity for my students.

On a personal note, I’m a husband, dog dad, musician, podcaster, and a health and fitness nut.

I’m looking forward to meeting you!

Module 1

Establishing a Relationship

During this module, Luke shares his tips for building a solid working relationship with a SME.

• Learn about:
  • Getting to know the SME
  • Explaining your role
  • Strengthening professional relationships
  • Managing preferences

• Engage with:
  • Sharing about empathizing with a SME
  • Scenario-based problem centered on communication
  • Reflecting on your own working style

Module 2

Influencing and Caring About the Experience

Luke introduces strategies and tactics for a more successful collaborative experience during the development of a course.

• Learn about
  • Demoing a learning experience
  • Removing barriers and explaining the design process
  • Setting deadlines and expectations
  • Giving feedback to the SME
  • Working with challenging SMEs

• Engage with:
  • Influencing without power
  • Practicing giving feedback
  • Journaling on listening skills
  • Submitting a walkthrough

Module 3

Re-engaging with Unresponsive SMEs

In this module, Luke shares how to get SMEs to respond back and to make sure your project moves in the right direction. 

• Learn about
  • Reaching out in different ways
  • Making the process easier for SMEs
  • Being persistent 
  • Using your network
  • Using your SME's network

• Engage with:
  • Practicing new communication methods with AI
  • Journaling on past experiences
  • Submitting a presentation on transforming a course
  • Reflecting upon the learning experience

Will I get feedback from Luke directly?

Yes! Luke will review your main assignments (one each week) and offer insights and personalized feedback to you.

Will I receive a certificate of completion?

Yes! Once you complete all the necessary components in the course, you'll receive your certificate.

Are there any live sessions? Will I get to meet Luke?

There are no live sessions in this course - this allows for more flexibility in allowing participants to start at anytime. However, Luke will give you direct, personalized feedback on your work in this course.

If I have a question, can I connect with Luke?

Yes! You can always email Luke (luke@drlukehobson.com).