James Aitken
About Me
I am looking for a career change into a full time Instructional Design role. With a solid foundation in pedagogical training, including a Bachelor of Education in TESOL, a Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics, and a Master of Arts in Writing, I bring a wealth of knowledge and skills to the table.
Key Skills and Experience:
Twenty Years in Education – Dedicated myself to the field of education, with the last thirteen at tertiary level.
Instructional Design, Learning Facilitation, Editing and Publishing – Acquired invaluable experience across Asia, the Middle East, and Australia.
Professional Experience:
Academic English & Skills Instructor at UAE University (2012-2022) – Designed, developed and delivered all instructional materials for fourteen undergraduate courses, ranging from Research Writing to Professional Writing and creative subjects like Screenwriting and Animation.
Innovative Instructional Strategies
Implemented innovative instructional strategies across various formats that improved student engagement, comprehension, and academic achievement. Gained insights into best practices in instructional design, from Backwards Design to Cognitive Load Theory.
Technical Proficiency
Developed proficiency in current and emerging technologies, including learning management systems, interactive platforms, and graphic design and AV production software, positioning me as a capable and innovative instructional designer and editor.
Editing and Publishing
Editor of Voices Magazine – Maintained continuous liaison with stakeholders throughout the university and developed proficiency in design technologies and software, publishing nine annual editions to acclaim from students, colleagues, and administration.
Journalism – 29 articles on environmental themes.
Academic Editor – Improved articles for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
Leadership
Coordinator of Creative & Professional Writing Minor – Led a team of academics, enhanced student involvement, and significantly increased registrations.
Creative Interests:
Visual Arts – Thousands of artistic works using Procreate, Adobe CS and Affinity Designer.
Creative Writing – Passionate and unpublished writer of novels, short stories, screenplays and illustrated children’s books.
I am confident that my blend of academic background, practical experience, and passion for education makes me a strong fit for any instructional design role. I am eager leverage my skills to support an organisation’s objectives and make a lasting, positive impact on its educational outcomes and instructional framework.
Skills
Service Locations
- Vic - Melbourne
- Content Development/Curation
- Digital/eLearning
- Instructional Design
- Language, Literacy and Numeracy
