University of Denver-posted about 16 hours ago
$40 - $60/Yr
Part-time • Mid Level
Remote • Denver, CO
1,001-5,000 employees

The Frederick S. Pardee Institute for International Futures is home to International Futures (IFs), an open-source, integrated assessment and forecasting platform. IFs uses systems dynamics, econometrics, and other quantitative techniques to analyze and explore hundreds of interconnected, macro-level variables across human, social, and natural systems through the end of this century and beyond. We use IFs and other bespoke data tools to inform real-world policy debates and decisions about long-term global trends—from climate change and conflict to development and security. Our work supports a global community of multilateral organizations, governments, and practitioners who are tackling today’s most consequential issues. The Institute maintains 17 full-time staff members, employs approximately 100 students annually, and conducts an average of $1.6 million in sponsored research each year. We are housed within the University of Denver’s Josef Korbel School of International Studies, a world-class academic setting focused on training the next generation of global leaders. The Pardee Institute seeks a part-time, temporary Instructional Designer to design and build fully asynchronous, high-impact learning experiences that help professionals apply the International Futures (IFs) modeling tool in their own work. This role is a good fit for someone who: Enjoys turning complex, technical content into clear, practical learning for busy professionals. Is comfortable working with subject-matter experts (SMEs) and asking probing questions. Cares about accessibility, clean UX, and data-informed iteration. Wants a flexible, remote, project-based role with meaningful global impact. You will translate SME content into job-relevant microlearning with clear objectives, purposeful interactivity, knowledge checks with feedback, and a clean, low-friction user experience that works across bandwidth and devices. The ideal partner balances rigor and accessibility, embraces systems thinking and transparency, and designs primarily for mid-career strategists in the private and social sectors while maintaining credibility with the Institute’s policy-engaged audiences. This is a non-benefited position not to exceed 1,000 hours in a calendar year.

  • Analyze and plan Conduct a rapid needs analysis with SMEs.
  • Clarify learner profiles, workflows, and success criteria.
  • Convert high-level goals into measurable, module-level learning objectives and assessment plans (backward design).
  • Design learning architecture Sequence modules to manage cognitive load and build progressive complexity.
  • Create storyboards/outlines for 3–5-minute micro-lessons.
  • Define interaction patterns (e.g., click-throughs, diagrams, lightweight animations), reflection prompts, and practice activities.
  • Apply a toolkit of learning strategies to create engaging eLearning experiences.
  • Develop content and assets Build SCORM/xAPI-compliant modules (e.g., Articulate 360/Rise/Storyline).
  • Write scripts, on-screen text, and alt text.
  • Create simple motion/diagram assets (Vyond-style or equivalent).
  • Develop knowledge checks with targeted feedback and authentic tasks (case snippets, mini-projects) tied to IFs use cases.
  • Quality assurance and accessibility Apply universal design for learning (UDL) and accessibility practices (color/contrast, keyboard navigation, captions/transcripts, descriptive alt text).
  • Use multimedia learning principles (e.g., signaling, coherence) and cognitive load checks.
  • Coordinate and incorporate peer/SME reviews; refine UX for clarity and ease of use.
  • Implementation and iteration Package and publish modules to the LMS/LRS; verify tracking and reporting.
  • Set up simple dashboards for completion, time-on-task, and item analysis.
  • Run lightweight pilots, analyze data, and deliver revisions to improve clarity, engagement, and performance.
  • Collaboration and project management Maintain project schedules and track risks and issues.
  • Facilitate asynchronous reviews and communicate trade-offs clearly (quality, time, scope, cost).
  • Document key decisions to preserve transparency and responsible interpretation of forecasts.
  • Generative AI use | Experience using AI in eLearning workflows (e.g., avatar-based presenter videos, AI-assisted whiteboard/animation) and ability to script, storyboard, and refine outputs (voice consistency, pacing, lip-sync, gestures, visual timing) to feel natural and non-distracting.
  • AI literacy | Ability to design prompts, iterate thoughtfully, and apply guardrails to manage hallucinations, bias, and style drift—including knowing when to step away from AI and craft content manually.
  • Tools & tech | Proficiency with Articulate 360 (Rise/Storyline), Vyond-style animation or equivalent tools, basic image/video editing, SCORM/xAPI packaging, and LMS workflows.
  • Accessibility & UX | Practical understanding of UDL; WCAG-aligned habits (captions, transcripts, alt text, color contrast); mobile-first, low-bandwidth design.
  • Content translation | Ability to turn complex modeling concepts (systems, scenarios, uncertainty) into clear, applied learning for busy professionals without overclaiming or oversimplifying.
  • Writing & visualization | Concise microcopy, plain-language narration, and instructional graphics that reduce cognitive load.
  • Collaboration & PM | Structured storyboarding, version control, review cycles, and stakeholder facilitation; comfort working asynchronously and transparently.
  • Data-informed iteration | Ability to use basic analytics (e.g., completion rates, item difficulty, distractor analysis) to drive revisions.
  • Learning science & methods | Familiarity with adult learning theory, cognitive load, backward design, constructive alignment, microlearning, scenario-based learning, and authentic assessment design.
  • Current enrollment in a master’s-level Instructional Design, Learning Sciences, Educational Technology, Human-Centered Design, or related program or a completed bachelor’s degree in these or related fields.
  • Or 3–5+ years of experience developing asynchronous eLearning for adult professionals, including measurable outcomes and knowledge checks.
  • Demonstrated portfolio that showcases microlearning, scenario-based activities, assessment alignment, accessibility practices, and clean UX and interaction design.
  • Master’s degree in Instructional Design, Learning Sciences, or a related field.
  • Experience designing for data/modeling tools, analytical software, or technical platforms.
  • Familiarity with—or interest in developing familiarity with—International Futures (IFs) or systems-thinking education.
  • Experience with xAPI analytics dashboards, light motion graphics, and diagram-first explanations.
  • Background collaborating with research institutes, think tanks, or policy audiences.
  • The University of Denver offers some benefits for non-benefited employees.
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