OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE BUSINESS ANALYST IN THE LEARNING INDUSTRY
The equivalent of “Business Analyst” in the learning industry is the “instructional/learning systems designer” whose roles have been rapidly expanding in all aspects of instruction. S/he now plays a bigger part in consulting with faculty members on pedagogy and on course design—as well as how to determine the best ways to use educational technology in all types of courses. In this process, they face frustrated faculty who have a hard time learning how to manage the new educational technology and who are not convinced on its efficacy!
Digital media, on-line learning technology and learning management systems have been present in education for several decades now. Have they been successful in bridging the gap between the new technology server, the instructor and the learner? No, is the clear answer. Hence the need for the Learning Systems Designer!
Universities are reluctant to forge ties with giant firms, such as Microsoft, Oracle, Pearson Systems, because of their regional language requirements and reluctance to tackle large projects. It is for this reason that Business Analysts have the potential to make strong inroads in education if they focus on offering small-to-medium-scale and tailor-made learning solutions. Guiding light: Effective learning technology is one that facilitates student interaction.
Deniz Saral
PhD, Chief Consultant to the Board and CEO
Ferrocom Investment Corp