Learning Designer - Directorate of Comprehensive Online and Education and Services at University of Pretoria/Universiteit van Pretoria

RESPONSIBILITIES:

The incumbent will be responsible for:

• Providing curriculum, learning and instructional design services to develop programmes that are offered fully online;
• Developing interactive educational materials suitable for fully online learning in collaboration with subject matter experts, graphic artists and videographers;
• Providing first-line support through channels such as phone, e-mail, chat, web-conferencing and drop-in consultations, and act as single point of contact to assist academic staff;
• Modelling effective design practices and creating engaging learning activities and compelling course content that enhances retention and transfer;
• Managing and facilitating training opportunities relating to fully online learning for both individuals and larger groups & align these opportunities with the strategic objectives of the University;
• The project management of multiple development teams and projects;
• Teaching fully online modules and modelling best practises;
• Conducting research on topics relating to fully online learning and disseminating findings;
• Participating in marketing and liaison activities, e.g. the maintenance of the departmental website, the development of marketing material for new fully online programmes, and the creation of a social media presence.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Post level 8:

• A relevant Master’s degree in Computer- integrated Education, Educational Technology, Curriculum Development or Academic Development OR
• A Masters-level qualification in any academic discipline, with extensive experience in technology integration, online learning, or distance learning.

Post level 7:

• A relevant PhD in Computer- integrated Education, Educational Technology, Curriculum Development or Academic Development OR
• A PhD in a relevant academic field, with extensive experience in technology integration, online learning, or distance learning.

 REQUIRED COMPETENCIES (SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND BEHAVIOURAL ATTRIBUTES):

• Expert knowledge of learning theories, teaching strategies and best practices in an e-learning environment;
• Advanced knowledge of higher education policy frameworks as it relates to curriculum design, teaching, learning, assessment, educational technology, open educational resources, distance learning, and student success;
• Expert level of computer literacy, technical skills and the ability to troubleshoot;
• Seasoned knowledge of learning management systems, authoring systems and elearning tools
• Expert knowledge of web and visual design principles;
• Advanced level of visual design skills (e.g. Articulate 360, Rise, Photoshop, Illustrator or similar software) and ability to storyboard;
• Advanced level of ability to write effective copy, instructional text, and audio/video scripts;
• Expert ability to integrate AI tools into learning design workflows (e.g., for ideation, content generation, analysis, or feedback), with an advanced understanding of the ethical, pedagogical, and data privacy considerations involved;
• Basic knowledge of programming, ICT hardware and network configuration;
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills;
• Decision-making and leadership capabilities;
• Expertise in conflict resolution and relationship building;
• Adaptability and willingness to deal with constant change;
• Strong verbal and written communication skills;
• Organisational skills, including attention to detail and multitasking;
• Ability to work under pressure and a tolerance for high levels of stress.

ADDED ADVANTAGES AND PREFERENCES:

Post level 8:

• Working towards a Doctorate degree (e.g. in Computer-integrated Education, Educational Technology, Curriculum Development or Academic Development)
• Project management experience
• Curriculum and instructional design and development experience
• Extensive experience in working in a learning management system and various authoring tools, online applications, services and tools
• Experience within Academic environment in a Higher Educational Institution.

Post level 7:

• NRF rating
• Project management experience
• Curriculum and instructional design and development experience
• Extensive experience in working in a learning management system and various authoring tools, online applications, services and tools
• Experience within Academic environment in a Higher Educational Institution.

CLOSING DATE: 9 February 2026