At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and development of engaging online learning modules.
- Company: Join Arden University, a progressive institution focused on accessible education.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible home-based work, rolled-up holiday pay, and a generous pension plan.
- Other info: This role is open to UK applicants only; apply early as positions may close quickly.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative team dedicated to enhancing student success in digital learning.
- Qualifications: Experience in online learning design and strong communication skills are essential.
Minimum hours: 90 hours per module School: School of Business Management & Executive Education Department: Department of Marketing Working model: Home-based with occasional travel to the office Rates of Pay: £34.60 per hour (which includes rolled upholiday pay) * This is a \'worker contract\' position, and due to the working model, only applicants based in the UK are eligible to apply. The hours stated are not guaranteed, and lesson allocation will be determined by the school\'s needs. * We do not offer remote contracts at Arden University. If this role is primarily home-based, the closest contract location to your address will be listed as your official work location. The Opportunity We are excited to announce a fantastic opportunity for an Academic Learning Design Lead: Module Design and Development to join Arden University’s dynamic Marketing Department. In this role, you will lead the academic design and development of high-quality modules within our Virtual Learning Environment (iLearn, built on Moodle). Working collaboratively with colleagues across academic and professional services teams, you will create engaging, inclusive, and innovative learning experiences that align with Arden’s Prepare, Engage, Demonstrate (PED) model. Your contributions will be central to advancing our mission of supporting student continuation, engagement, and success in our distance learning environment. The design and development of modules need to be created for the following areas of expertise: Digital Advertising Search Engine Optimisation and Copywriting User Experience Design Digital Marketing Campaigns Research for Digital Marketing Main Responsibilities Module Design Leadership: Lead the academic design of assigned modules, aligning with learning outcomes, institutional strategy, and the PED model. Collaborative Design Process: Contribute to key development stages, including Kick-off Meetings, Design Workshops, Sprints, and Sign-Off. Content Creation and Co-Development: Develop and co-create pedagogically sound online lessons, integrating interactive and multimedia-rich elements. Assessment Development: Design authentic, inclusive, and feedback-focused assessment tasks. Timeliness and Communication: Proactively manage progress, meet deadlines, and flag risks or challenges early. Quality Assurance: Work with Academic Reviewers to ensure modules meet academic and pedagogical standards. Professional Development: Engage with training to stay current on digital skills, pedagogy, and emerging technologies. About You: As our new Academic Learning Design Lead: Module Design and Development you will have a passion for creating structured, interactive, and learner-centred experiences. You’ll bring experience in designing or delivering online or blended learning modules and understand how to build multimedia-rich, engaging environments. Strong written communication skills, an understanding of inclusive and accessible design principles, and the ability to work collaboratively in agile, sprint-based processes are essential. You’ll be comfortable working with tools such as Moodle, Padlet, Mentimeter, and H5P – or eager to learn – and be curious about how AI-supported tools can further enhance content creation. Above all, you’ll be collaborative, innovative, and learner-focused, ensuring every design decision puts our students’ success at the forefront. Skills & Knowledge Experience designing or delivering online/blended learning modules or activities. Ability to create engaging, structured, and learner-centred experiences. Proficiency in or enthusiasm to learn tools such as Moodle, Padlet, Mentimeter, and H5P. Understanding of assessment practices that support feedback and student success. Familiarity with inclusive and accessible design principles (e.g., WCAG 2.2). Experience with flipped classroom, constructivist, or active learning pedagogies is desirable. Personal Attributes Collaborative: Embraces teamwork and co-creation. Innovative: Designs dynamic learning experiences with creativity. Learner-Centred: Keeps students’ needs and engagement at the core of design decisions. Adaptable and Agile: Thrives in iterative, fast-paced environments. Solution-Focused: Finds proactive, creative solutions to challenges. Digitally Curious: Open to new tools and emerging technologies. Reflective: Committed to continuous improvement and learning. If you’re passionate about designing outstanding digital learning experiences and ready to take the next step in your career, we would love to hear from you. Why Arden: At Arden, you will become a part of a passionate and dedicated team who are committed to removing unnecessary barriers to learning and making education more accessible. Our people work hard to ensure our students journeys are the best they can possibly be, as such we want to reward our people with fantastic benefits. Workers benefit from: Access to: UK Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) - by Health Assured Menopause at Work and Wellbeing Hubs Various discounts and savings schemes Rolled up holiday pay, and we even throw in Christmas closure! A generous Aviva pension plan, with a company contribution of 7% (subject to eligibility) Arden’s values: Stand out, Progressive, Accessible, Resourceful, Kindness, reflect who we are as an institution, a team and as individuals. If they also reflect you and you are excited by the chance to be the driving, creative force within a growing business, we want to hear from you. Closing Date: Wednesday 18th June 2025 Please note that while a closing date has been provided for this role, it is an urgent vacancy, and we will review applications, shortlist, and interview as they are received. As such, the role may close prior to the advertised closing date if a suitable candidate is identified. We therefore encourage interested applicants to submit their applications as soon as possible to ensure they are considered for this opportunity. Arden University is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer. This means that if you have a disability, as defined by the Disability Equality Act 2010, you may be guaranteed an interview if you meet the essential criteria for the role. If you wish to be considered under this scheme, indicate this through in the application form below. By doing so, you are also consenting for this information to be shared with the hiring team. For more details on what qualifies as a disability under the Disability Equality Act 2010, please refer to the guidance here. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we celebrate diversity and are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. Therefore, we ensure our recruitment and selection processes never discriminate based upon people\'s age, disability, gender, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation, or other personal circumstances, and actively welcome applications from all groups. #J-18808-Ljbffr
Academic Learning Design Lead (Module Design and Development) in Coventry employer: Arden University
Arden University is an exceptional employer that prioritises accessibility and inclusivity in education, fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture. As part of our dedicated team, you will enjoy benefits such as a generous pension plan, access to wellbeing resources, and opportunities for professional development, all while contributing to meaningful learning experiences for students. With a commitment to continuous improvement and a supportive environment, Arden is the perfect place for those looking to make a significant impact in the field of academic design.
Contact Details:
Arden University Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Academic Learning Design Lead (Module Design and Development) in Coventry
✨Showcase Your Expertise with a Public Portfolio
As a freelancer in the digital learning and education space, having a strong public portfolio is crucial. Create a website or a blog where you can share your projects, case studies, and even testimonials from past clients. This not only demonstrates your skills but also lets potential clients see your unique approach to digital learning.
✨Engage in Digital Learning Communities
Join online forums, Facebook groups, or LinkedIn communities dedicated to education technology and freelance educators. Engage with discussions, share insights, and make connections. Remember, many gigs can come from these informal networks as people often post their needs or recommendations there.
✨Attend EdTech Events and Webinars
Keep an eye out for virtual and local events related to education technology. These gatherings are perfect for networking and finding freelance opportunities. Don’t be shy about promoting your services or sharing your work during Q&A sessions—visibility is key!
✨Direct Outreach to Potential Clients
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We think you need these skills to ace Academic Learning Design Lead (Module Design and Development) in Coventry
Experience in designing or delivering online/blended learning modules
Ability to create engaging, structured, and learner-centred experiences
Proficiency in Moodle, Padlet, Mentimeter, and H5P
Understanding of assessment practices that support feedback and student success
Familiarity with inclusive and accessible design principles (e.g., WCAG 2.2)
Experience with flipped classroom, constructivist, or active learning pedagogies
Strong written communication skills
Collaborative mindset for teamwork and co-creation
Innovative approach to designing dynamic learning experiences
Adaptability to thrive in iterative, fast-paced environments
Solution-focused attitude to find proactive, creative solutions
Curiosity about new tools and emerging technologies
Commitment to continuous improvement and reflective practice
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Digital Skills:In the digital learning and education space, it’s crucial to highlight your technical proficiencies. Make sure to include relevant tools you’ve used, like LMS platforms, authoring tools, or any e-learning software. We're interested in seeing how you've leveraged these skills in either previous projects or course development.
Portfolio is Key!:As a freelancer, your portfolio is your best friend. Showcase your previous digital learning projects, course designs, or any educational content you’ve created. Include links to anything you’ve developed—this is our way of seeing your creative flair and effectiveness in real-world applications.
Tailor Your Application for Each Project:Freelance roles often require a bespoke approach. When applying for Academic Learning Design Lead (Module Design and Development) at Arden University, personalise your cover letter to reflect your understanding of their specific needs in digital learning, and how your background aligns with their goals. Make it clear why you are the perfect fit for them!
Rates and Availability Matter:Being freelance means you need to be upfront about your rates and availability. Include that information in your application, so Arden University knows what to expect. It gives a professional touch and sets the stage for clear communication from the get-go.
How to prepare for a job interview at Arden University
✨Know Your EdTech Tools
Before your chat with Arden University, make sure you're familiar with popular digital learning platforms like Moodle or Moodle plugins. Being able to discuss your experience with these tools will really set you apart, especially since they play a crucial role in the education tech space.
✨Show Off Your Portfolio
As a freelancer, your portfolio is your best friend. Bring your A-game by showcasing case studies that highlight your ability to create engaging content or effective learning modules. Tailor what you show to the specific needs of Arden University and make sure to point out how your work has improved learning outcomes.
✨Discuss Learning Trends
Be ready to chat about current trends in digital learning, like gamification or adaptive learning. Arden University is likely looking for someone who stays up to date with industry shifts and can incorporate fresh ideas into their projects—proving you're not just about delivery but innovation too!
✨Pitching Your Rates Confidently
Since this is a freelance gig, come prepared to discuss your rates confidently. Know your worth and how your skills align with what Arden University needs. Be ready to justify your prices based on your experience and the value you bring—they'll appreciate your professionalism!