The Instructional Designers’ Field Guide is being developed as part of my Master’s Capstone in the Instructional Science and Technology program at California State University, Monterey Bay, (IRB Approved 10/16/2025, #IRB-FY26-8).
The study explores the challenges faced by early-career instructional designers and those who manage or train them. Participation involves completing a one-time, anonymous survey with open-ended questions about instructional design competencies, workplace challenges, and strategies that support success.
- Time Commitment: About 20–30 minutes.
- Voluntary Participation: Participation is completely voluntary, and you may skip any question or stop at any time without penalty.
- Confidentiality: No personal or identifying information will be collected in the survey. Responses will be stored securely and de-identified before analysis.
- Optional Incentive: After completing the survey, you will have the option to enter a separate raffle form (unlinked to your responses) for one of three $50 Visa gift cards, which will be chosen and awarded in April 2026, after the study has been completed.
If you have questions about this study, you may contact me at sarrose@csumb.edu. You may also contact the CSUMB Institutional Review Board (IRB) at irb@csumb.edu if you have questions about your rights as a participant.
The Project
The Instructional Designers’ Field Guide is a practical resource designed to support early-career instructional designers as they navigate the real-world challenges of e-learning, project management, and learner advocacy.
Rooted in graduate research and shaped by lived experience in government training, disaster response, and multimedia design, the Field Guide bridges the gap between theory and day-to-day practice. It offers tools, templates, checklists, and trauma-informed strategies that help new IDs build confidence while staying grounded in learner-centered design.
Whether you’re transitioning from the classroom, stepping into your first ID role, or seeking better ways to balance creativity, accessibility, and resilience—this guide was made with you in mind.
The Author
I’m Sara Rose, a California-based instructional designer and graduate researcher. My work blends multimedia design, trauma-informed practices, and accessible learning strategies for the modern e-learning space.
Let’s Connect
Have insights or experiences to share? I’d love to hear from you.
📧 Email: SarRose@csumb.edu
💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sararosedesigns
Fall 2025 – IRB Approved Study (IRB-FY26-8). Next: Research study launch; survey distribution and participant feedback initiated
Dec 2025 – March 2026 – Survey recruitment continues.
Spring 2026 – Survey data analysis; draft Field Guide sections created
Late Spring 2026 – Peer review and design refinement of Field Guide protypes
May 2026 – Final capstone submission to CSU Monterey Bay
Summer/Fall 2026 – Preparation for publication and public release of The Instructional Designers’ Field Guide
The Instructional Designers' Field Guide 