Student Stories
From Accidental Designer to Industry Leader: Alan’s Story
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Alan O’Flaherty transformed his career in Learning & Development with the help of the Digital Learning Institute. Here’s how he structured his success—and how you can, too.
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I’ve been the Learning, Support, and Content Manager at EazySAFE for 10 years, helping deliver Environmental, Health, and Safety training to a wide audience. Like many, I became an “Accidental Instructional Designer,” falling into this career as part of setting up the support function during a period of growth.
As technology and client needs evolved, I needed to adapt. Rapid development tools became essential, especially for projects like onboarding 8,000 contractors for a client in the construction industry after the COVID lockdown. The demand for quality, scalable eLearning required me to upskill, which is where the Digital Learning Institute (DLI) came in.
Why I Chose the Digital Learning Institute
I first completed the Associate Certificate in Instructional Design in 2016, but the Professional Diploma in Digital Learning Design took my skills to the next level. The Diploma’s structure, templates, and hands-on approach allowed me to create impactful projects, including a passion project on reducing food waste.
The program didn’t just teach theory—it guided me in applying best practices to real-world scenarios. With resources like the Kirkpatrick Model and Bloom’s Taxonomy, I now approach projects with confidence, structure, and a framework for success.
How It Impacted My Career and Business
One of the biggest benefits of the course was the community. The breakout sessions and collaboration with peers sparked ideas, re-energized my approach to work, and provided valuable support. For instance, the Diploma inspired me to propose and develop a microlearning course with the Irish Blood Transfusion Service to encourage blood donations.
The templates and tools provided by DLI have been transformative. They’ve allowed me to streamline processes, better collaborate with clients and SMEs, and confidently deliver industry-best solutions.
Alan’s Advice for Aspiring Learning Designers
If you’re considering upskilling, there’s no time like the present. The more you put into this course, the more you’ll gain. It’s a game-changer for both your career and personal growth, giving you the confidence and tools to excel in digital learning.
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