Forging the path in the third space

Opportunities and challenges for Learning Designers in Higher Education

Abstract

This concise paper explores the role of learning designers as third-space professionals in higher education, exploring both their self-perception and the perceptions held by other professionals in the sector. Learning designers play a crucial role in learning support, program design, web-based learning, and industry partnerships, being also able to challenge traditional practices and enhance student experiences and outcomes. However, a comprehensive understanding of their roles remains complex and necessitates further exploration. The challenges faced by learning designers include ambiguous role definitions and the delicate balance of meeting diverse stakeholder expectations. Through an autoethnographic approach, members from an ASCILITE Community Mentoring Program group offer insights into the multifaceted contributions of learning designers. Recognizing, working collaboratively with, and appreciating the diverse expertise of learning designers are key factors for universities to effectively address recent societal changes and meet the evolving needs of their students.