Network18 Instructional Designer Interview: Rounds, Questions and Preparation

What the job involves

An Instructional Designer in Edtech, media and entertainment creates engaging learning experiences, such as online courses, training modules, and educational videos, often for platforms that teach media skills, digital literacy, or corporate training. At a company like Network18, you might design courses on journalism, broadcast production, or compliance, working with subject matter experts and using tools like Articulate Storyline or Adobe Captivate. The role blends pedagogy, content development, and basic multimedia production to make learning effective and scalable.

Role and Technical Knowledge

1. 1

   What is the ADDIE model, and how would you apply it to design a training module for a media house?

   Explain each phase (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, Evaluation) and give a media-specific example, like training journalists on new broadcast software.

2. 2

   How do you ensure your instructional design is accessible and inclusive for diverse learners in an edtech context?

   Mention WCAG guidelines, captions, alt text, and multiple formats; relate to media content like videos and podcasts.

3. 3

   What is the difference between synchronous and asynchronous learning, and when would you use each in a media training program?

   Define both, and suggest synchronous for live workshops (e.g., camera handling) and asynchronous for self-paced modules (e.g., ethics training).

4. 4

   How would you measure the effectiveness of a learning module you designed for a media company?

   Discuss Kirkpatrick's levels (reaction, learning, behavior, results) and mention metrics like completion rates, quiz scores, and on-the-job performance.

Practical Scenarios

1. 5

   You need to design a 30-minute e-learning module on 'fake news detection' for journalism students. Outline your process from start to finish.

   Cover needs analysis, learning objectives, storyboarding, content sourcing, interactive elements, and assessment; emphasize media literacy.

2. 6

   A subject matter expert gives you dry, text-heavy content for a video production course. How do you make it engaging?

   Suggest chunking, visuals, real-world examples, branching scenarios, and interactive quizzes; mention tools like Storyline.

3. 7

   Your LMS is outdated and doesn't support the interactive features you want. What do you do?

   Show problem-solving: propose workarounds, pilot alternative tools, or advocate for upgrades with cost-benefit analysis.

4. 8

   You have to design a compliance training on copyright for a media company. How would you handle complex legal concepts?

   Simplify with scenarios, case studies, and job aids; consult legal experts and include knowledge checks.

Behavioral and Teamwork

1. 9

   Tell me about a time you worked with a subject matter expert who was difficult to communicate with.

   Use STAR method: describe the situation, your empathetic approach, active listening, and the positive outcome.

2. 10

   Describe a project where you had to meet a tight deadline. How did you manage?

   Highlight prioritization, time management tools, and collaboration; mention any trade-offs and lessons learned.

3. 11

   Give an example of how you incorporated feedback to improve a learning design.

   Show openness to critique, iterative design, and how feedback led to better learner engagement or outcomes.

4. 12

   How do you stay updated with trends in instructional design and media technology?

   Mention blogs, podcasts, webinars, professional groups (e.g., ATD), and experimenting with new tools.

HR and Motivation

1. 13

   Why do you want to work as an instructional designer in the media and entertainment industry?

   Connect your passion for education and media, and mention the impact of well-designed training in a fast-paced industry.

2. 14

   What do you know about our company's work in edtech or media training?

   Research the company's initiatives (e.g., Network18's educational content or CSR programs) and link to your skills.

3. 15

   Where do you see yourself in three years in this role?

   Show ambition to grow into senior instructional design, specialize in media learning, or lead projects, while staying committed.

4. 16

   What are your salary expectations for this role as a fresher?

   Research industry standards for entry-level instructional designers in India; give a reasonable range and express flexibility.