Remote work and Learning Design: what teachers need to know before making the leap
Curious about shifting gears from the classroom to remote work in Learning Design? You're not alone. With more educators searching for flexibility and new ways to use their skills, this career path is gaining serious traction. But it's not all yoga pants and lattes—there are a few important realities to prepare for.
Hi, I'm Bianca Raby—former teacher, current CEO, and long-time advocate for educators making bold career moves into Learning Design. I've also made a video on this transition if you prefer to watch:
Learning Design and remote work: key realisations from the classroom to the cloud
When I stepped away from the whiteboard and into my first Learning Design role, I didn't even know that's what it was called. I was helping to build a professional development suite for teachers—and unknowingly building my own new career path.
In my book Online Learning: So You Want to Be a Learning Designer?, I talk about the skills and mindsets you'll need. But let me share three things I wish someone had told me about making the switch from classroom to remote work in Learning Design.
Realisation 1: remote work means full autonomy
As a teacher, your day is scripted down to the minute. You eat when the bell says. You pee when the kids leave. In remote work, especially in a freelance Learning Design role, you're in charge of your time.
Sounds great, right? It is—but only if you're self-driven and organised. There's no principal watching the clock. You'll need to build structure, set goals, and hold yourself accountable. That autonomy is freeing, but it can also feel a bit like freefall at first.
Realisation 2: the human contact dip
Classroom teaching is noisy, vibrant, chaotic. You're surrounded by people all day. Remote work flips that on its head.
The quiet? It's glorious—for about a week. Then it gets lonely. Many Learning Design roles involve long hours at a laptop with minimal interaction. You'll need to actively seek connection—whether through co-working spaces, virtual teams, or teaching live sessions to keep that spark alive.
Realisation 3: it's competitive—but you've got this
Yes, there's a growing demand for Learning Design experts. But there's also more people entering the field—some with slick portfolios and UX (user experience) backgrounds.
That doesn't mean you can't stand out. But your teaching degree alone won't do the heavy lifting. You'll need to reframe your experience, build a solid Learning Design portfolio, and learn the language of the industry. Oh, and a little hustle never hurts.
Remote work and Learning Design are worth it
Stepping into remote work through Learning Design can be life-changing. More freedom. More creativity. More alignment with how education is evolving. But it's not a magic switch—it's a transition. One that requires intentional upskilling, mindset shifts, and a whole lot of self-awareness.
And as always—stay awesome!