Best Practices for Collaboration Between Outsourced Instructional Designers and Teachers

Collaboration between teachers and outsourced instructional designers (IDs) can sometimes feel like a buddy-cop movie. One is all about classroom management, deep curriculum knowledge, and a knack for deciphering teenage hieroglyphics (a.k.a. text messages). The other specializes in instructional strategies, e-learning tools, and making PowerPoints that don’t look like they were created in 1998. Together, they can be an unstoppable duo, creating engaging and effective learning experiences. But, as in every great partnership, success lies in understanding each other’s strengths and working cohesively. Here are some best practices to ensure a harmonious and productive collaboration.

"As an instructional designer, I work closely with subject matter experts to make sure that the curriculum meets their objectives and is also engaging for learners. It’s all about collaboration." – Liz Linares, Instructional Designer, MATC Group


Why Teachers Should Collaborate with Instructional Designers

A 2022 Gallup poll revealed that more than four in 10 K-12 workers in the U.S. (44 percent) “always” or “very often” feel burned out—the highest percentage of any industry. This burnout contributes to a workforce that is leaving the profession at a high rate, though many dedicated teachers continue to support their students and communities. Outsourcing can provide the necessary support to relieve some of this pressure, allowing educators to focus on teaching without being overwhelmed by curriculum development. It also enhances the quality of education by incorporating the latest technological advancements. 

  • Relieving the Overload: Teachers are jugglers, balancing lesson planning, grading, extracurricular activities, and the occasional parent-teacher conference that spirals into a TED Talk. Instructional designers can help take some of the planning load off by crafting structured, innovative lessons that align with learning goals.
  • Enhancing Student Engagement: IDs specialize in spicing up content delivery. Whether it’s gamified quizzes, interactive modules, or bite-sized micro-learning videos, they’ve got tricks up their sleeves that keep students hooked.
  • Keeping Things Fresh: Education trends and tech tools change faster than you can say “flipped classroom.” IDs stay on top of these developments, ensuring teachers have access to cutting-edge strategies and platforms.
  • Objective Perspective: Sometimes, being too close to your curriculum can make it hard to see what needs improvement. IDs bring fresh eyes and a strategic approach to design and delivery.


So, if you’re a teacher reading this, think of IDs as your instructional fairy godparents. They’re not here to steal your wand; they’re here to help you cast better spells.

“We take an iterative approach, checking in with SMEs at various stages of the process to make sure that the different needs are being met.” – Joe McMorrow, Instructional Designer, MATC Group

Best Practices for a Productive Collaboration

Collaboration between teachers and instructional designers can lead to transformative learning experiences—but only if approached with intentionality and mutual respect. By blending their unique expertise, teachers and IDs can create engaging, effective lessons tailored to students’ needs. The following best practices provide a roadmap to foster productive partnerships, ensuring that both sides feel supported and aligned throughout the process.

  1. Start with a Shared Vision. Begin every collaboration by aligning on objectives. Discuss the learning goals, target audience, and any specific challenges. A shared vision ensures everyone’s rowing in the same direction—because no one wants to end up paddling in a circle.
    Tip: Use visual brainstorming tools like mind maps or virtual whiteboards to clarify ideas. Just don’t let the session devolve into a doodling contest—unless it’s educational doodling.
  2. Communicate Clearly and Often. Communication is the lifeblood of any collaboration. Establish regular check-ins, use collaborative tools (like Slack, Trello, or Google Workspace), and don’t be shy about asking questions or clarifying points.
    Tip: Teachers, remember that IDs may not know your students as well as you do. And IDs, keep in mind that teachers might not speak fluent “designer-ese.” Avoid jargon unless you’re ready to decode it.
  3. Respect Each Other’s Expertise. Teachers bring invaluable knowledge about their students and subject matter. IDs bring expertise in instructional strategies and tech integration. Respecting these strengths fosters trust and collaboration.
    Tip: Remember, teachers, just because IDs love PowerPoint doesn’t mean they’re incapable of real human emotions. And IDs, not every teacher wants to turn their lesson into a VR experience.
  4. Embrace Flexibility. Education isn’t one-size-fits-all, and neither is instructional design. Be prepared to iterate. What looks great on paper (or screen) might need tweaking once it hits the classroom. Stay open to feedback and adjust accordingly.
    Example: A lesson plan involving group activities may work brilliantly for one classroom but flop in another with fewer resources. Collaborate to adapt the activity for different contexts, such as individual work with peer review.
  5. Leverage Technology Wisely. Instructional designers often bring a tech-heavy toolkit to the table. Teachers should feel empowered to explore these tools but also communicate what works for their classrooms.
    Example: If an ID proposes a platform requiring students to download five apps, it’s okay to push back and suggest something simpler.
  6. Test and Reflect. Pilot your collaborative efforts on a small scale before rolling them out widely. Gather student feedback, reflect on what worked, and refine as needed. Think of it as a test drive—but with less pressure to parallel park.
    Tip: Use quick surveys or informal class discussions to gauge student reactions. A simple question like, “What did you like most about today’s lesson?” can yield valuable insights for improvement.

Three people wearing headphones, one is looking over the shoulder of one of the other two, who are working at computers. Text under image reads: “To overcome resistance from hesitant teachers or staff towards educational technology, provide comprehensive, hands-on training tailored to different skill levels…This investment in professional development underscores the commitment to their growth and the value of integrating technology into education.” - Rahul Moorjani, Director of Skills & STEM Education, 1 Million for 1 Billion

Overcoming Common Collaboration Hurdles

Collaboration isn’t always smooth sailing, and even the most well-intentioned partnerships can face obstacles. Recognizing these common hurdles—and having strategies to address them—can help build stronger, more effective relationships between teachers and instructional designers. Here’s how to tackle some of the most frequent challenges:

  • Time Constraints. Teachers and IDs often have packed schedules that make it difficult to meet regularly. To save time, use asynchronous updates like recorded video walkthroughs, share drafts or materials in advance, and set clear priorities for each meeting.
  • Resistance to Change. Change can feel daunting, especially if teachers perceive new methods as a critique of their existing approach. IDs can ease this resistance by emphasizing collaboration, demonstrating respect for existing practices, and highlighting how proposed changes align with the teacher’s goals and classroom dynamics.
  • Technology Phobia. Not every teacher is comfortable with new tools, and that’s perfectly normal. IDs can bridge this gap by offering hands-on training sessions, creating detailed step-by-step guides, and selecting tools that are user-friendly and practical for classroom settings.

Final Thoughts

Collaboration between teachers and outsourced instructional designers has the potential to transform classrooms. By combining their unique strengths and embracing best practices, they can create learning experiences that are engaging, effective, and—dare we say it?—fun.

So, teachers, the next time an instructional designer walks into your school, don’t see them as an outsider. See them as a teammate, ready to help you tackle the curriculum with fresh ideas and a side of tech magic. And IDs, remember that teachers are the heart of education; listen to them, learn from them, and support them in their mission to inspire the next generation. Together, you’ve got this!


Related Blogs

Relieving Teachers’ Workloads and Improving Student Engagement: The Power of Outsourced Learning

The Anti-Trend: Why Instructional Design in 2025 is About Results, Not Razzle-Dazzle

The Roles of Instructional Design and L&D in Education and Corporate Settings


Resource

“Here’s how you can overcome resistance from hesitant teachers or staff towards educational technology.” LinkedIn. Accessed 12/19/24. https://www.linkedin.com/advice/1/heres-how-you-can-overcome-resistance-from-rdo9c?trk=public_post 

Marken, Stephanie and Sangeeta Agrawal. “K-12 Workers Have Highest Burnout Rate in U.S.” Gallup. 6/12/22. Accessed 12/19/24.  https://news.gallup.com/poll/393500/workers-highest-burnout-rate.aspx