Instructional Design Document

OVERVIEW

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Resumes Reimagined: Mastering Modern Job Applications, is an online course designed to equip you with cutting-edge skills and knowledge for crafting effective resumes in today's job market. This course consists of three modules, each focused on a distinct aspect of modern resume creation and job application strategies.  By the end of this course, you will be proficient in leveraging AI tools effectively during your job search process.

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In Module One, we delve into the history and evolution of resumes, exploring how they vary across industries and geographies. We'll cover essential resume sections and formatting basics and share best practices for resume distribution. You'll learn to create a base resume and then strategies for tailoring it for a variety of different roles. 

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Module Two introduces you to Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), explaining their significance and how employers use them. You'll gain insights into crafting ATS-compliant resumes, ensuring your applications stand out rather than getting lost in digital limbo. 

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Finally, Module Three explores the burgeoning role of AI in job searching, from providing job search and resume advice to aiding in company research and interview preparation. We'll examine various AI applications in job searching and how they can be leveraged to enhance your job application process.

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We're glad you're joining us on this journey to transform your resume into a powerful tool that will open doors to your desired career path. Whether you're a seasoned professional or entering the job market for the first time, this course is your guide to mastering modern job applications.

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KNOWLEDGE GAP

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Artificial intelligence (AI) can offer impressive time-saving solutions for resume creation, but a significant learning gap persists. While an increasing percentage of the population has become aware of popular AI tools such as ChatGPT, incorporating the appropriate amount of AI support in a career journey requires some finesse.  

 

• Understanding AI Algorithms and their impact on resume screening: Many job seekers are unaware that most resumes pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) before reaching a hiring manager. The systems parse keywords and rank resumes based on keywords, formatting, and other criteria. Not understanding how to create an ATS-optimized resume can potentially lead to applications being overlooked despite having relevant qualifications.

• Balancing AI optimization with personalization and authenticity: There is a risk of over-relying on AI tools, which can result in a generic or impersonal resume. Job seekers need to learn how to use AI tools to enhance their resumes without losing the career aspects that make them unique. 

• Staying updated with evolving AI tools: As AI tools and algorithms continually evolve, so do the strategies for creating effective resumes. Continuous education and adaptability are needed to effectively leverage AI in resume writing in the context of a dynamic job market.

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TARGET AUDIENCE AND LEARNER PROFILE

Demographics

Age and socioeconomic background are less relevant than the need to apply for a job requiring a resume submission. One proposed persona is a college student nearing graduation who is beginning to look for employment in their chosen field (see below).

 

They are busy with classes, possibly a part-time or full-time job, and are pressed for time with academic, professional, and family commitments. They are familiar with online classes from high school and secondary education experience, are experienced with social media, and keep up with technology trends. 

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Expertise

A competent practitioner who has a sufficient understanding of a topic for everyday purposes. They will not know all the details, and their understanding may not be entirely accurate, but it is sufficient for completing normal tasks with normal effort under normal circumstances. They most likely have previous experience writing a resume (or similar document) for college admission, internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work. They understand the resume's purpose and would probably seek additional information online if they had specific questions. 

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Motivation

For the purpose of this course, the motivation would be to create a professional resume that allows them to confidently apply for any job of interest. With a general understanding of AI and a busy life, they would be interested in learning how to use these tools to streamline the tedium of creating and customizing job search materials. 

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Prerequisite Knowledge/Technology Proficiency

Learners would need a solid understanding of the importance of the resume and a general understanding of the job application process. They would also need a basic understanding of computers and word processing software of some type (Google Docs and Microsoft Word are most common). A basic awareness of common AI technology (Bard, ChatGPT) would be helpful but not necessary to complete the course successfully. 

 

SAMPLE LEARNER PROFILE 

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COURSE TYPE​

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A "How-To" format aligns well with this course topic and audience.

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• Focus on Practical Skills - Given that the course is about writing resumes, a task-oriented skill, the "How-To" format is ideal. This type of course is specifically designed to teach practical skills or tasks, which aligns well to enable learners to create effective resumes using AI tools.

• Meeting Learner Outcomes - The specific outcome for this class is for learners to acquire the ability to craft resumes. A "How-To" course provides direct, step-by-step instructions, making it easier for learners to achieve these specific outcomes. It's a format that translates learning into immediate action, offering clear guidance on the actual process of resume writing.

• Audience Analysis Alignment - The target audience will be students looking for advanced insights in resume writing. A "How-To" course will allow them to focus on incorporating advanced features and innovative techniques offered by AI.

• Engagement through Application - A "How-To" course involves interactive elements such as exercises, templates, and demonstrations, making learning engaging and practical. This interactivity will be particularly effective in skills-based learning, allowing learners to apply concepts in real time and enhancing retention and understanding.

• Structured Learning Path - Writing resumes, especially with AI, involves steps from understanding job requirements to tailoring content accordingly. A "How-To" course naturally lends itself to a sequential format, guiding learners through each stage of resume writing, ensuring they grasp each part of the process before moving to the next.

• Immediate Applicability - The nature of a "How-To" course means that learners can immediately apply what they've learned. This immediate applicability is crucial in skill-based learning like resume writing, as it not only reinforces the learning but also provides learners with a tangible outcome — in this case, a well-crafted resume.

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COURSE MODALITY

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An asynchronous online modality aligns well with course parameters for the following reasons: 

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• Learner Preferences - Asynchronous learning caters to a wide range of learner preferences, especially for those who favor self-paced learning. This modality allows individuals to engage with the course material on their own schedule, which is particularly beneficial for learners who may be balancing work, education, or other commitments. Given the nature of the audience, this flexibility ensures that the course is accessible and convenient for all.

• Resource Optimization - Asynchronous learning is a practical choice because available resources are more suited to developing online content (like recorded videos, interactive modules, etc.) rather than organizing live sessions or maintaining physical classroom spaces. It allows the instructional designer to create and curate high-quality content that can be reused and accessed by multiple cohorts of learners without the need for real-time resource allocation.

• Interaction Levels - Asynchronous courses offer more independent learning experiences but can still include interactions. Forums, discussion boards, and email exchanges can provide effective interaction on a flexible schedule. This level of interaction will be suitable for a topic like resume writing using AI, where learners might need time to digest information and practice skills at their own pace.

• Accessibility Considerations - Asynchronous courses are often more accessible to diverse learners, including those with disabilities. It can incorporate accessibility features like closed captions, screen reader-friendly content, and adjustable playback speeds. This inclusivity is a significant advantage, ensuring all learners have equal opportunities to engage with and benefit from the course.

• Technical Requirements - Asynchronous learning typically requires basic technical tools that most learners are likely to have, such as a computer and internet access. This minimizes barriers to entry compared to synchronous online or hybrid modalities that might require more robust internet connectivity or specific timings.

• Skill-Based Learning Advantages - For a skill-based course like AI resume writing, asynchronous learning allows learners to pause, reflect, and apply learning at their own pace, which can be crucial for effectively acquiring and practicing new skills. They can revisit complex sections, practice using AI tools, and draft resumes without the pressure of keeping up with a live class.

 

 

COURSE LEARNING OUTCOMES

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COURSE LEARNING OUTCOME #1:

Students will be able to create an ATS-compliant resume that effectively demonstrates their skills and qualifications for a specified job opening, resulting in a higher likelihood of being selected for an interview.

• Measurable elements:

  • ATS-compliant formatting and design

  • Inclusion of targeted keywords aligned with the job description

  • Quantification of accomplishments

 

COURSE LEARNING OUTCOMES  #2:

Students will be able to utilize AI-powered tools to enhance their job search, including crafting resumes, preparing for interviews, and identifying suitable job opportunities.

• Measurable elements:

  • Effective use of AI tools for resume analysis and customization

  • Demonstration of AI-assisted job search strategies

  • Application of AI-generated insights for interview preparation 

 

MODULE OUTLINE 

Module 2: Understanding Applicant Tracking Systems

 

COURSE OUTCOME

Course Learning Outcome #1
Students can create an ATS-compliant resume that effectively demonstrates their skills and qualifications for a specified job opening, resulting in a higher likelihood of being selected for an interview.
 

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MODULE OBJECTIVES (aligned to the CLO above)

Learning Objective #1

Students will be able to describe how ATS software filters and ranks resumes, and articulate strategies to optimize their resume for ATS success.

 

Learning Objective #2

Students will be able to analyze a job description, extract relevant keywords, and strategically incorporate them into their resume to improve its ATS compatibility.

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LEARNING ACTIVITIES

 

Activity 1 - Understanding ATS (Lecture)

The lecture uses visual aids to explain how ATS systems work, including a brief history, it’s impact on modern recruitment, and features and benefits of the most common systems. 

This activity ties to Course Outcome #1/Objective #1. ​

 

Activity 2 - Case Study Review

Students review a case study showing the ATS systems from different perspectives (job seeker and employer). Materials include a fictional job posting, review of the hiring funnel, and a graphic representation of the back-end view of the employer’s dashboard. This activity ties to Course Outcome #1/Objective #1 & #2. ​

 

Activity 3 - Compliant vs. Non-Compliant Resumes (Lecture)

Review of the key features that make a resume ATS compliant and a visual of the corresponding elements. This activity ties to Course Outcome #1/Objective #1 & #2. ​

 

Activity 4 - Assignment: The ATS Optimization Challenge. Students will complete a 5-step assignment involving chosing a job posting, customizing their resume, and then testing their revised resume with an online ATS checker. 

This activity ties to Course Outcome #1/Objective #1 & #2. ​

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ASSESSMENT STRATEGIES

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Formative Assessments

Quiz on ATS Functionality (Tied to Activity 1-4): After the lecture on applicant tracking systems, a short quiz can be conducted to assess students' understanding of how ATS systems work. This includes multiple-choice questions and true/false statement about ATS algorithms and parsing techniques.

Purpose: To ensure students grasp the basic concepts of ATS functionality.

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Participation in Discussions (Tied to Activity 1-4): Assessment of students' engagement and contribution to the class discussion forum.

Purpose: To foster collaborative learning and the ability to give and receive constructive feedback.

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 Summative Assessment

ATS-Optimized Resume Submission

• As a module 2 assignment, students submit their own resume, optimized based on the learnings from the course. This resume will be assessed for its ATS compatibility, including using keywords, appropriate formatting, and structure.

• Criteria: Resumes should aim for a minimum 90% match with common ATS requirements.

• Purpose: To assess the ability to practically apply the knowledge gained to optimize a real resume for ATS.

 

SUBJECT MATTER EXPERT RESOURCES

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1.  HR and Recruitment Software Developers: Companies that develop Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), such as Bullhorn or Greenhouse, can provide valuable information on how resumes are parsed and analyzed by AI in recruitment processes.

2. AI Technology Platforms: Explore platforms that specialize in AI-driven resume building, like Resume.io, Zety, or Enhancv. These platforms often have blogs, whitepapers, and tutorials explaining their technology and approach.

3. Industry Blogs and Podcasts: Follow blogs and podcasts led by AI experts or career coaches. Sites like Medium, Harvard Business Review, or podcasts like “The AI in Business Podcast” can be useful.

4. Online Forums and Communities: Platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, or specialized forums in AI and career development can offer diverse perspectives and current trends.

 

INSTRUCTIONAL DESIGN MODEL​

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For this minicourse on how to use AI, particularly ChatGPT, to write resumes, the Understanding by Design (UbD) framework appears to be the most suitable instructional design model.  

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1. Clear Learning Objectives: The course will have well-defined objectives such as understanding AI in recruitment, crafting AI-optimized resumes, understanding AI's role in the broader job search, and using ChatGPT responsibly in resume crafting. UbD would start with these end goals or desired results and work backward to develop the curriculum, ensuring that all course activities align directly with these objectives.

2. Learner-Centered Approach: UbD emphasizes understanding and applying knowledge rather than just memorizing facts. This fits the course, as it involves complex concepts like AI in recruitment and ethical considerations in using AI tools like ChatGPT. UbD's focus on conceptual understanding will help students grasp not just how to use these tools but also why they are used and the implications of their use.

3. Structured Yet Flexible Framework: UbD allows for a structured approach to each module while also accommodating various types of learning activities like quizzes, interactive tools, templates, checklists, and practical exercises. This flexibility is beneficial for the course, which incorporates a variety of teaching methods and materials.

4. Performance-Based Assessment: The final assessment in the course will include a practical exercise where students submit resumes and receive AI-based feedback. UbD is known for its emphasis on performance tasks as a key assessment form. This model will help design these tasks to effectively measure students' ability to apply what they have learned in real-world scenarios.

5. Iterative Design for Continuous Improvement: The UbD framework involves revisiting and refining the curriculum based on feedback, which aligns with the plan to encourage student feedback and reflection. This iterative process ensures the course remains relevant and effective.

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In summary, Understanding by Design is suitable for the minicourse due to its focus on clear learning objectives, learner-centered approach, ability to incorporate various learning activities and assessments, and emphasis on understanding and applying knowledge in practical, real-world contexts.

 

LEARNING THEORY: ANDRAGOGY

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Andragogy, the theory of adult learning developed by Malcolm Knowles, emphasizes the unique ways in which adults prefer to learn. Applying andragogy to the design of The Art and Science of Resume Writing with AI is particularly effective because college students, especially those nearing graduation, are adult learners with specific learning needs and preferences. Here's how andragogy will effectively drive the design of the learning activities in this course:

 

1. Self-Directed Learning

Andragogical Principle: Adults are self-directed and prefer to take control of their learning journey.

Application in this Course Design: This asynchronous online course will offer flexibility in how and when students engage with the material, such as choosing when to complete assignments or electing to delve deeper into specific AI tools. This approach empowers students to tailor their learning experience to their individual needs and interests.

 

2. Draw on Experiences

Andragogical Principle: Adult learners bring a rich reservoir of experiences that form a critical resource for learning.

Application in Course Design: Activities will encourage students to share and reflect on their own experiences with resume writing and job applications. This could include discussions on challenges they have faced and solutions they've tried, allowing them to learn from each other’s experiences and their own.

 

3. Relevance-Oriented Learning

Andragogical Principle: Adults are motivated to learn to the extent that they perceive it will help them perform tasks or deal with problems.

Application in Course Design: The course will be structured around practical, real-world tasks. For example, students will work on optimizing their actual resumes using AI tools, ensuring that the learning is directly relevant and applicable to their job search efforts.

 

4. Problem-Centered Approach

Andragogical Principle: Adult learning is problem-centered rather than content-centered.

Application in Course Design: Instead of just presenting theoretical concepts, the course will focus on solving real problems, such as how to get past an ATS system or how to highlight specific skills effectively using AI-enhanced tools. This practical approach helps in better retention and application of the knowledge.

 

5. Readiness to Learn

Andragogical Principle: Adults are ready to learn things they feel they need to know.

Application in Course Design: By aligning the course content with the immediate needs of the students (such as preparing for the job market), the course ensures that learners are engaged and find the material relevant.

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DIGITAL MEDIA

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