DCI Connect - Session 6: Instructor Auditioning at DataCamp

WebinarFebruary 2023

Summary

The webinar discussed the application process for potential instructors at DataCamp, providing a comprehensive view of what is expected from applicants and how they can successfully go through the application stages. Attendees were introduced to Yasin Prasides and Miranda Van Ameren, who stressed the need for applicants to be passionate, detail-oriented, and have excellent communication skills. The discussion included the various application types for different content areas such as analytics, data science, business intelligence, and machine learning, and explained the four to six-week application timeline. Major components of the application process, such as creating a course outline and a screencast, were discussed in detail, stressing the need for clear learning objectives and a logical teaching approach. The review process by the committee was explained, emphasizing the importance of creativity, adherence to guidelines, and effective communication. Additionally, the webinar addressed frequently asked questions about feedback, contract types, and the responsibilities of instructors.

Key Takeaways:

DataCamp is interested in instructors with passion, expertise, and the ability to fully engage in DataCamp’s content creation process.
The application process typically takes four to six weeks and involves multiple stages, including application, outline creation, screencast, and committee review.
Clear, measurable learning objectives and adherence to guidelines are essential in the outline creation stage.
The screencast is a crucial part of the application, showcasing the applicant's ability to present content effectively.
Excellent communication skills and openness to feedback are important qualities for potential instructors.

Deep Dives

Expectations from DataCamp Instructors

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mp is looking for instructors who are passionate about their subject and also willing to fully engage with DataCamp's unique content creation process. As Yasin Prasides, a content developer at DataCamp, mentioned, “We are looking for instructors who come to us passionate about the topic that they're looking to present.” The ideal candidate is an expert in their field who is receptive to feedback and able to work collaboratively with curriculum managers. Instructors are expected to be detail and deadline-focused, and also have excellent communication skills to facilitate effective collaboration and course development.

Application and Audition Process

The application process is designed to ensure that only the most qualified individuals are selected to become instructors at DataCamp. The process typically lasts between four to six weeks and includes several stages, starting with the application. Applicants are required to submit an outline followed by a screencast. “At best it's four weeks. At most in certain cases, it may last up to six weeks,” explained a speaker during the webinar. This timeline allows for thorough review and feedback, ensuring that each stage of the process is completed to a high standard.

Outline Creation and Criteria

Creating a course outline is a key part of the application process, as it allows the curriculum team to assess the applicant's approach to course content. The outline should include clear and measurable learning objectives that align with the course description provided by DataCamp. “Clear concepts and clear content as well that are presented in a logical order as you progress through the course material,” are essential, according to the guidelines shared in the webinar. The outline must also demonstrate consideration of teaching approaches and be suitable to the intended audience.

Screencast and Committee Review

The screencast is an opportunity for applicants to showcase their ability to present course content in a clear and engaging way. It involves creating a video presentation of a lesson from the course outline, allowing the review committee to evaluate the applicant's teaching style and content delivery. “It's our opportunity to see for the first time how you're able to bring the information from the paper to a visual presentation,” a speaker noted. The committee review involves multiple reviewers evaluating the screencast and other application materials to ensure that the applicant meets DataCamp’s standards for content quality and teaching effectiveness.