In the latest episode of the Training Portal Podcast, we dive into the evolving world of Instructional Design and e-learning in South Africa with the dynamic and passionate Liebe Tredoux. A seasoned educator turned freelance instructional designer, Liebe brings a wealth of experience from institutions like UCT, Stellenbosch University, and Acorn Education. Her story is not just inspiring—it’s a testament to how innovation, flexibility, and a human-centered approach can reshape the learning landscape.
🎧 Listen to the full episode (You can also tune in on Spotify)
From the classroom to course creation
Liebe's journey into Instructional Design began in the classroom but soon expanded into a broader mission—creating learning experiences that truly engage learners. While volunteering at the Open Book Festival, her encounter with the Wikimedia Foundation's coding initiative challenged her assumptions and opened new doors. "I always thought I wasn’t logical enough for tech," she reflects, "but once I started problem-solving and seeing instant results, I realised how exciting and empowering it could be."
Her path led her from teaching to learning design, first with Valencia and then across multiple respected institutions, including Stellenbosch University and MasterStart. Through freelance work, Liebe found the balance she craved—both professionally and personally.
Instructional design with heart and purpose
Throughout the conversation, Liebe emphasises how her background in industrial psychology and marketing management shaped her instructional design philosophy. “At the end of the day,” she shares, “it’s still about people. Whether they’re 13 or 40, you need to understand what motivates them and then design learning that resonates.”
Liebe also shares her thoughts on how instructional designers can create engaging and meaningful content—especially in environments where access, infrastructure, or even basic needs may be limited. Her experience designing hybrid models for schools like Apex High through Acorn Education provided critical insight into the challenges and opportunities of online learning in underserved communities.
Technology, sustainability, & the South African context
While many are eager to embrace AI and immersive tech, Liebe offers a grounded perspective: "We need to remember that not everyone has access to VR headsets or high-speed internet." Instead, she advocates for more realistic and sustainable solutions—such as using offline Wikimedia content tools—to bridge the digital divide. Her approach is both tech-savvy and socially conscious, a rare but necessary balance.
Liebe also addresses the environmental impact of new technologies. With a postgraduate diploma in Sustainable Development, she’s acutely aware of the resource demands AI can place on the planet. “We have to design for sustainability,” she says, “not just in content, but in delivery too.”
Advice for aspiring Instructional Designers
Liebe offers a wealth of advice to those considering a shift into instructional design—especially teachers. She encourages aspiring designers to explore resources like Devlin Peck, Tim Slade, and the Instructional Design Collective on LinkedIn, as well as to reach out to others in the field. “It can be daunting, but the community is full of incredible, generous people who are willing to help.”
She also highlights the need to listen to learners more intentionally, gathering feedback not just through surveys but real conversations and active engagement. "When we listen to what learners need, especially those with disabilities or limited resources, we can create learning that truly matters"
Looking ahead: The future of Learning Design
As we wrapped up the conversation, Liebe shared her thoughts on where the field is heading. As online education continues to evolve, she sees a shift toward more learner-driven experiences. Microlearning, adaptive learning, and a renewed focus on accessibility will define the future of instructional design. However, one thing remains unchanged—the need for human connection in education. "When we listen to what learners need, especially those with disabilities or limited resources, we can create learning that truly matters"
“There’s no replacement for empathy,” she says. “And no AI can replicate the relationship between a great teacher and a learner.”
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