Instructional Designer
Design is an intentional plan for a functional purpose. As an instructional designer, my plans for projects are grounded in theory and research. The objectives for every project are different, and depending on the situation, I am allowed more artistic freedom than in others.
Though I typically lean on frameworks like ADDIE or Backward Design, there are many more decisions made throughout the design process that dip into research from the fields of psychology, art, and learning. And that's what makes this work fulfilling to me-designing not just for function, but with the intention of reaching the whole learner.
Practice-Based Instructional Design
A Graduate Course in Theory, OER Co-Creation, and Transparent AI Use
I designed and taught a fully online graduate course in which students co-created an openly licensed learning theories textbook using backward design, open pedagogy, and transparent AI integration.
Through structured modules on learning theory, OER, accessibility, instructional design, and AI-supported creation, students authored original chapters, practiced peer review, and published a collaborative OER - Design in Progress [New Tab]- as part of the course.
​
At the OpenEd 2025 Conference, I presented on the design of the course, explaining the use of the CRAFT strategy for AI use, and more.
Technologies and Tools I Use
Canvas Essentials for Students
This redesign took an course full of informational guides about the Canvas LMS, and turned it into a self-paced, engaging, instructional course for students.
The redesign included
writing clear objectives, creating videos and content, creating interactive graphics, adding gamification,
making content accessible, adding activities and assessments,
and embedding feedback.
​
designing Together
Cross-campus collaboration for first year success
My colleague, Patty Hoeck, and I led the design of a collaborative 7-week PD program that united typically siloed groups (FYE programs, first-year faculty, eLearning, the library, and the campus makerspace) to solve shared challenges in student belonging and course design.
Together, we improved FYE orientation, strengthened faculty skills in project-based learning and instructional design, and built lasting cross-campus relationships.