How I Made a Difference
I am a self-taught instructional designer/e-learning developer who stumbled upon this amazing career by supporting a co-worker!
It all started when a co-worker was teaching an ILT engineering course. I took the course and saw her struggling as not only was she teaching she also had her manager role to keep abreast. I asked if she needed help. She asked if I could teach some of the courses (as I had my own manager role as well), I said yes I will.
The ILT then lead into creating e-learning to prep engineering prior to taking the courses, then it became additional technical and soft skill courses needing to be created to continue training needs. I overlapped my manager role with Instructional Design for about 10 months before moving into a full time Global Instructional Designer role.
It’s Not Just e-learning
Although creating engaging e-learning is a plus, sometimes there are other materials required to get the point across. These materials may include job aids, manuals, short videos, the list can go on and on. Many times these additional requirements may have a place in the e-learning itself, but it is important not to forget the additional needs. Another need to think about is closed captions and translations. I created translations with Spanish, Chinese, and Japanese using Google Translations and SMEs who speak these languages. Translations in some cases have been closed captions only or closed captions and audio. Audio provided by a native speaker using the script I provided. Due to ADA requirements closed captions are a must, I have inserted closed captions in VYOND, Camtasia, and YouTube.
Continuous Learner
I am a continuous learner, who is always looking for ways to create more engaging training, using new techniques, utilizing free webinars through Articulate, VYOND, Camtasia, and The Training Magazine. Oh, and don’t forget the occasional YouTube search for specific topics. In this role change is inevitable, instead of fighting it I embrace it and learn more!
Awards & Recognitions
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Earned an Instructional Design Certificate from ATD Education
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Earned my Toastmasters International Competent Leader Certificate
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Earned my Toastmasters International Competent Communicator Certificate
Begin with the END in Mind
It all begins with an idea or a need. Keeping the end in mind and knowing who your audience is will help you decide which path to take. I work diligently to provide e-learning which is engaging, interactive, and to the point to save the learner time and to ensure what they are learning is being comprehended and utilized in their daily activities. This includes technical training to soft skills training and compliance training.