Effective communication in the field of learning design is vital to ensure learning experiences are created in a collaborative manner that meets the needs of learners and stakeholders. As a student of learning design, I seek to gain professional communication skills by reflecting on my strengths and working on the areas where I can improve. In an effort to grow into an effective learning designer, I have outlined my strengths and needs regarding communication and developed a growth plan to develop the visual storytelling skills needed to create effective learning experiences. I have also reflected on how my current communication practices influence my identity as a future learning designer. Communication Strength Active listening is a strength in communication that I possess. As a special education teacher, I have developed listening skills that allow me to truly collaborate with students, families, and IEP team members. Being an acti...
From Special Educator to Learning Designer: Establishing a Brand of Inclusivity, Accessibility, and Opportunity
Working in education has been my career and passion for the last two decades. I have taught all grades in the K-12 setting as a special education teacher. Additionally, I have also worked as an Education Program Coordinator at the Achievement & Assessment Institute at the University of Kansas. In that role I helped to develop online state assessments for Kansas and Alaska, while managing a group of graduate research assistants. I am currently enrolled in the Learning Design and Technology (Graduate Certificate) Program at Arizona State University. Becoming a learning designer has been a natural progression for me. Throughout my career I have remained steadfast in my commitment to ensuring learning is accessible, inclusive, engaging, and ultimately meaningful for every student. I believe profoundly in the life-changing power of learning. Every human has a fundamental drive to grow through the attainment of understanding and application. ...