My Journey in Instructional Design and Technology

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Introduction

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My journey into instructional design and technology has been shaped by a deep commitment to improving how people learn through purposeful innovation. With a Doctor of Business Administration, I am currently pursuing a Master of Science in Instructional Technology at the University of Tennessee and finishing a PhD in Technology and Innovation Management.

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Academic Foundations and Early Influences

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These academic paths reflect both my passion for learning and research and my desire to lead transformative changes in educational environments. From an early age, I was drawn to creative settings where knowledge was shared—whether through storytelling, visual media, or interactive tools. Over time, this interest evolved into a professional calling: to design learning experiences that are engaging, accessible, and impactful.

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Discovering Instructional Design

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My connection to instructional design began during my academic studies, where I was exposed to the intersection of business, education, and technology. I became fascinated by how digital tools could transform traditional learning environments and empower learners of all backgrounds. This interest led me to pursue opportunities to apply these concepts in real-world settings, such as developing training modules, supporting curriculum design, and collaborating on e-learning projects.

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Professional Experience in Higher Education

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Over the past sixteen years, I have worked extensively in higher education, integrating courses into learning management systems including Moodle, Blackboard, and Canvas. This experience has provided a strong foundation in instructional systems design, digital pedagogy, and user-centered learning environments. My collaborations with faculty, instructional teams, and IT departments have ensured that course content is both technically sound and pedagogically practical. These projects have reinforced the importance of accessibility, clarity, and engagement in digital learning spaces.

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Formative Project Experience

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One formative experience that solidified my career direction was working on a project to redesign onboarding materials for a diverse workforce. I had the opportunity to analyze learner needs, apply instructional design models, and integrate multimedia elements to enhance engagement. Witnessing the positive impact—improved comprehension, retention, and confidence among new employees—was a turning point. This experience demonstrated the power of thoughtful design and the importance of empathy in creating effective learning solutions.

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Values and Professional Strengths

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Throughout my journey, I have cultivated a set of values and strengths that define me as a professional. I value clarity, inclusivity, and continuous improvement, and approach challenges with a problem-solving mindset and a collaborative spirit. My strengths include analytical thinking, visual communication, and the ability to translate complex ideas into digestible formats. A sense of purpose drives me: learning should be empowering, and technology should serve as a bridge—not a barrier—to understanding.

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Aspirations and Commitment to Innovation

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These qualities have guided my work and shaped my aspirations. I see instructional design as a dynamic field that requires both creativity and strategy. The possibilities of emerging technologies—such as adaptive learning systems, gamification, and AI-driven personalization—excite me, and I am committed to staying at the forefront of these innovations. At the same time, I remain grounded in the human side of learning, focusing on understanding learners' motivations and contexts.

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Professional Growth and Future Goals

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As I continue to grow professionally, I am eager to contribute to projects that make a difference. I am pursuing further education and certifications to deepen my expertise, and I actively engage with professional communities to exchange ideas and stay inspired. My portfolio reflects not just what I have done, but who I am: a designer, a thinker, and a lifelong learner.