Creating engaging learning experiences by applying learning theories and instructional strategies allows Instructional Designers to effectively deliver content to learners. Designers must consider factors such as learning styles, technology integration, and interactive activities to enhance learner engagement. The projects below are assets created as part of either e-learning modules or hybrid modules that were utilized in classrooms and presentations to engage learners. I have listed them with the technology used to create each one.
PowerPoint | Canvas | Cidilabs | OBS – Module
MYP Year 4 Art-Unit 1: Digital Photography
Daughters of the American Revolution Interactive Display With Video
Map Animation – The Farm Never Moved!
Module for Teacher Classroom Management Best Practices
I recently created a module for teacher training regarding best practices for classroom management. The assignment included classroom expectations and classroom procedures. This video design aligns with the Cidilabs design features used in the module.
MYP Year 4 Art-Unit 1: Digital Photography
As students entered the classroom, they were immediately drawn in by the tantalizing sight of high-end SLR and DSLR cameras on the table. But what did they know? These weren’t just any cameras – they belonged to our very own Yearbook Club, and their price tag was a far cry from the budget-friendly tech most students are used to. Little did they know, this unit was strategically designed to coincide with the first three weeks of school, when grades were still fresh and phones were still by their side.
The surprise twist? These students didn’t need to spend a dime or lug around an extra camera bag – because the technology they already possessed in their pockets was more than enough. With smartphones equipped with cameras that rival those of professional photographers, my 9th graders discovered the magic of capturing stunning images without breaking the bank.
For the three students who didn’t have phones, I had a special plan in place. I provided them with 4th generation iPod Touches, complete with built-in cameras – and the results were just as impressive! The best part? The other students were completely unaware that they weren’t using iPhones!
This unit was more than just a lesson – it was an eye-opener for my students. It showed them that creativity and self-expression don’t have to come with a hefty price tag. With the power of smartphones at their fingertips, they were able to tap into their artistic side and produce photos that would make even seasoned photographers proud.
And the best part? The animation video I created using Canva was the perfect way to bring this concept to life, engaging my students from the very start and setting the tone for a unit that was truly unforgettable.
Daughters of the American Revolution Interactive Display With Video
The Daughters of the American Revolution – an esteemed group of women known for their sharp minds, keen historical insight, and high standards. To captivate this discerning audience requires creativity, precision, and a deep understanding of the subject matter. My task was to create a visually stunning and engaging video that would accompany an interactive history display at a seminar on Women in History.
I set out to tell the story of Iva Toguri “Tokyo Rose” D’Aguino – a remarkable woman whose bravery and conviction in the face of overwhelming adversity earned her a place alongside some of the most iconic figures in American history. I began by meticulously recreating the ensign of the Imperial Japanese Navy, using Adobe Photoshop to superimpose Iva’s care-free image over the symbol of the sun.
The result was nothing short of breathtaking. The contrast between Iva’s smiling gaze and the stylized representation of the sun rays created a powerful visual metaphor that would leave the audience in awe. But I didn’t stop there. Using iMovie, I crafted a cinematic narrative that wove together images, music, and text to bring Iva’s story to life.
The Ken Burns effect was employed with precision, creating a sense of movement and drama that underscored the significance of Iva’s actions. The result was a captivating video that would transport our audience back in time, immersing them in the world of 1940s Japan and introducing them to one of history’s most fascinating unsung heroines.
This project was more than just a visual presentation – it was an immersive experience designed to educate, inspire, and leave a lasting impact on the audience. By combining stunning visuals with a compelling narrative, I created a truly unforgettable tribute to Iva Toguri “Tokyo Rose” D’Aguino – a shining example of the power of courage and conviction in shaping history.
Utilizing Maps in Genealogy
Note: Use the left arrow to close the manual navigation tab and scroll down to start the embedded navigation with the blue button.
In the world of genealogy research, every detail counts – from the smallest hint about an ancestor’s residence to the most obscure reference in a historical document. But where do you start? This e-learning course, “Utilizing Maps in Genealogy,” is designed to guide the researcher through the basics of map types and show just how to harness their power to uncover the secrets of the family’s past.
As any seasoned genealogist will tell you, knowing when and where your ancestors lived is essential for tracking down primary and secondary source documents that can prove their existence. But with so many types of maps at our disposal – from historical atlases to online interactive tools – it can be overwhelming to know where to begin.
That’s why I created this asynchronous introduction course, designed specifically for those interested in utilizing maps in genealogy research. Using Adobe Captivate, I’ve crafted an engaging and informative experience that will take the researcher on a journey through the world of map-based research.
From familiarizing yourself with basic map types – including topographic, historical, and street maps – to learning how to use them to pinpoint ancestral locations, this course has everything covered. It doesn’t matter if you are a brand new genealogist or a seasoned pro who needs to refresh their skills – I’ve included quizzes and assessments to help gauge progress and identify areas where more practice is needed.
While this portfolio site may not be able to store progress and score reports (thanks to the limitations of SCORM and xAPI), you can still click through each slide, take the quiz, and even view a blank score report and certificate of completion. It’s a small step towards unlocking the secrets of utilizing maps in genealogical research – but it’s a great place to start!
Map Animation – The Farm Never Moved!
Imagine being able to watch the evolution of your ancestors’ world, as the landscape around them changed over time. That’s exactly what I did when I created this animation of the boundary changes of New Jersey from its colonial beginnings to present day.
But here’s the fascinating part: this animation was more than just a visual treat – it was a game-changer for my genealogical research. For years, I had been stuck on a particular farm, unable to find any documentation about its history. But with this animation, I was able to pinpoint exactly when and where the boundaries changed around that farm. Suddenly, the door swung open to new possibilities – and I discovered that I needed to look beyond New Jersey’s borders, to states like Virginia and West Virginia, for more clues.
This breakthrough was a turning point in my research, and it sparked an epiphany: maps are not just decorative tools, but powerful resources that can crack even the toughest genealogical puzzles. By using AniMap and OBS to create this animation, I was able to illustrate the critical role of spatial awareness in genealogical research.
As a seasoned genealogist, I’ve used this case study to teach others about the importance of maps in tracing their ancestors’ histories. My second lecture in a 4-part series, “Genealogy and Geography,” has been a hit with audiences across the DFW Metroplex – and now, it’s also available online as an asynchronous e-learning lesson.
So, if you’re facing your own brick wall, take heart! With the right tools and techniques, even the most elusive ancestors can become clear. Let this animation be your inspiration to unlock the secrets of your family’s past – and don’t forget to pack your map!