The executive summary provides an overview of current trends in instructional design, focusing on the development of learning experiences informed by research to achieve specific educational goals.

 

Stefanie McDannald is an innovative instructional designer with a passion for creating efficient and effective educational experiences that assist learners in achieving their learning goals. Throughout her time in the Instructional Design and Technology program, she developed a variety of skills and expertise. This portfolio showcases each skill that current instructional designers need in an ever-changing field. 

 

Traditionally, instructional design adhered to behaviorist approaches, focusing on reinforcement to shape behavior. Over time the field has transformed to a constructivist method, prioritizing active learner engagement and the development of authentic, meaningful learning experiences. Current trends in instructional design focus around improving human performance, the integration of technology, asynchronous learning formats, artificial intelligence, and personalized learning.   

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One of Stefanie’s strengths is the incorporation of motivational strategies into instructional design models and learning objectives. Several projects included use different systematic approaches and principles, such as the ADDIE, Universal Design for Learning, ARCS, Kemp Design model, Gagne's, CIP, and Bloom's Taxonomy. Stefanie is proficient at using several authorizing tools and video editing software such as Articulate Rise, Final Cut Pro, Articulate Storyline, Camtasia, Vyond, and Canva. Another one of her strengths is developing digital content and media for instruction including fliers, presentations and graphics. 

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Stefanie’s critical areas of strength as an instructional designer also include creating actionable learning objectives, project organization, needs analysis, academic writing, and evaluating assessment.

 

This portfolio showcases different e-learning courses, instructional presentations, and learner-centered modules that have been developed for different purposes. Each project demonstrates meaningful design choices, tailored learning approaches based on the learner's needs, and technology integration. Specifically, the portfolio dives into projects that revolve around healthcare patient education, the customer service experience, and educator training.