Even though projects usually move too quickly to apply true scientific rigor to the needs analysis process, this book on Cognitive Task Analysis has great tools for helping instructional designers deeply understand how experts make decisions and perform tasks in the workplace.

Tools I may bring into my workflow include: iterative concept mapping, eliciting specific narratives from experts and their team members, and using the Knowledge Audit domains to guide initial interviews with stakeholders.

What first brought me to the world of learning design is a belief in the power of evidence-based learning to change lives and a desire to close the gap in who is able to access high-quality education.

As a teacher trainer and course instructor, I fell in love with translating learning science research into instructional experiences, using learner data to iteratively improve learning experiences, and most of all, helping learners advance in their careers and academic programs.

Pivoting into instructional design has allowed me to maximize my impact, design for more learners than I could have imagined all across the globe, and collaborate with incredibly talented and intelligent teammates and stakeholders.

Outside of designing, I sing, weightlift, and lead a community of practice on personal knowledge management to enhance learning and creativity.