Better Stories for learning Teachers
summer 2023-25
Challenge:
Within a newly formed virtual professional development training for educators, it became evident, through learner feedback, that adult learners needed more practice when it came to forming question-types correctly within key-concept protocols which centered on group problem-solving and offering feedback in a way that upheld mutual respect and belonging. Because the training had lesser personal meeting time than the traditional on-site training, some personal practice and discussion time had been eliminated, and elements used in the virtual setting — breakout rooms, assigned readings, and lecture videos — did not address the process in a way that held attention to build greater understanding.
STORIES AND Scripted SCENARIOS
Solution:
To meet the challenge of supporting adult educators in this virtual setting, I developed a story-driven, interactive eLearning activity that allowed participants to practice applying concepts asynchronously—without the pressure of a live group.
After collaborating with training facilitators and subject matter experts, I scripted a branching scenario built around realistic educator “characters.” Each interaction invited learners to identify and apply different “question types” used in our professional learning protocols. Instead of grading answers as right or wrong, the activity offered gentle feedback and reflection prompts, encouraging exploration and deeper understanding.
Working within a small nonprofit’s budget, I learned the more affordable Genially platform to create the interactive module, using MindMeister for mapping and Adobe Photoshop for photo editing. The activity was published through our LearnWorlds LMS, enabling accessible, flexible engagement for educators in varied locations.
To promote the new training, I designed a cohesive visual identity and suite of marketing materials—including banners, social posts, and email graphics—that highlighted the key concepts of the training, namely Coach Certification. These assets helped position the training as both creative and practical, leading to stronger enrollment and positive feedback from both facilitators and participants.
NEW! In 2026, I was a key leader in developing the NSRF self-paced virtual course, Better Meetings: Structure for Success. This required end-to-end project management, from SME collaboration and course outlining to structure building, revising and editing, testing, even ongoing sales and promotion. More images to come!
NSRF Mood Board re: Colors and Fonts for Branding
BONUS: promotional elements and tools
I helped lead this nonprofit’s rapid shift from in-person to virtual professional training as it found itself with no other option when the pandemic took hold in 2020. Determined to preserve the deep, collaborative spirit that define the NSRF trainings and working within tight budgets and timelines, I researched and implemented an easy-to-use, affordable learning management system that paired seamlessly with Zoom to support interactive features like breakout rooms. I also developed clear, accessible “how-to” materials and guides to train facilitators on building and managing their own virtual courses. Check out some of the tools and materials I created in this process!
