Project Better Stories for Learning

Better STORIES for learning Teachers

summer 2023-25

Challenge: Within specialized trainings developed for adult professionals in education-based careers, learners needed more time and practice when it came to forming proper questions as used in key-concept protocols, namely “probing questions,” intended to stir deeper contemplation rather than to gather information or clarify. Because the virtual training had lesser meeting time than the traditional on-site training, some discussion and practice time had been eliminated, and elements used in the virtual setting — breakout rooms, assigned readings, and informative lecture-type videos — did not seem to address the topic in a way that held attention and offered enough time to build clarity. These trainings also needed social media promotion with spot-on branding and specifications.

STORIES AND Scripted SCENARIOS

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.

NSRF Mood Board re: Colors and Fonts for Branding

BONUS Design Elements!

I helped lead this nonprofit’s rapid shift from in-person to virtual profressional 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 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!