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Featured Projects
Rise: Accountability in Action course
🔆 PROBLEM
Many managers want to hold people accountable, but they worry about sounding harsh or slipping into micromanagement. That often leads to vague expectations, avoided feedback conversations, and missed opportunities to learn from mistakes.
🔆 SOLUTION
To address this, I designed a 30-minute Rise course. In it, I walk managers through clear, practical frameworks using simple language and ready‑to‑use phrases they can apply in real conversations. I built interactive elements and created a downloadable job aid to extend learning beyond the course and into everyday leadership moments.
🔆 RESULT
Managers get a focused, self‑paced learning experience they can complete in under 30 minutes while still gaining practical, on‑the‑job skills. They leave with clear mental models, concrete phrases they can use in real conversations, an accountability checklist they can rely on as a job aid, and ongoing resources for continued learning (podcasts), all of which support more confident, consistent accountability behaviors in their day‑to‑day leadership.
🔆 DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT
Design
📍Aligned with adult learning principles (relevance, application, reflection) using real manager language
📍Interactive blocks: process, accordion, flashcards, matching, text entry (Storyline block)
📍"Pause & Reflect" prompts
📍Meaningful feedback for knowledge checks phrased in positive, developmental language.
Development
📍Complete course package: title, description, duration, WIIFM, Bloom’s-aligned objectives
📍Video hook, active voice, conversational writing, logical chunking
📍Learner-centered assessments mapped to objectives (formative & summative)
📍Motivational closure with a call to action
Accessibility
📍Left-aligned text, no italics, descriptive hyperlinks
📍Subtitles/transcript-ready video, no time limits on assessments
📍Explicit interaction instructions
Visual Design/UX
📍Balance, alignment, proximity, emphasis (bold & icons)
📍High-res, consistent, relevant images
📍Intuitive navigation, clear interaction directions
Many managers want to hold people accountable, but they worry about sounding harsh or slipping into micromanagement. That often leads to vague expectations, avoided feedback conversations, and missed opportunities to learn from mistakes.
🔆 SOLUTION
To address this, I designed a 30-minute Rise course. In it, I walk managers through clear, practical frameworks using simple language and ready‑to‑use phrases they can apply in real conversations. I built interactive elements and created a downloadable job aid to extend learning beyond the course and into everyday leadership moments.
🔆 RESULT
Managers get a focused, self‑paced learning experience they can complete in under 30 minutes while still gaining practical, on‑the‑job skills. They leave with clear mental models, concrete phrases they can use in real conversations, an accountability checklist they can rely on as a job aid, and ongoing resources for continued learning (podcasts), all of which support more confident, consistent accountability behaviors in their day‑to‑day leadership.
🔆 DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT
Design
📍Aligned with adult learning principles (relevance, application, reflection) using real manager language
📍Interactive blocks: process, accordion, flashcards, matching, text entry (Storyline block)
📍"Pause & Reflect" prompts
📍Meaningful feedback for knowledge checks phrased in positive, developmental language.
Development
📍Complete course package: title, description, duration, WIIFM, Bloom’s-aligned objectives
📍Video hook, active voice, conversational writing, logical chunking
📍Learner-centered assessments mapped to objectives (formative & summative)
📍Motivational closure with a call to action
Accessibility
📍Left-aligned text, no italics, descriptive hyperlinks
📍Subtitles/transcript-ready video, no time limits on assessments
📍Explicit interaction instructions
Visual Design/UX
📍Balance, alignment, proximity, emphasis (bold & icons)
📍High-res, consistent, relevant images
📍Intuitive navigation, clear interaction directions
Storyline: System simulation
🔅 PROBLEM
The State Department of Children and Families (DCF) was rolling out a new system to manage case documentation and workflows. Staff needed to learn the system quickly to maintain compliance and ensure accurate case handling.
🔅 SOLUTION
I designed and developed an interactive system simulation in Articulate Storyline that allowed staff to practice using the new system in a risk-free environment. The simulation mirrored real system functionality, included guided practice steps, and incorporated scenario-based exercises to build confidence. Users received immediate feedback on actions, reinforcing correct processes and preventing mistakes.
🔅 RESULT
The simulation enabled DCF staff to gain practical experience before using the system live, significantly reducing the learning curve. The interactive format was well-received and increased learner engagement compared to traditional classroom training.
The State Department of Children and Families (DCF) was rolling out a new system to manage case documentation and workflows. Staff needed to learn the system quickly to maintain compliance and ensure accurate case handling.
🔅 SOLUTION
I designed and developed an interactive system simulation in Articulate Storyline that allowed staff to practice using the new system in a risk-free environment. The simulation mirrored real system functionality, included guided practice steps, and incorporated scenario-based exercises to build confidence. Users received immediate feedback on actions, reinforcing correct processes and preventing mistakes.
🔅 RESULT
The simulation enabled DCF staff to gain practical experience before using the system live, significantly reducing the learning curve. The interactive format was well-received and increased learner engagement compared to traditional classroom training.
Keynote: eLearning course
🔆 PROBLEM
The Department of Educational Technology at Central Connecticut State University faced a dual challenge with one of its core courses.
Originally delivered in an instructor-led format, the course relied heavily on the expertise of a single faculty member who was retiring. Without a replacement instructor, the course risked being discontinued.
Additionally, the course content was outdated, overly text-heavy, and lacked engagement, leading to low completion rates and poor learner outcomes. Students often struggled to stay motivated and to see the real-world relevance of the material.
🔆 SOLUTION
To address these issues, I redesigned the course as a fully online, self-paced eCourse to ensure sustainability and improve learner engagement.
Key elements of the solution included:
📍Transition to Online Delivery: I restructured the course into 8 interactive modules, eliminating the dependency on a live instructor while maintaining high-quality instruction.
📍Learner-Centered Design: Each module was divided into manageable chunks, with a consistent structure including motivational videos, interactive exercises, and project-based assignments.
📍Enhanced Multimedia and Interactivity: Videos, visuals, and interactive elements transformed the content into an engaging, active learning experience.
📍Flexible Navigation and Review Options: While the course required sequential progression to ensure mastery, learners could revisit earlier content as needed, accommodating various learning styles.
📍Comprehensive Student Resources: A student handbook with tutorials, guides, exercises, and grading rubrics ensured learners had the tools needed to succeed independently.
🔆 RESULTS
The redesigned course addressed both institutional and learner challenges, yielding significant outcomes:
📍Sustainability Achieved: Transitioning to an online, self-paced format eliminated reliance on a retiring instructor, ensuring the course could continue without interruption.
📍Higher Engagement: Feedback surveys showed a 40% increase in student satisfaction, with learners particularly appreciating the multimedia content and real-world applications.
📍Better Learning Outcomes: Post-course assessments indicated a 25% improvement in learner performance, with many students successfully applying new knowledge in their professional settings.
This redesign provided a long-term, scalable solution that addressed the university's staffing challenges while significantly enhancing the quality and effectiveness of the course.
Tools: InDesign, Photoshop, Premiere Pro, GarageBand, Keynote, Screencast-o-Matic, Flipgrid, Voicethread.
The Department of Educational Technology at Central Connecticut State University faced a dual challenge with one of its core courses.
Originally delivered in an instructor-led format, the course relied heavily on the expertise of a single faculty member who was retiring. Without a replacement instructor, the course risked being discontinued.
Additionally, the course content was outdated, overly text-heavy, and lacked engagement, leading to low completion rates and poor learner outcomes. Students often struggled to stay motivated and to see the real-world relevance of the material.
🔆 SOLUTION
To address these issues, I redesigned the course as a fully online, self-paced eCourse to ensure sustainability and improve learner engagement.
Key elements of the solution included:
📍Transition to Online Delivery: I restructured the course into 8 interactive modules, eliminating the dependency on a live instructor while maintaining high-quality instruction.
📍Learner-Centered Design: Each module was divided into manageable chunks, with a consistent structure including motivational videos, interactive exercises, and project-based assignments.
📍Enhanced Multimedia and Interactivity: Videos, visuals, and interactive elements transformed the content into an engaging, active learning experience.
📍Flexible Navigation and Review Options: While the course required sequential progression to ensure mastery, learners could revisit earlier content as needed, accommodating various learning styles.
📍Comprehensive Student Resources: A student handbook with tutorials, guides, exercises, and grading rubrics ensured learners had the tools needed to succeed independently.
🔆 RESULTS
The redesigned course addressed both institutional and learner challenges, yielding significant outcomes:
📍Sustainability Achieved: Transitioning to an online, self-paced format eliminated reliance on a retiring instructor, ensuring the course could continue without interruption.
📍Higher Engagement: Feedback surveys showed a 40% increase in student satisfaction, with learners particularly appreciating the multimedia content and real-world applications.
📍Better Learning Outcomes: Post-course assessments indicated a 25% improvement in learner performance, with many students successfully applying new knowledge in their professional settings.
This redesign provided a long-term, scalable solution that addressed the university's staffing challenges while significantly enhancing the quality and effectiveness of the course.
Tools: InDesign, Photoshop, Premiere Pro, GarageBand, Keynote, Screencast-o-Matic, Flipgrid, Voicethread.
InDesign: Storybaord Flowchart
This flowchart represents the structured design framework for an 8-module eCourse I developed for the Department of Educational Technology at Central Connecticut State University.
The course was designed with a learner-centered approach, emphasizing clarity, consistency, and engagement to support diverse learning styles.
🔆 INSTRUCTIONAL DESIGN HIGHLIGHTS
📍Structure for Manageable Learning: Each module is strategically divided into smaller chunks to promote cognitive load management and ensure learning is digestible and focused.
📍Consistent Module Design: All modules follow a structured and predictable format to enhance navigation and reduce learner frustration. Each module includes:
- A lesson plan for clear learning objectives.
- A motivational video featuring teacher testimonials to build relevance and inspire learners.
- Core learning content with interactive exercises to reinforce understanding.
- A closure/summary for reflection, a list of project-based assignments, and a preview of the next module.
- A password-protected access system to maintain a sequential learning flow.
📍Learner Autonomy and Flexibility: The course adopts a linear progression, requiring learners to master each module sequentially. However, learners retain control over their learning experience with opportunities to review past content and select resources tailored to their preferred learning styles.
🔆 SUPPORTING MATERIALS AND TOOLS
📍To streamline the course development, I utilized:
- A flowchart for mapping the course structure.
- A detailed storyboard to visualize content delivery.
- A Gantt chart for project timeline management.
- A media strategies chart to align instructional materials with learning objectives.
🔆 FINAL DELIVERABLES
The project culminated in two key outputs:
📍The eCourse: An interactive, fully online learning experience.
📍A comprehensive student handbook: Included tutorials, guides, exercises, and grading rubrics to support learner success and autonomy.
This flowchart showcases a meticulous design process, emphasizing alignment between instructional strategies, learner needs, and project goals.
The course was designed with a learner-centered approach, emphasizing clarity, consistency, and engagement to support diverse learning styles.
🔆 INSTRUCTIONAL DESIGN HIGHLIGHTS
📍Structure for Manageable Learning: Each module is strategically divided into smaller chunks to promote cognitive load management and ensure learning is digestible and focused.
📍Consistent Module Design: All modules follow a structured and predictable format to enhance navigation and reduce learner frustration. Each module includes:
- A lesson plan for clear learning objectives.
- A motivational video featuring teacher testimonials to build relevance and inspire learners.
- Core learning content with interactive exercises to reinforce understanding.
- A closure/summary for reflection, a list of project-based assignments, and a preview of the next module.
- A password-protected access system to maintain a sequential learning flow.
📍Learner Autonomy and Flexibility: The course adopts a linear progression, requiring learners to master each module sequentially. However, learners retain control over their learning experience with opportunities to review past content and select resources tailored to their preferred learning styles.
🔆 SUPPORTING MATERIALS AND TOOLS
📍To streamline the course development, I utilized:
- A flowchart for mapping the course structure.
- A detailed storyboard to visualize content delivery.
- A Gantt chart for project timeline management.
- A media strategies chart to align instructional materials with learning objectives.
🔆 FINAL DELIVERABLES
The project culminated in two key outputs:
📍The eCourse: An interactive, fully online learning experience.
📍A comprehensive student handbook: Included tutorials, guides, exercises, and grading rubrics to support learner success and autonomy.
This flowchart showcases a meticulous design process, emphasizing alignment between instructional strategies, learner needs, and project goals.
Multimedia Projects
Adobe PremierePro: Creative Presentation for Senior Instructional Designer Role
I created a video to showcase my mentoring skills, leadership philosophy, and instructional design expertise.
Filmed in Siracusa, Sicily, the footage highlights my approach to building trust through authentic relationships, adapting to individual learning styles, goal-setting, autonomy, and accountability.
Drawing on 14 years of teaching, I explained how I would train others in visual design, user experience, and accessibility.
Filmed in Siracusa, Sicily, the footage highlights my approach to building trust through authentic relationships, adapting to individual learning styles, goal-setting, autonomy, and accountability.
Drawing on 14 years of teaching, I explained how I would train others in visual design, user experience, and accessibility.
Adobe PremierePro: A Concealed Firearm Prevents Crime
This persuasive documentary highlights my video production expertise, focusing on a current and controversial topic.
I recorded and edited 50% of the footage, demonstrating my skills in video recording, editing, and post-production.
Using Adobe Premiere Pro, I crafted a visually engaging and impactful narrative that effectively conveys the message.
I recorded and edited 50% of the footage, demonstrating my skills in video recording, editing, and post-production.
Using Adobe Premiere Pro, I crafted a visually engaging and impactful narrative that effectively conveys the message.
eLearning Projects
Certificate of Completion
Earning a Certificate in Articulate 360 was an exciting milestone in my instructional design journey.
It allowed me to dive deep into the entire suite of tools, like Storyline 360 and Rise, and sharpen my skills in creating engaging, interactive, and learner-centered content.
This certification showcases my commitment to staying up-to-date with the latest eLearning tools and my passion for designing content that truly connects with learners.
It allowed me to dive deep into the entire suite of tools, like Storyline 360 and Rise, and sharpen my skills in creating engaging, interactive, and learner-centered content.
This certification showcases my commitment to staying up-to-date with the latest eLearning tools and my passion for designing content that truly connects with learners.
Rise: Distance Learning Bootcamp
Enhancing Online Instruction for World Language Instructors.
🔆 PROBLEM
World language instructors faced significant challenges transitioning to online teaching environments. Many lacked experience in designing effective digital courses and applying accessibility standards to create meaningful and engaging learning experiences.
This knowledge gap led to inconsistencies in course quality and student engagement, negatively impacting learning outcomes.
🔆 SOLUTION
To address this, I designed the Distance Learning Bootcamp (DLB)—an interactive, self-paced eCourse tailored specifically for world language instructors.
Developed using Articulate Rise 360, the course integrates instructional design principles with practical strategies for distance teaching.
Key features include:
📍Comprehensive Content: Covering 13 chapters, the course explores essential topics such as eLearning science, visual design principles, usability, accessibility, interactivity, and assessment.
📍Practical Applications: Instructors learn to select effective delivery methods, apply eLearning and visual design principles, and implement accessibility strategies in their courses.
📍Interactive Learning: Engaging activities, scenarios, and resources connect theory to real-world applications, helping instructors build confidence in designing and delivering high-quality online courses.
🔆 RESULTS
The Distance Learning Bootcamp equipped instructors with the skills and tools needed to transform their online teaching practices.
Outcomes included:
📍Improved Course Quality: Instructors reported higher confidence and competence in creating visually appealing and accessible courses, leading to more consistent and engaging learning experiences.
📍Enhanced Student Engagement: Instructors observed increased student participation and satisfaction.
This project showcases my ability to design targeted, impactful eLearning solutions that address specific instructional challenges and drive measurable results.
🔆 PROBLEM
World language instructors faced significant challenges transitioning to online teaching environments. Many lacked experience in designing effective digital courses and applying accessibility standards to create meaningful and engaging learning experiences.
This knowledge gap led to inconsistencies in course quality and student engagement, negatively impacting learning outcomes.
🔆 SOLUTION
To address this, I designed the Distance Learning Bootcamp (DLB)—an interactive, self-paced eCourse tailored specifically for world language instructors.
Developed using Articulate Rise 360, the course integrates instructional design principles with practical strategies for distance teaching.
Key features include:
📍Comprehensive Content: Covering 13 chapters, the course explores essential topics such as eLearning science, visual design principles, usability, accessibility, interactivity, and assessment.
📍Practical Applications: Instructors learn to select effective delivery methods, apply eLearning and visual design principles, and implement accessibility strategies in their courses.
📍Interactive Learning: Engaging activities, scenarios, and resources connect theory to real-world applications, helping instructors build confidence in designing and delivering high-quality online courses.
🔆 RESULTS
The Distance Learning Bootcamp equipped instructors with the skills and tools needed to transform their online teaching practices.
Outcomes included:
📍Improved Course Quality: Instructors reported higher confidence and competence in creating visually appealing and accessible courses, leading to more consistent and engaging learning experiences.
📍Enhanced Student Engagement: Instructors observed increased student participation and satisfaction.
This project showcases my ability to design targeted, impactful eLearning solutions that address specific instructional challenges and drive measurable results.
Rise: Jazz up Rise with Storyline blocks
Rise 360 is a fantastic tool for creating clean, professional eLearning courses quickly. But what if we want to take it up a notch?
In this sample, I show how adding Storyline 360 blocks can bring extra flair and interactivity to a Rise course.
From "jazzing up" the visual appeal of text to creating more dynamic and engaging content, Storyline lets us push the limits of what’s possible in Rise.
It’s all about blending the best of both tools to create a learning experience that stands out.
In this sample, I show how adding Storyline 360 blocks can bring extra flair and interactivity to a Rise course.
From "jazzing up" the visual appeal of text to creating more dynamic and engaging content, Storyline lets us push the limits of what’s possible in Rise.
It’s all about blending the best of both tools to create a learning experience that stands out.
Storyline: Spanish Interpretive Listening
🔆 PROBLEM
Students preparing for a U.S. Spanish language exam faced significant challenges, with many failing the exam due to difficulty connecting classroom learning to real-world applications.
🔆 SOLUTION
I designed and developed a customized eLearning module to address these challenges. The module features authentic, real-world scenarios woven into its scripts, enabling students to connect the target language to practical use.
Interactive exercises such as drag-and-drop and snap-together activities enhance engagement while strengthening listening comprehension.
Carefully chosen visuals support understanding by clarifying the relationship between words and concepts.
A built-in review feature at the end of each quiz allows students to revisit incorrect answers, reinforcing their learning.
🔆RESULTS
Before practicing with the eLearning module, students struggled to pass the language exam. After consistent use of the module, students significantly improved their performance, successfully passing the exam with increased confidence and comprehension.
Students preparing for a U.S. Spanish language exam faced significant challenges, with many failing the exam due to difficulty connecting classroom learning to real-world applications.
🔆 SOLUTION
I designed and developed a customized eLearning module to address these challenges. The module features authentic, real-world scenarios woven into its scripts, enabling students to connect the target language to practical use.
Interactive exercises such as drag-and-drop and snap-together activities enhance engagement while strengthening listening comprehension.
Carefully chosen visuals support understanding by clarifying the relationship between words and concepts.
A built-in review feature at the end of each quiz allows students to revisit incorrect answers, reinforcing their learning.
🔆RESULTS
Before practicing with the eLearning module, students struggled to pass the language exam. After consistent use of the module, students significantly improved their performance, successfully passing the exam with increased confidence and comprehension.
Storyline: Interactive Glossary
This module offers a unique and interactive way for learners to “look up” the definition of a word while reading in a language other than their own.
By using Hotspots and Lightboxes in Articulate Storyline 360, I created an intuitive experience that allows learners to seamlessly access word meanings without disrupting their reading flow.
This design promotes immersion and supports language comprehension in a practical and engaging way.
By using Hotspots and Lightboxes in Articulate Storyline 360, I created an intuitive experience that allows learners to seamlessly access word meanings without disrupting their reading flow.
This design promotes immersion and supports language comprehension in a practical and engaging way.
Storyline: Italian Interpretive Reading
🔆 PROBLEM
Students preparing for a U.S. Italian language exam faced significant challenges, with many failing the exam due to difficulty connecting classroom learning to real-world applications.
🔆 SOLUTION
I designed and developed a customized eLearning module to address these challenges. The module features authentic, real-world scenarios woven into its scripts, enabling students to connect the target language to practical use.
Interactive exercises such as drag-and-drop and snap-together activities enhance engagement while strengthening reading comprehension.
Carefully chosen visuals support understanding by clarifying the relationship between words and concepts.
A built-in review feature at the end of each quiz allows students to revisit incorrect answers, reinforcing their learning.
🔆RESULTS
Before practicing with the eLearning module, students struggled to pass the language exam. After consistent use of the module, students significantly improved their performance, successfully passing the exam with increased confidence and comprehension.
Students preparing for a U.S. Italian language exam faced significant challenges, with many failing the exam due to difficulty connecting classroom learning to real-world applications.
🔆 SOLUTION
I designed and developed a customized eLearning module to address these challenges. The module features authentic, real-world scenarios woven into its scripts, enabling students to connect the target language to practical use.
Interactive exercises such as drag-and-drop and snap-together activities enhance engagement while strengthening reading comprehension.
Carefully chosen visuals support understanding by clarifying the relationship between words and concepts.
A built-in review feature at the end of each quiz allows students to revisit incorrect answers, reinforcing their learning.
🔆RESULTS
Before practicing with the eLearning module, students struggled to pass the language exam. After consistent use of the module, students significantly improved their performance, successfully passing the exam with increased confidence and comprehension.
iBook: The US Government
🔆PROBLEM
Social studies teachers often struggle to find engaging, easy-to-use resources that present complex information about the U.S. government.
🔆 SOLUTION
I designed and developed an interactive iBook tailored for social studies teachers.
This resource is packed with measurable learning objectives, comprehensive information about the U.S. government, and chapter-based assessments.
To enhance usability, I chunked the content into two manageable chapters, allowing learners to focus on key concepts and assess their understanding at the end of each chapter.
Interactive elements such as pop-ups, hover states, scroll bars, and widgets are woven throughout the iBook to create a dynamic and engaging learning experience.
🔆RESULTS
The interactive iBook provided teachers with a visually engaging and easy-to-navigate resource for teaching U.S. government concepts.
The chunked format and interactive features improved learner engagement and comprehension, making complex topics more accessible.
Teachers reported increased student participation and a greater ability to retain key concepts.
Social studies teachers often struggle to find engaging, easy-to-use resources that present complex information about the U.S. government.
🔆 SOLUTION
I designed and developed an interactive iBook tailored for social studies teachers.
This resource is packed with measurable learning objectives, comprehensive information about the U.S. government, and chapter-based assessments.
To enhance usability, I chunked the content into two manageable chapters, allowing learners to focus on key concepts and assess their understanding at the end of each chapter.
Interactive elements such as pop-ups, hover states, scroll bars, and widgets are woven throughout the iBook to create a dynamic and engaging learning experience.
🔆RESULTS
The interactive iBook provided teachers with a visually engaging and easy-to-navigate resource for teaching U.S. government concepts.
The chunked format and interactive features improved learner engagement and comprehension, making complex topics more accessible.
Teachers reported increased student participation and a greater ability to retain key concepts.
What People Say
Chermaine Samodio
Instructional Design Supervisor at Percepta
I had the privilege of working closely with Diana as my team's Senior Instructional Designer. She is one of the most talented and inspiring professionals I've collaborated with.
Diana's expertise in instructional design is unparalleled. She can transform complex ideas into engaging, learner-centered solutions that drive results. Whether designing a training curriculum or mentoring the team, her attention to detail and commitment to excellence always shine through.
Beyond her technical skills, Diana's mentorship truly sets her apart. She is the go-to person on our team for guidance, support, and thoughtful advice. Her willingness to share her knowledge and empower others has elevated our team's performance. I admire her genuine passion for helping others grow. Her mentorship has been invaluable to our team, fostering professional and personal development.
Any organization would be lucky to have someone as talented, dedicated, and collaborative as Diana on its team. I wholeheartedly recommend her and look forward to seeing the continued impact she will make in instructional design.
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