The Multifaceted Talents of Donna Stanton

speaker1

Welcome, everyone! I'm your host, and today we have a very special guest, Donna Stanton, a Learning Experience Designer with a remarkable background in education and technology. Donna, thanks for joining us today!

speaker2

Hi, Donna! I'm so excited to have you here. Could you start by telling us a little bit about your educational journey? How did you get into instructional design?

speaker1

Absolutely, Donna has a fascinating story. She holds a Master’s in Instructional Design from the University of Massachusetts Boston, where she was also hired to develop eLearning modules for teacher licensure. That’s quite an achievement, isn’t it?

speaker2

Wow, that’s impressive! Could you share more about what motivated you to focus on instructional design and how you’ve applied it in your work?

speaker1

Donna’s focus on culturally responsive teaching is truly inspiring. She has a knack for adapting instructional strategies to respect linguistic and cultural differences. For example, at Northeastern University, she designed comprehensive curricula for international students, ensuring they were well-prepared for U.S. academic standards.

speaker2

That’s amazing! Could you give us a specific example of a project where you had to tailor your teaching methods to a culturally diverse group of learners?

speaker1

One of Donna’s standout projects was at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, where she managed a fellowship program for professionals from over 10 countries. She implemented instructional design methodologies that increased participant engagement and designed cross-cultural training content. This really showcased her ability to bridge cultural gaps in education.

speaker2

That’s incredible! How do you ensure that your instructional design is both engaging and effective for such a diverse group of learners?

speaker1

Donna’s approach to technology integration is also top-notch. She’s proficient in a wide range of tools, from learning platforms like Canvas and Moodle to eLearning tools like Articulate 360 and Camtasia. This technical proficiency allows her to create dynamic and interactive learning experiences that cater to different learning styles.

speaker2

Hmm, that’s really interesting. Can you share an example of how you used technology to enhance a learning experience for your students?

speaker1

Certainly! At the University of Massachusetts, Donna conducted learner experience analyses and developed eLearning solutions that aligned with institutional goals. She managed project timelines and deliverables, ensuring that the content was both accessible and engaging. For instance, she created asynchronous eLearning modules that allowed students to learn at their own pace while still meeting rigorous academic standards.

speaker2

That’s fantastic! How do you balance the technical aspects of instructional design with the need to create a personal and engaging learning experience for students?

speaker1

Donna’s experience in adult and K-12 education is another strength. She has been an educator for over 8 years, working with both adult learners and K-12 students in Massachusetts public schools. Her ability to support diverse learners by identifying clear goals and creating accessible learning is truly commendable. For example, she has organized and broken down complex topics into manageable, straightforward steps, making learning more accessible for all students.

speaker2

Umm, that’s really impressive. Could you tell us more about a specific challenge you faced and how you overcame it in your role as an educator?

speaker1

Donna’s project management skills are also noteworthy. At Harvard Graduate School of Education, she planned and structured accreditation projects, interviewed faculty, and built matrix analyses to show how principal licensure program content met state accreditation standards. This level of detail and organization is crucial for ensuring that educational programs meet the highest standards.

speaker2

That’s really detailed work. How do you manage to stay organized and keep everything on track, especially when working on multiple projects simultaneously?

speaker1

Donna’s global perspective is another asset. With citizenship in both the United States and the European Union, she brings a broad perspective to education and a deep appreciation for diverse cultures. This global mindset is reflected in her work, where she consistently creates learning experiences that are inclusive and respectful of all backgrounds.

speaker2

That’s really inspiring. How do you think your global perspective has influenced your approach to education and instructional design?

speaker1

Donna’s innovative teaching methods are a testament to her creativity and commitment to excellence. Whether it’s designing culturally responsive materials or integrating the latest technology, she always finds ways to make learning engaging and effective. For instance, her work with the European Citizen Energy Academy (EUCENA) involved transcribing audio from video, which required a deep understanding of both the content and the target audience.

speaker2

That sounds like a unique project. Could you share more about the impact you had on the learners and the community through this work?

speaker1

Donna’s technical proficiency and tools are the backbone of her success. She’s skilled in using a wide range of platforms and tools, from learning management systems to video and audio production software. This technical know-how allows her to create high-quality, engaging content that resonates with learners. For example, her use of Canva and Google Slides to create visually appealing and interactive materials has been a game-changer in her teaching.

speaker2

That’s really impressive. How do you stay updated with the latest tools and technologies in the field of instructional design?

speaker1

Finally, Donna’s impact on learners and communities is immeasurable. Her work in supporting diverse learners, creating accessible learning experiences, and fostering cultural responsiveness has made a significant difference in the lives of many students. Whether it’s through her role as an educator or her volunteer work, Donna is dedicated to making education accessible and meaningful for all.

speaker2

That’s truly inspiring. Donna, thank you so much for joining us today and sharing your incredible journey and expertise with us. It’s been a pleasure!

speaker1

Thank you, Donna, for being such an engaging and knowledgeable guest. And thank you, everyone, for tuning in. Stay with us for more fascinating discussions on education and technology. Until next time, keep learning and growing!