Building Better Systems through Creative & Inclusive Design
A transformative mindset focus.
My Education
My work centers on instructional design that blends technology, equity, and emotional intelligence to create meaningful learning systems. I’ve led projects in accessibility, workforce development, and curriculum innovation rooted in community impact. My doctoral research, Effectiveness of Instructional Design and Technology in a Non-Traditional Parental Program (Liberty University, 2022), examined how design methods influence engagement and peacebuilding for parents in trauma-informed programs. The findings informed the development of my Transformative Mindset Instructional Design (TMID) model, which I published in the book, reminding others to "Feel It," with a focus on clarity, creativity, and care. This approach ensures learning remains effective, accessible, and deeply human.
My Skills
I bring expertise in instructional design models such as ADDIE, SAMR, and Bloom’s Taxonomy, using each to build purposeful and effective learning experiences. My work incorporates interactive elements, such as gamification, microlearning, and competency-based mapping, to enhance engagement and outcomes. I design platforms using tools like Adobe Captivate and Canvas, incorporating AI, augmented reality, and virtual reality into content that is both visually engaging and accessible. Every design is grounded in Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles to ensure inclusivity is built in from the start.
My Experience
I approach every day with a smile... My career spans K–12, higher education, and nonprofit leadership. In every role, I have focused on innovation, communication, and impact. I have led transitions to new learning technologies, used data to enhance instruction, secured grant funding, and expanded participation in programs that matter.
I work closely with students, faculty, and community partners to design systems that respond to real needs. My commitment to lifelong learning and belief in the power of education guide every step I take.
Clifton Strengths
Themes on 7/2/2024
This report highlights my top five CliftonStrengths from 34 options. CliftonStrengths focuses on maximizing individual strengths rather than fixing weaknesses. It emphasizes that people are most productive and satisfied when leveraging their strengths.
While my strengths may evolve and reflect insights from the day of the assessment, these resonate well with who I am today.
Learner | Achiever | Individualization | Analytical | Ideation
Contact Me
Reach out...
Feel free to reach out to gain access to courses, discuss exciting opportunities, share ideas, or have a chat. I enjoy collaborating on instructional design and technology or learning and development.
Looking forward to connecting with you!
Sonja L Howell, Ph.D.
