Innovative Instructional Design Solutions for Engaging Learning Experiences

My Work

Designing Curriculum

I specialize in crafting tailored instructional materials and learning solutions that effectively enhance learning experiences, adapting to diverse educational needs throughout various Canadian institutions, organizations and businesses.

My design strategies identify the ideal learning ecosystem for clients, and I am confident developing curriculum for different modalities including online, distance, blended, face-to-face, workshops, and on-the-job training.

I have a strong technical, design and strategy skillset.

Click Portfolio at the top of this page to see examples of my previous work.

Professional Profile

With over 15 years of experience working in a wide variety of learning environments, I am well positioned to support unique learning needs. I am incredibly tech savvy, quickly adopting enterprise systems, and have developed content for delivery in seven different Learning Management Systems. I am also a creative designer, leveraging technology, media and visuals to enhance the learning experience through illustration, information design and engagement. I create instructional strategies for classroom, blended and online modalities, and adapt materials to the needs of target audiences. I have demonstrated strengths in strategic planning and complex project management. I work well in teams or independently and have developed strong leadership skills and confidence in directing others to complete projects on time while meeting project targets.

Work History

Lead Senior Instructional Designer

LearnUp Designs, Calgary AB
Incorp. 2024

Laurel is a seasoned Senior Instructional Designer with extensive experience in developing and executing engaging, impactful learning solutions on a contract basis. With a keen eye for instructional methodologies and a deep understanding of adult learning principles, Laurel expertly crafts e-learning courses, blended learning experiences, and facilitator-led training programs tailored to diverse audiences and industries. Known for a collaborative approach, Laurel works closely with stakeholders, subject matter experts, and project teams to translate complex information into accessible, results-driven learning content. As a contractor, Laurel brings a fresh, adaptable perspective to each project, skillfully navigating changing client needs and aligning deliverables with organizational goals. Skilled in using various authoring tools, including Articulate Storyline and Adobe Captivate, Laurel consistently delivers high-quality, innovative solutions that enhance learner engagement and performance.

Curriculum Designer

Calgary Police Service, Calgary AB
April 2018 - Nov 2024

Working with subject matter experts, I led many learning design projects in many formats. No stranger to working closely with different ranks of police officers, legal counsel, HR, and other key stakeholders to ensure training is compliant with legislation, policy, and safety. In 2023 I led the migration of eLearning content to a new Learning Management System by coordinating the work of six Curriculum Designers. Seconded for a year to restructure the recruit training program in 2021, I overhauled the eLearning requirements, implemented a fully online learning hub and focused on learner-centered design that encompassed EDI practices and learner feedback, while meeting competencies, and ensuring curriculum was reflective of workplace realities.

Instructional Designer

City of Calgary, Calgary AB
Jan 2014 - April 2018

Solely responsible for all the learning design of the Transportation Department, Laurel created several e-learning courses for employees, and managed the learning strategies for the Roads Foreman Training Program, and supported development of the Transportation Mentorship Program. I facilitated training courses, workshops, coached instructors, and implemented a knowledge capture process for retiring experts.

Virtual Programs Administrator

Mount Royal University, Calgary AB
Jan 2009 - Jan 2014

Managing curriculum development for the Continuing Education Faculty online and blended programs, I was responsible for over 300 online courses, certificates and diplomas. I directed the daily work of Educational Technologists to design engaging learning activities suitable for a wide variety of topics. I was critical in implementing an online curriculum revision process and collaborated closely with technical staff to ensure department needs and goals were supported. I sat on multiple technology committees to champion Continuing Education needs and build relationships with other faculties.

Technical Expertise

• Articulate 360 Apps, Adobe Captivate and Camtasia.

• Adobe Creative Cloud i.e. Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and Premiere.

• Learning Management System Administration & SCORM.

• Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)

• Microsoft Office Tools & Web apps including SharePoint

Instructional designers need technical competence to effectively create, adapt, and deliver engaging, accessible learning experiences across digital platforms.