My professional experience reflects a strong commitment to designing effective, learner-centered educational experiences in higher education. As an instructional designer, I collaborate with faculty and academic teams to develop engaging courses, integrate educational technologies, and apply evidence-based instructional design frameworks to support student learning.
My work includes course redesign initiatives, LMS course development, faculty training resources, accessibility and Universal Design for Learning implementation, and the development of instructional materials that enhance both teaching effectiveness and student engagement.
The resume below provides an overview of my professional experience, education, and instructional design expertise.
My work includes course redesign initiatives, LMS course development, faculty training resources, accessibility and Universal Design for Learning implementation, and the development of instructional materials that enhance both teaching effectiveness and student engagement.
The resume below provides an overview of my professional experience, education, and instructional design expertise.
Summary
I am an Instructional Designer with a combined 10+ years of experience across higher education and K–12 learning environments. I specialize in designing engaging, accessible, and learner-centered courses for online, hybrid, webinar, and instructor-led formats. My background includes partnering with a wide range of subject matter experts, applying instructional design theory, and integrating learning technologies to produce impactful educational experiences. I am highly skilled in accessibility (WCAG 2.1, UDL), curriculum alignment, and digital learning innovation, with a strong commitment to building inclusive instructional ecosystems that support diverse learners.
Skills
Instructional Design & Development
Curriculum design, eLearning development, content creation, assessment strategies, instructor-led training design, learner engagement strategies
Accessibility & Learning Science
Universal Design for Learning (UDL), WCAG 2.1 compliance, formative and summative assessments, continuous improvement, learning analytics
Collaboration & Leadership
SME partnership, cross-functional teamwork, faculty support, project management, clear stakeholder communication
Professional Strengths
Problem-solving, adaptability, creativity, user-centered design, quality assurance, template/system creation, process improvement
Curriculum design, eLearning development, content creation, assessment strategies, instructor-led training design, learner engagement strategies
Accessibility & Learning Science
Universal Design for Learning (UDL), WCAG 2.1 compliance, formative and summative assessments, continuous improvement, learning analytics
Collaboration & Leadership
SME partnership, cross-functional teamwork, faculty support, project management, clear stakeholder communication
Professional Strengths
Problem-solving, adaptability, creativity, user-centered design, quality assurance, template/system creation, process improvement
Tools
Instructional Design Experience
Digital Instructional Designer — Golden Gate University (2022–Present)
I design and develop accessible, outcomes-aligned online and instructor-led courses across multiple programs. My work includes collaborating with more than 80 SMEs, building multimedia learning materials, and leading course redesigns. I implement WCAG 2.1 accessibility standards, create and refine course templates, and manage multiple projects simultaneously—contributing to improved learner satisfaction and more efficient development processes.
Instructional Design Intern — University of South Alabama (2020–2021)
I supported the development of REDCap training and digital learning initiatives, helped refine instructional tools to increase engagement, and redesigned modules using instructional design and accessibility best practices.
I design and develop accessible, outcomes-aligned online and instructor-led courses across multiple programs. My work includes collaborating with more than 80 SMEs, building multimedia learning materials, and leading course redesigns. I implement WCAG 2.1 accessibility standards, create and refine course templates, and manage multiple projects simultaneously—contributing to improved learner satisfaction and more efficient development processes.
Instructional Design Intern — University of South Alabama (2020–2021)
I supported the development of REDCap training and digital learning initiatives, helped refine instructional tools to increase engagement, and redesigned modules using instructional design and accessibility best practices.
Course Development Experience
- Designed and developed 25+ online, hybrid, webinar, and instructor-led courses aligned to program outcomes and accessibility standards.
- Created multimedia learning objects using Storyline, Captivate, Camtasia, and LMS-native tools.
- Built standardized course templates that reduced development time by 15% while maintaining quality and consistency.
- Conducted accessibility reviews using WCAG 2.1 and UDL frameworks to ensure inclusive learning experiences.
- Collaborated closely with SMEs to translate complex content into engaging, digestible learning experiences.
- Redesigned online modules to strengthen learner engagement, clarity, and instructional flow.
Teaching Experience
Secondary Math Teacher — Stanhope Elmore High School
Designed technology-enhanced lessons aligned with state standards, monitored outcomes for 150+ students, and used data-driven strategies to improve achievement. Collaborated with school leadership to strengthen curriculum alignment.
Elementary Teacher (2nd, 3rd, & 5th Grade)
Applied instructional design principles in lesson planning, differentiation, and assessment. Integrated cross-curricular instruction, built inquiry-based learning experiences, and achieved measurable gains in reading proficiency. Recognized at the state level for student learning improvements.
Designed technology-enhanced lessons aligned with state standards, monitored outcomes for 150+ students, and used data-driven strategies to improve achievement. Collaborated with school leadership to strengthen curriculum alignment.
Elementary Teacher (2nd, 3rd, & 5th Grade)
Applied instructional design principles in lesson planning, differentiation, and assessment. Integrated cross-curricular instruction, built inquiry-based learning experiences, and achieved measurable gains in reading proficiency. Recognized at the state level for student learning improvements.
Education
Doctor of Philosophy in Education, Curriculum & Instruction
Regent University — Anticipated August 2028
Research Focus: Accessible and inclusive online learning strategies
Master of Science in Instructional Design & Development
University of Alabama at Birmingham — 2021
Capstone: Development of an online training module integrating accessibility and learner engagement principles
Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood & Elementary Education
University of Alabama at Birmingham — 2017
Regent University — Anticipated August 2028
Research Focus: Accessible and inclusive online learning strategies
Master of Science in Instructional Design & Development
University of Alabama at Birmingham — 2021
Capstone: Development of an online training module integrating accessibility and learner engagement principles
Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood & Elementary Education
University of Alabama at Birmingham — 2017
Certifications
Alabama Class B Teaching Certification (Valid 2024–2029)
- Early Childhood Education (Pre-K–2)
- Elementary Education (K–6)
Professional Recommendations and Testimonials
Kaitlyn is an exceptional Instructional Designer who has continually impressed me with her outstanding work ethic, high standards, and unwavering commitment to learning and growth. Throughout our collaboration, I have witnessed her committed student-centered approach to instructional design, solid foundation in pedagogy, and her consistently positive attitude, all of which make her an asset to any educational endeavor. Kaitlyn has an exemplary work ethic that sets her apart as a dedicated and reliable professional. She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that her work is of the highest quality and completed within set timelines. Her attention to detail, coupled with her ability to effectively manage tasks, has led to the successful completion of numerous projects, exceeding expectations each time. Her drive for excellence is reflected in the meticulous design and implementation of learning experiences that resonate with learners, fostering an environment of continuous improvement and growth. One of Kaitlyn's most commendable qualities is her genuine willingness to learn and expand her skillset. She actively seeks out opportunities to enhance her knowledge of emerging instructional design trends, educational technologies, and pedagogical approaches. Her openness to feedback and constructive criticism demonstrates a growth mindset, enabling her to adapt her design and methods to achieve the best possible outcomes. Her solid foundation in sound pedagogy enriches every facet of her instructional design work. Kaitlyn has a deep understanding of learning theories and cognitive principles, which she skillfully integrates into her designs to create effective and impactful learning experiences. This foundation enhances the overall quality of her educational materials, facilitating meaningful knowledge transfer. Kaitlyn’s passion for creating meaningful learning experiences and her commitment to continuous improvement are qualities that will undoubtedly contribute to her ongoing success as part of an educational team or project.
-Kate Hance, M.Ed. Senior Instructional Designer | Former Supervisor
-Kate Hance, M.Ed. Senior Instructional Designer | Former Supervisor
Kaitlyn and I worked together to present quarterly training sessions for adjunct faculty. Kaitlyn was a fantastic partner, developing and presenting top-notch instruction based on adjunct requests. She was a self-starter, highly professional, and great to work with. Highly recommended!
-Marie Spark, MBA, PMP | Former Instructor from GGU
-Marie Spark, MBA, PMP | Former Instructor from GGU