Teaching

Human-Centered Design

In my curriculum, I use design thinking as a problem-solving methodology to teach technical documentation, data analysis, tools and technology, and professional development.

My teaching approach focuses on experiential learning, critical thinking, and collaboration. When individuals are actively engaged in the learning process, they are more likely to retain the skills and information they are learning. It also mimics real-life projects that students will likely come across in the industry.

To demonstrate, I created an assignment for a tools-based class in which learners choose an existing product, implement user research methods to collect data, analyze the data, and write a report. To conclude, students recommend changes grounded in data, create prototypes, and submit a "Before-After" comparison of the product.

Snippet of the Project Redesign assignment

For a class with a writing objective, I modified the assignment to include a more detailed report that contains visual representation of the data and thorough analysis that supports the outcome.

Technical Writing

My technical writing assignments have undergone continuous refinement over the years, integrating the latest practices and prioritizing student engagement.

To illustrate, the instructions assignment I use in my classroom has undergone several iterations. I originally taught this assignment using Dr. Northcut's Lego design instructions and now transitioned to a video format inspired by Dr. Swarts' work.

For the Lego instructions assignment, students used random Lego bricks to create a structure and then wrote the step-by-step instructions for it. Although this format of the assignment was popular with students, I wanted to try something different, especially for online learners. The discontinuation of Lego Digital Designer (LDD) software, also presented a challenge for online students who did not have access to physical Lego bricks.

Assignment sample (LDD images)

Recognizing the growing student interest in DIY and instructional videos, I adapted the assignment to a video format, offering greater flexibility for online learners. This format is also effective for non-AI generated content. Students select a task they have expertise in and create a short tutorial. They develop a script and then use their preferred software to record and edit the video. I have found this format to be effective for non AI use deliverables.

Snippet of the Instructional Videos assignment

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