My name is Joanna Simone, and I am a professional with a unique background that combines my passion for education and technology. I began my career as a special education teacher, where I spent eight years integrating technology into my teaching practices and departmental processes to improve learning experiences.

My interest in education started when I was 13 years old, and my brother was diagnosed with a learning disability. This personal connection inspired me to pursue a career in special education, where I continued to use technology to enhance my teaching practices.

In 2021, I enrolled in the Learning Design and Technologies program, and in 2023, I transitioned to become an Instructional Design Associate at Mary Lou Fulton's Teachers College at Arizona State University. In this role, I specialize in curriculum development, collaboration with subject matter experts, and designing courses that are aligned with specific learning objectives. My focus includes instructional consultation, materials refinement, technology integration, and quality assurance, all with a commitment to continuous improvement.

I initially planned to pursue a lifelong career in teaching, but then I came across an opportunity that allowed me to combine my two passions - education and technology. Currently, I work at the Office of Digital Learning, where I have learned how to utilize technology to enhance the learning experience. My background in education has prepared me to make informed decisions for course development and instructional design.

The core of instructional design is to recognize the gaps in knowledge or skills and create strategies that help students achieve their learning objectives. Using the ADDIE model, I approach course design with a careful eye towards making deliberate choices that improve the learning experience.

As a future instructional designer, my goal is to contribute to Mary Lou Fulton Teacher's College's mission of creating knowledge, mobilizing educators, and advancing education through exemplary course design. Proudly affiliated with ASU as an alumna and staff member, I am eager to uphold the institution's legacy of well-structured courses and deliver high-quality education to future Sun Devils.