Tuesday, April 7, 2026

Portfolio

Hi, I’m Janeive Norman.

I design clear, engaging learning experiences that support understanding, accessibility and real-world application.

My portfolio highlights work in instructional design, inclusive learning, AI-supported content development and technology integration.

Featured Projects

UDL-Based Instructional Design for Inclusive Learning

A project focused on reducing barriers, improving accessibility and supporting diverse learners through Universal Design for Learning principles.

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AI-Generated Lesson Evaluation

An evaluation of AI-generated instructional content focused on alignment, rigor, engagement and the role of human oversight in learning design.

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Learning Design for Knowledge and Reasoning

A learning design project centered on reasoning, critical thinking and helping learners make meaningful connections across ideas and contexts.

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About Me

I am an educator and instructional designer with a background in curriculum development, literacy and learner-centered design. My work focuses on creating structured, accessible and engaging learning experiences that help learners build understanding and apply new skills.

I am especially interested in instructional design, eLearning development, accessibility and practical learning solutions that improve engagement and performance.

Sunday, April 5, 2026

Designing Engaging Learning Experiences

Project Overview

I design clear, engaging learning experiences that improve understanding, accessibility and performance.

The Challenge

Many learners struggle to apply communication strategies in real situations. Traditional training often focuses on information rather than practice, which limits retention and impact.

My Approach

  • Breaking down complex communication concepts into simple, actionable steps
  • Designing scenario-based learning experiences
  • Structuring content to guide learners step-by-step
  • Keeping the experience clear, engaging, and easy to follow

Tools Used

  • Canva (visual design and layout)
  • PowerPoint (content development)
  • Rise 360 (in progress)

Design Decisions

I prioritized clarity and usability by using clean layouts, organizing content into digestible sections, and aligning visuals with key learning points. The focus was on real-world application rather than theory.

Outcome

This project demonstrates my ability to design structured, learner-centered experiences that support understanding and practical skill development.

Next Steps

I am continuing to expand this project into an interactive eLearning module using Rise 360, incorporating scenario-based interactions and knowledge checks.

Wednesday, April 1, 2026

SIOP Lesson Plan — Animal Habitats (Kindergarten, Science & ELA)

This kindergarten SIOP lesson plan integrates Oklahoma Academic Standards for science (OAS K.LS1.1) with ELA language objectives, designed for a dual-language, multilingual classroom. It includes bilingual vocabulary materials with English/Spanish cognates, sentence frame scaffolds, picture-supported activity cards, a four-criterion assessment rubric, and a full instructional rationale grounded in second language acquisition research. Developed for English Language Learners and emergent bilinguals at varying proficiency levels. Download Lesson Plan Here

Friday, August 1, 2025

UDL Based Instructional Design for Inclusive Learning

Image source: Impuls Educació | Licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 4.0

Project Overview

  • Purpose: Design an inclusive learning experience using Universal Design for Learning principles to reduce barriers and support diverse learners
  • Audience: Early learners
  • Tools Used: Google Workspace, Assistive Technology Tools, Video and Audio Tools
  • Outcome: Developed a learning experience that improves accessibility, engagement and learner participation through intentional design strategies

Summary

This project focuses on designing inclusive learning experiences using Universal Design for Learning principles. The design emphasizes reducing barriers, supporting learner variability and integrating assistive technology to improve accessibility in online and blended environments.

Designing Inclusive Learning with Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

Universal Design for Learning supports the creation of inclusive learning experiences by addressing learner variability and reducing barriers. Effective implementation requires not only access to digital tools but also intentional strategies that support accessibility and engagement for all learners.

Designing to Reduce Barriers Online

When designing instructional materials for online learning, it is important to anticipate potential challenges and reduce barriers before they arise. Integrating assistive technology tools and Universal Design for Learning strategies supports accessibility, particularly for learners who may require additional support.

Effective technology integration aligns with the three UDL guidelines:

  • Representation
  • Action and Expression
  • Engagement

Supporting Representation

This guideline emphasizes providing multiple ways for learners to access content. In online environments, heavy text can create barriers, so it is important to incorporate supports such as text-to-speech, vocabulary tools and translation features to support comprehension.

Instruction should also be made clear and accessible by providing recorded directions and breaking content into smaller, manageable segments. Embedding comprehension checks throughout the learning experience supports understanding and allows learners to process information effectively.

  • Provide audio or video screencasts of directions
  • Embed comprehension questions throughout content

Supporting Action and Expression

This guideline focuses on providing learners with multiple ways to demonstrate understanding while supporting executive functioning skills such as planning and organization.

  • Scaffold assignments and provide timely feedback
  • Allow learners to complete tasks in manageable steps
  • Use tools such as Book Creator, UDL Book Builder and Tar Heel Reader to support multimodal expression
  • Incorporate speech-to-text tools to support written expression

Supporting Engagement

Engagement is essential for maintaining motivation in online learning environments. Learners may experience distractions or isolation, so it is important to design opportunities for interaction, relevance and autonomy.

  • Support self-management through clear expectations and task tracking tools such as Google Keep
  • Encourage collaboration through peer interaction and discussion using tools such as Zoom or Google Meet

Alignment with Instructional Framework

Representation

Learners access content through a video-based story, providing an alternative to traditional text-based instruction. This supports visual learners and enhances comprehension by offering multiple ways to engage with the material.

Action and Expression

The learning experience incorporates sentence frames to support structured responses. Learners are also given the option to record responses in audio format, allowing flexibility in how they demonstrate understanding and reducing barriers related to writing.

Engagement

  • Learners participate in group and peer discussions to promote collaboration and idea sharing
  • The learning experience connects to real-world contexts by encouraging reflection on how learners use their hands in positive and meaningful ways

Design Enhancements

Enhancing Self-Monitoring

A checklist can be incorporated to support task completion and guide learners through each step of the activity. This helps learners stay organized and ensures all components of the task are completed.

Supporting Language and Accessibility

Incorporating cognates can support language development by helping learners connect new vocabulary to their home language, making content more accessible and meaningful.

Technology Integration and Equity

Effective technology integration plays a key role in reducing barriers and promoting equitable learning experiences. As digital learning continues to expand, it is important to design learning experiences that ensure all learners can actively participate and benefit from technology.

By integrating Universal Design for Learning principles with digital tools, learning experiences can support diverse needs, backgrounds and abilities. This approach promotes accessibility, inclusion and meaningful engagement, helping to create more equitable learning opportunities for all learners.

Skills Demonstrated

  • Instructional Design
  • Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
  • Curriculum Development
  • Learning Experience Design
  • Educational Technology Integration
  • Accessibility and Inclusive Design
  • Content Development
  • Basic HTML

Impact

This project demonstrates the ability to design inclusive learning experiences that reduce barriers and support diverse learners. By applying Universal Design for Learning principles and integrating assistive technology, the design promotes accessibility, engagement and meaningful participation across different learning environments.

Reference

CAST. (2018). Universal Design for Learning guidelines version 2.2. http://udlguidelines.cast.org

Office of Educational Technology. (2024). A Call to Action to Close the Technology Access, Design, and Use Divides: National Educational Technology Plan. Department of Education. Retrieved from: https://tech.ed.gov/netp

Rao, K., Torres, C., & Smith, S. (2021). Digital tools and UDL-based instructional strategies to support students with disabilities online. Journal of Special Education Technology, 36(2), 105-112.

Thursday, July 24, 2025

AI-Generated Lessons for Learning Design and Alignment

Photo by Numan Ali on Unsplash

Project Overview

  • Purpose: Evaluate an AI-generated lesson to assess alignment, rigor and effectiveness in supporting learning outcomes
  • Audience: Early learners
  • Tools Used: MagicSchool AI, ChatGPT, Google Workspace
  • Outcome: Identified strengths and gaps in AI-generated instructional content and proposed improvements to enhance alignment, rigor and engagement

Summary

This project focuses on evaluating an AI-generated lesson to determine how well it aligns with learning standards and supports meaningful learning experiences. The evaluation highlights areas of strength, identifies gaps in rigor and technology integration and provides recommendations to improve instructional effectiveness.

Magic School AI Lesson Evaluation and Reflection

I completed three accessibility courses on the OkableTech website to learn how to improve the accessibility of my blog. Based on what I learned, I updated the color contrast to enhance text readability and chose a cleaner, more accessible font. These changes ensure that all visitors, including those using assistive technology, can engage with the content more easily.

Additionally, I used a screen reader to listen to my Week 2 blog post, which took just under five minutes to complete. The content flowed well and was easy to understand when read aloud. Moving forward, I will continue to be mindful of sentence length and structure to maintain clarity and support all types of readers and listeners.

Activity 2: Lesson Evaluation and Alignment

Part 1

🔗 Magic School AI Lesson Link: https://app.magicschool.ai/tools/lesson-plan-generator?share=cc868cc4-e6d0-444c-b409-22d56949cf33

For this assignment, I utilized Magic School AI to generate a kindergarten social studies lesson titled “Homes Around the World.” The standards addressed include Oklahoma Social Studies K.2.6, K.4.1, and ISTE 1.6 Creative Communicator.

Lesson Alignment and Rigor

The lesson aligns with the content standards and includes developmentally appropriate activities such as exploring different types of homes, engaging in discussion and participating in a drawing task. However, the level of rigor can be strengthened through additional instructional support and structure.

  • Explicitly teach needs vs. wants
  • Use a structured comparison activity (e.g., Venn diagram)
  • Include a specific picture book for guidance

Technology integration was requested but not included. Tools like Seesaw could enhance engagement by allowing learners to create and explain their thinking through audio and visuals.

Connection to Instructional Framework

This learning experience aligns with the Triple E Framework by supporting engagement and enhancement. However, the Extend component is limited, as technology is not used to connect learning beyond the classroom.

AI Tool Exploration

Tool: Worksheet Generator

The Worksheet Generator in MagicSchool AI allows for customized instructional materials based on topic, grade level and standards. It supports differentiation and can be used for practice or informal assessment.

Reflection and Insights

MagicSchool AI supports efficiency, differentiation and standards-aligned planning. However, AI-generated materials require human review to ensure quality, accuracy and alignment with learner needs.

Effective AI use also requires attention to transparency, data privacy and equitable access to ensure inclusive learning experiences.

Use of AI Tools

AI tools such as ChatGPT support communication, idea development and instructional material creation, helping streamline workflows while maintaining clarity and focus.

Skills Demonstrated

  • Instructional Design
  • AI Tool Evaluation
  • Curriculum Alignment
  • Learning Experience Design
  • Content Development
  • Critical Analysis
  • Basic HTML

Impact

This project demonstrates the ability to evaluate AI-generated instructional content and improve alignment, rigor and engagement while emphasizing the importance of human oversight.

Reference

Gura, M. (2016). Make, learn, succeed.

Kolb, L. Triple E Framework

U.S. Department of Education (2023). AI and the Future of Teaching and Learning

Thursday, July 17, 2025

Designing Learning Experiences That Support Knowledge and Reasoning

Project Overview

  • Purpose: Design a learning experience that promotes knowledge construction, reasoning and critical thinking
  • Audience: Early learners
  • Tools Used: Google Workspace, Visual Design Tools
  • Outcome: Developed an instructional resource that supports deeper learning through connections, reasoning and application

Summary

This project focuses on designing learning experiences that support knowledge construction, reasoning and critical thinking. The design draws on key concepts including the integration of prior knowledge, the role of expertise and bias and the development of inferential reasoning to promote deeper learning.

Instructional Design Framework

This design is informed by research on how learners develop knowledge and reasoning. Effective learning experiences support the integration of prior knowledge, encourage critical thinking and help learners make meaningful connections across contexts.

Adapted from How People Learn II (National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 2018)

Skills Demonstrated

  • Instructional Design
  • Curriculum Development
  • Learning Experience Design
  • Content Development
  • Critical Thinking
  • Visual Communication
  • Basic HTML

Impact

This project demonstrates the ability to design learning experiences that support knowledge construction, reasoning and critical thinking. It highlights how instructional design can promote deeper understanding by helping learners connect ideas, analyze information and apply learning in meaningful ways.

Reference

Adapted from How People Learn II, Chapter 5 (National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 2018)

Gura, M. (2020). Fostering Student Creativity.

ISTE (2016). ISTE Standards for Students.

Thursday, July 10, 2025

Designing Authentic Learning Experiences Using the AIW Framework

Project Overview

  • Purpose: Design a learning experience aligned with the Authentic Intellectual Work framework to support critical thinking and real-world application
  • Audience: Early learners
  • Tools Used: Google Workspace, Drawing Applications, Audio Recording Tools
  • Outcome: Developed a learning experience that supports knowledge construction, inquiry and real-world application through structured activities and technology integration

Summary

This project focuses on designing a learning experience aligned with the Authentic Intellectual Work framework. The design emphasizes critical thinking, meaningful engagement and real-world application by guiding learners to construct knowledge, participate in inquiry and demonstrate understanding through interactive activities.

Instructional Design Framework: Authentic Intellectual Work

Authentic Intellectual Work (AIW) supports the design of learning experiences that promote critical thinking, meaningful engagement and real-world application. This framework emphasizes moving beyond memorization by encouraging learners to apply prior knowledge, analyze information and create meaningful work.

Construction of Knowledge

Construction of knowledge focuses on developing new understanding by organizing, analyzing and applying information to solve problems. Learners move beyond memorization by engaging in higher-order thinking and applying their learning in meaningful ways.

Disciplined Inquiry

Disciplined inquiry builds on prior knowledge to support deeper understanding. It includes the development of a strong knowledge base, in-depth exploration of ideas and clear communication of understanding.

Value Beyond School

Value beyond school emphasizes designing learning experiences that have relevance outside of the classroom. Learners apply their understanding in ways that connect to real-world contexts.

Instructional Design Example

An example of this framework in practice is a learning experience focused on land and sea animals. Learners activate prior knowledge, engage in discussion and analyze how animal features support survival in different environments.

Learners then sort animals by habitat and create a digital drawing with an audio explanation describing where each animal lives and how it survives.

Alignment with Instructional Framework

This learning experience supports knowledge construction, disciplined inquiry and real-world application by encouraging learners to connect, analyze and apply their understanding.

Technology Integration and Learning Design

Digital Learning and Equity

Technology integration supports active learning by allowing learners to create and communicate their understanding. It also promotes accessibility by providing multiple ways to demonstrate learning.

Triple E Framework

This experience supports engagement, enhancement and extension through intentional use of digital tools and meaningful learning tasks.

Skills Demonstrated

  • Instructional Design
  • Curriculum Development
  • Learning Experience Design
  • Educational Technology Integration
  • Content Development
  • Critical Thinking
  • Basic HTML

Impact

This project demonstrates the ability to design meaningful learning experiences that promote critical thinking, engagement and real-world application.

Reference

Newmann et al. (2007). Authentic Instruction and Assessment

U.S. Department of Education (2021). Early Learning and EdTech

Portfolio

Hi, I’m Janeive Norman. I design clear, engaging learning experiences that support understanding, accessibility and real...