My Most Recent Work

1. Cognitive Load & Metaphor

The "glass as a person’s ability to hold stress" is a classic, effective instructional metaphor. It helps staff shift from a "why are they acting this way?" mindset to a "their cup is overflowing" mindset. This reduces bias and encourages empathy, which is critical in a high-stress environment like a homeless shelter.

2. Emotional Intelligence (EQ) Training

By asking the learner to reflect on their own "spillover" moments, you are utilizing Adult Learning Theory (Andragogy). Adults learn best when they can connect new information to their own lived experiences. This makes the training personal rather than just theoretical.

3. Behavioral Application

The video explicitly lists "bursts of anger, crying, self-harm, or reverting to addictive behaviors." This is a crucial link to make. It prepares staff to see these not as "bad behaviors" but as clinical symptoms of an overflowing stress cup.

Video Production Evaluation

1. Visual Style

The animated/illustrated style is a smart choice for this subject matter. It keeps the tone professional and accessible while avoiding the potential pitfalls of low-budget live-action (like poor acting or distracting backgrounds). The character is relatable and the visual of the water overflowing provides a clear "beat" in the narrative.

2. Audio & Pacing

The voiceover is calm and authoritative, which mirrors the behavior you likely want from your staff. The pacing allows for the reflection questions to land before moving to the next point.

3. Engagement

The direct-to-camera address (the character looking at the viewer) creates a sense of accountability. The reflection questions at the end are excellent for transitioning from a passive video-watching experience to an active learning session.

Course Blueprint: The Heart of the Intake Interview

1. Project Administration

• Project Name: OBK Keeper’s Orientation

• Company Name: Our Brother’s Keeper (OBK)

• Date: April 6, 2026

• Instructional Designer: Karen M. Lang

2. Project Context

• Purpose: To transition shelter staff from a "compliance-only" mindset to a "relationship-building" approach.

• Performance Objective: Learners will demonstrate the ability to perform an intake interview using plain language (A style of speaking and writing that ensures the client easily understands), open-ended questions, and trauma-informed timing.

3. Learning Requirements

• Audience Profile: New staff at OBK with varying levels of experience in serving the homeless population.

• Learning Environment: Desktop or tablet in a quiet office setting or at home.

4. Instructional Strategy & Course Structure

A. Hook: Water Glass Analogy

·   Outcome: Observe how interactions can raise or lower stress

·   Platform/Tool: Hedra + Premiere Pro (Video) embedded in Storyline 360

·   Components:

o   AI- Generated Video: Water in the glass

o   Voice Over Narration

·   Content Highlight: “It’s the staff member’s goal to lower, not raise client stress levels when possible.”

B. Introduction: The Strategic Power of Plain Language

• Outcome: Learners recognize plain language as a tool for psychological safety.

• Platform/Tool: Hedra + Premiere Pro (Video) embedded in Storyline 360.

• Components:

  • AI-Generated Video: A Hedra-animated avatar of a "Shelter Mentor" explains the "Designed for the Brain" philosophy.

  • Visual Overlay: A Premiere Pro-edited split-screen showing "Cluttered Brain" vs. "Calm Brain" icons.

• Content Highlight: "At OBK, clear communication is an act of respect...".

C. Activation: The Four Pillars of Engagement

• Outcome: Define and identify the core values of OBK communication.

• Platform/Tool: Storyline 360 (Interactive).

• Components:

  • Tabbed Interaction: Four interactive tiles representing Connection, Safety, Clarity, and Autonomy.

• Content Highlight: Shifting language from "Subject" to "Guest" to build immediate connection.

D. Skill Demonstration: The Art of the Open-Ended Question

• Outcome: Differentiate between closed and open-ended questions.

• Platform/Tool: Storyline 360 + Premiere Pro.

• Components:

  • Motion Graphic: A Premiere Pro animation of a "Closed Gate" transforming into an "Open Path".

  • Audio/Narrative: Examples of the 5-second "Wait Time" rule to allow guests space to process.

• Content Highlight: Shifting from "Are you staying?" to "How can we support your stay?"

E. Skill Application: The Jargon Filter

• Outcome: Practice translating complex language into empathetic plain language.

• Platform/Tool: Storyline 360.

• Components:

  • Drag-and-Drop: A custom-themed funnel interaction where learners "filter" language.

• Content Highlight: Dragging "Verify eligibility" into the filter to see it emerge as "Talk about staying at the shelter."

F. Simulation: Empathy in Action – "Sarah"

• Outcome: Enhanced decision-making, empathy, and communication skills.

• Platform/Tool: Storyline 360 + Interactive Scenario Plugin.

• Decision Point: Learners choose between inquiring about trauma or addressing a service animal's needs to establish rapport.

• Consequences: Visual and dialogue-based feedback illustrating the impact on interview dynamics and client trust.

G. Final Demonstration: The "Alex" Scenario

• Outcome: Apply communication skills in a realistic, high-stakes intake environment.

• Platform/Tool: Hedra + Storyline 360.

• Components:

  • Branched Scenario: A Hedra-generated guest reacts dynamically based on the learner’s dialogue choices.

• Content Highlight: Navigating sensitive topics, such as substance use, without triggering a threat response.

5. Media & Assets

• Hedra Assets: Consistent avatars for the "Guest" and "Mentor" to maintain narrative flow throughout the module.

• Visual Philosophy: Emphasis on "Plain Language" and "Brain-Based" design to ensure psychological safety for the learner and the guest.