Derek Croad

   My work has expanded across being an instructional designer for Texas A&M, Post University, Herzing University, Wiley, and Camber Corporation. Within these positions, I create and develop instructional training and presentations while working with Subject Matter Experts (SME) for effective instruction in synchronous and asynchronous environments. Within these creations and development tasks, I assist other instructional designers and faculty in building and maintaining online courses, and project managed QA reviews while working on course refresh and development of workload schedules. I worked to implement course designs and revisions, assist with course setup for each term, and help faculty troubleshoot technical issues using tools embedded in Learning Management Systems as well as multimedia production tools and collaboration tools. It is within these tasks that I assisted in the development of support resources for faculty and students while exploring new technologies relevant to the online classroom.

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  Another role is a Sr. Training and Development Specialist for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. In this position, I triaged real-time training needs for technology teams. I designed and developed curriculum and documentation while designing instructional content that leverages industry tools. Our content and curriculum were broadcasted for distribution through virtual training to multiple sites and languages while producing video and audio training clips.

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  Not only was I an instructional designer, but I was an LMS Specialist and Adjunct Professor for Valencia College. While working at Valencia College, I designed my Blackboard course from an empty shell to enhance student learning by incorporating engaging technology to develop an overall successful learning experience. Within my course, my students use this LMS to help guide them in learning how to choose a major and articulate a pathway to complete their academic and career goals. Topics in the course include defining your purpose, demonstrating awareness of college support systems, communicating effectively, navigating college resources, applying college success skills, designing an education plan, and creating a financial plan.

 

  Throughout my career I have had an opportunity to train and develop not only educators but professional individuals as well. While I was completing my Master's at Michigan State University, I instructed incoming students, ages 25+, on how to navigate and use the educational system of ANGEL and how to register for classes. As the lead manager at Squeeze Athletics, I developed evaluation criteria and training opportunities for staff and coaches. My time at Soft Rock as a verification specialist I was able to inform the company on how they can increase their retention rate of employees and grow the successful outcomes during the professional development of new employees. As an instructor at Florida Virtual School, I created blackboard training for new instructors. When I worked for Osceola County Public schools, I not only developed a curriculum to instruct science to K-5 students but I created professional development for instructors on how to use SMART technology effectively in their classrooms. Even during my internship at the University of Central Florida, I was involved in adult learning by mentoring women’s golf, softball, and soccer athletes in time management, studying skills, motivation, course scheduling, etc.

  Please explore this website to learn more about my experiences and abilities. I look forward to hearing from you.

 

~Derek Croad