Learning Design
Soft skills training
I work as Head of Learning Design at VirtualSpeech where I create active learning experiences to help people improve their soft skills. I have created and delivered training on a huge range of soft skills including mind-set techniques for overcoming a fear of public speaking, the power of body language for boostin confidence, how to listen so you actually hear, how to improve minfulness of assumptions and ambiguity in communication, and many more…
I spend a lot of time designing roleplays and other simulations where people can practice their communication skills with AI avatars (in VR or online).
I my storytelling and analytical skills on a daily basis invent the backstories, characters and scenarios to make these role-plays engaging and meaningful. My aim is always to make these experiences feeland realistic enough to trigger genuine emotional responses in the learner whilst remaining in a safe space.
Image from VirtualSpeech
Active learning
No matter what age I am creating for, I am passionate about active learning through doing! Throughout my career, I’ve spent as many years designing learning experiences for young children as for adults — and I find the overlap between the two to be huge!
Whilst the content and delivery vary with age, the foundational principle is the same: whether aged three or ninety-three, everyone learns best through active participation. And, like I do for children, I try to inject as much fun into adult learning experiences as is appropriate— making them all the more effective.
Storytelling is a hugely important part of an effective learning experience. Stories provide context and and purpose and can make learning material more accessible and relatable.