Designing for Human Growth
With a background in education and psychology, I create instructional designs rooted in how people actually think and learn. I bridge the gap between academic research and practical intervention design to deliver meaningful, evidence-based results.
I specialize in transforming research and complex data into clear, engaging learning experiences using tools like Rise 360 and generative AI. My goal is to design intuitive, learner-centred content that feels human, supports real-world practice, and makes people curious to learn more.
Human-centered Design
I believe that transformative education begins with recognizing the inherent dignity and rights of every learner. My approach to instructional design is deeply human-centered, grounded in a commitment to inclusion, diversity and cultural sensitivity. By prioritizing the unique social contexts and lived experiences of students, I create learning environments that are not just accessible, but genuinely equitable and empowering for children around the world.
This specialized focus was refined during my Master’s at Utrecht University, where I concentrated on international development, education policy and children’s rights to quality education. I translate these global perspectives into practical designs that advocate for every child's potential. My goal is to build sustainable, socially-conscious learning experiences that respect cultural identity and ensure that no learner is left behind in the pursuit of knowledge.
Evidence-based Design
My approach is anchored in rigorous research and scientific inquiry, developed across two leading research universities. I hold a BSc in Psychology from Erasmus University Rotterdam and an MSc in Youth, Education and Society from Utrecht University. Having dealt with statistics, psychometrics, and critically searched for, interpret, and analyze complex research papers and data allows me to bridge the gap between Data Science and Learning Science. During my quantitative BSc thesis, I investigated the split-attention effect, examining how visual and textual placement impacts learner performance and their perceived cognitive effort. In contrast, my qualitative MSc thesis explored the socio-political impact of anti-segregation policies on Roma students in rural Romania. Today, I synthesize these insights to create learning experiences that are both evidence-based and deeply sensitive to cultural context. By combining data-driven methodologies with a focus on real learners, I design instructional content that is functional, inclusive, and truly effective.
Psychology-centered Design
My instructional design methodology is deeply rooted in a psychology-centered approach to learning. With a BSc in Psychology and a specialization in Educational Psychology, I bring a scientific lens to every project. My foundation was further enriched by a Minor in “Education for Social Change,” where I blended critical pedagogy with cognitive and developmental psychology to create transformative educational experiences. By understanding how the human mind processes and retains information, I design content that is not only effective but also compassionate and inclusive.
This commitment to student-centered design led me to create a specialized board game for Dutch primary schools, specifically designed to support migrant students facing the CITO test. The game's goal was to help these students feel socially included and better prepared for the exam. Our team’s dedication to this project was recognized when we won a prestigious contest, receiving the funding needed to expand and develop the game further. Today, I continue to apply these principles of psychology and social equity to build learning environments where every individual feels seen and empowered to succeed.
Professional CV
A comprehensive overview of my instructional design journey, grounded in psychology and focused on human-centered EdTech solutions.
Professional Experience
Education Team Intern, Aflatoun International
Contributed to instructional design and curriculum development for children and youth programmes by developing learning materials, conducting research and policy analysis, and collaborating with international stakeholders. Supported programme documentation and quality assurance processes to help ensure consistent, high-quality learning experiences.
Education
Master of Science in Youth, Education and Society, Utrecht University (focus on international development, education policy, and children’s rights to education)
Thesis: What Happens When Policy Falls Short? Evaluating Anti-Segregation Efforts and the Potential of Aflatoun’s “Life Skills and Financial Education for Peace” Programme in Rural Romania
Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Erasmus University Rotterdam (specialization in educational psychology; Minor: Education for Social Change)
Thesis: Designing for the Mind: Investigating the Effects of Text-Image Integration on Performance and Cognitive Load.
Technical Skills
• Rise 360 (Articulate)
• Storyline 360 (Articulate)
• E-Learning (Design & Development)
• Generative AI Fluency
• Quantitative Research
• Qualitative Research
• Statistical Analysis (SPSS)
• Thematic Analysis / Research Review
• User & Learner Needs Analysis
• Stakeholder Collaboration
• Workshop & Training Facilitation