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Laura McAllister

Senior Instructional Designer at University of Arizona Office of Digital Learning

Professional Background

Laura McAllister is a seasoned professional in the field of instructional design and educational technology, with extensive experience in higher education and a proven track record of creating innovative and impactful learning experiences. Currently serving as a Senior Instructional Designer at the University of Arizona Digital Learning, Laura is dedicated to enhancing online course delivery and ensuring that students have access to top-quality educational resources. Her work primarily focuses on designing curricula that leverage technology to facilitate engaging and effective learning environments.

Laura's career has seen her take on various roles that highlight her expertise in instructional design. Before her current position at the University of Arizona, she held the role of Online Courses Administrator at Brigham Young University (BYU), where she honed her skills in course development and management, contributing significantly to the university's online educational offerings. Her previous role as an Instructional Designer at Utah Valley University enabled her to innovate teaching methodologies that were responsive to diverse student needs. Furthermore, her time at Deseret Digital Media as an Instructional Designer added depth to her understanding of digital content and its role in educational contexts.

Education and Achievements

Laura McAllister's educational background is as impressive as her career. She holds a Master of Science in Instructional Psychology and Technology from Brigham Young University, where she developed a strong foundation in the psychology of learning and the application of technology in educational settings. This was complemented by her studies at the University of Oxford, where she excelled in a Social Innovation Seminar, focusing on social impact with a remarkable 4.0 GPA. Such a commitment to excellence reflects her deep-seated passion for education and her ongoing quest for knowledge.

Additionally, Laura earned a Master of Education from Southern Utah University, achieving another outstanding 4.0 GPA. This advanced degree fortified her skills in educational leadership and curriculum design. Her undergraduate education includes a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and Teaching from Brigham Young University, where she first discovered her passion for educational innovation and effective teaching practices.

Notable Accomplishments

Throughout her career, Laura has made significant contributions to the field of education. Her position as Students Consulting on Teaching (SCOT) Coordinator at the Center for Teaching and Learning at BYU allowed her to engage directly with faculty and students, fostering a collaborative environment where instructional strategies could be improved upon through peer consultation. Additionally, her internship at the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Educational Technology showcased her ability to navigate complex educational environments and develop strategies that impact policy and practice at a national level.

Moreover, Laura's experience as a Graduate Teaching Assistant at BYU further reflects her commitment to student learning and mentorship, as she supported faculty in delivering high-quality instruction while honing her own teaching skills. Earlier in her career, she served as a teacher in the Nebo School District, bringing her expertise directly to the classroom and shaping the educational experiences of her students. Each of these roles has contributed to her overall philosophy of education, which emphasizes the importance of innovation, collaboration, and technology in the 21st-century learning landscape.

Achievements

  • Successfully developed and implemented online courses that enhanced student engagement and learning outcomes at the University of Arizona.
  • Achieved a 4.0 GPA while completing advanced degrees at both the University of Oxford and Southern Utah University, showcasing a strong commitment to academic excellence.
  • Coordinated peer teaching consultations at Brigham Young University, improving instructional practices across various disciplines.
  • Contributed to educational technology initiatives at the U.S. Department of Education that influenced nationwide educational policies.
  • Created innovative instructional materials and learning experiences that cater to diverse learning populations.

Related Questions

How did Laura McAllister enhance online learning experiences at the University of Arizona?
What strategies did Laura McAllister employ during her tenure as Online Courses Administrator at BYU?
What innovative teaching methodologies did Laura McAllister develop while working at Utah Valley University?
How has Laura McAllister's educational background influenced her professional development in instructional design?
What impact did Laura McAllister have in her role at the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Educational Technology?
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Location

Tucson, Arizona, United States