Quality Matters

Context

With over 13 years of experience in learning design and innovation, I serve as an Instructional Design Supervisor at Florida International University Online, leading initiatives that advance course quality, accessibility, and student success. I have supported the development of 50+ Quality Matters (QM) certified courses while guiding a high-performing instructional design team supporting the College of Communication, Architecture, and The Arts (CARTA).

Problem

Modern online learning environments must balance scale, quality, and innovation while addressing:

• Increasing demand for high-quality, accessible course design

• Need for data-informed decision-making to improve student outcomes

• Rapid evolution of learning technologies and AI integration

• Gaps in faculty adoption and confidence with emerging tools

• Need for strong mentorship and leadership development within instructional design teams

Quality Matters aligns with the university goals for student success

Actions Taken

• Led and supported 50+ QM-certified courses, ensuring alignment with quality and accessibility standards

• Mentored instructional designers through structured coaching, professional development, and leadership guidance

• Leveraged analytics from Blackboard Ally and Canvas to drive data-informed improvements

• Promoted strategic adoption of AI and learning technologies, including:

  • ChatGPT

  • H5P

  • Harmonize

  • PlayPosit

  • Vivo

  • Microsoft Teams and Zoom

• Applied structured design methodologies including Backward Design and ADDIE

• Fostered a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement across teams and faculty partnerships

• Championed accessibility, inclusivity, and intentional technology integration as core design standards

  
  

Framework

Applied a Human-Centered, Data-Driven Instructional Leadership Framework grounded in:

• Backward Design – Aligning outcomes, assessments, and learning experiences

• ADDIE Model – Structuring systematic course development and iteration

• Quality Matters (QM) Standards – Ensuring course quality and consistency

• Universal Design for Learning (UDL) – Supporting diverse learners through inclusive design

• Data-Informed Decision Making – Using analytics to drive continuous improvement

• AI-Enhanced Design Thinking – Leveraging AI as a catalyst for creativity, efficiency, and innovation

  
  

Impact

• Strengthened course quality, accessibility, and engagement across FIU Online

• Increased QM certification success and readiness

• Empowered instructional designers through mentorship, autonomy, and professional growth

• Enhanced faculty confidence and adoption of instructional technologies

• Positioned AI as a strategic enabler of creativity and human-centered design

• Reinforced a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement

  
  

Key Takeaway

Instructional design leadership is no longer just about efficiency—it is about elevating quality, creativity, and human potential. By integrating data, AI, and empathy-driven leadership, I strive to create learning environments where both students and educators thrive.