My name is Joanna Simone, and I’m an instructional designer with a background that blends a passion for education, technology, and accessibility. I began my career as a special education teacher, spending eight years integrating technology into classroom instruction and school-wide practices to better support diverse learners.

My interest in education began at age 13, when my brother was diagnosed with a learning disability—an experience that shaped my commitment to inclusive learning environments.

In 2021, I enrolled in ASU’s Learning Design and Technologies program, which led to my transition into instructional design. I first joined Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College as an Instructional Design Associate and currently serve as an instructional designer for the W. P. Carey School of Business. In this role, I specialize in course design, instructional consultation, technology integration, and continuous improvement, collaborating with faculty and subject matter experts to build engaging, outcomes-driven learning experiences.

I initially planned to pursue a lifelong career in teaching, but then I came across an opportunity that allowed me to combine my two passions - education and technology. Currently, I work at the Office of Digital Learning, where I have learned how to utilize technology to enhance the learning experience. My background in education has prepared me to make informed decisions for course development and instructional design.

The core of instructional design is to recognize the gaps in knowledge or skills and create strategies that help students achieve their learning objectives. Using the ADDIE model, I approach course design with a careful eye towards making deliberate choices that improve the learning experience.

As an instructional designer at ASU, my goal is to continue contributing to the university’s commitment to innovation and access in education. I'm passionate about designing inclusive, high-impact learning experiences that support ASU’s diverse student population. While my path continues to grow, I’m proud to support the university’s mission and advance its legacy of excellence in teaching and learning.