Learning Specialist, Facilitator, and Educator

I create and implement evidence-driven integrated learning programs for improved health, equity, and development. 

In my career, I've contributed to various initiatives, such as designing learning programs for TRIUMF, facilitating grant-funded Work Learn programs at UBC, and supporting STEAM education with Science World. I've also provided personalized instruction at Emily Carr University in art and technology programs. These diverse experiences have shaped my understanding of integrated learning and its power to enhance developmental outcomes. 

A core interest in the impact of integrated learning on health informs my practice and continued education. I hold a Bachelor of Fine Art from Emily Carr University (2005) where I studied how society interprets culture (ethics in creativity), two years of study in Neuroscience from Dalhousie University (2010 - 2012) where I studied how integrated learning affects health (Psychoneuroimmunology), and a focus in Neuroarts and mental health from ongoing studies.

 

Professional Roles

March 2023 - present

Learning Designer, TRIUMF

As Learning Designer at TRIUMF, Canada's particle accelerator center, I develop and execute evidence-driven learning programs. My role involves leveraging my expertise in learning sciences to facilitate individual and organizational development. I collaborate with diverse teams, contribute to various projects, and apply my knowledge in integrated learning, facilitation, and experience design to create continuous improvement in learning practices.

2005 - present

Learning Experience Designer + Educator, integrated learning labs

Provide valuable expertise to NPOs, schools, and universities in the development and facilitation of integrated learning programs tailored to each environment and individual students’ needs. Collaborate with faculty, staff, professionals, and shareholders to design experiences for online and blended learning including courses, workshops, and learning resources with a learner-centered approach.

Demonstrated success providing holistic, integrated learning framework to 10K+ graduates across disciplines over 16 years.

2001 - present

andrea robin studio

andrea robin studio is an art practice where I'm able to marry science and art, using the canvas as a portal between our inner and outer worlds. My work melds styles of abstraction and realism, creating emotionally affected pieces that invite viewers to explore the intricate relationship between the mind and environment.

As a facilitator, andrea robin studio allows me to guide others in exploring their own creative practice through arts-based activities.

As an advocate for the intersection of creativity and mental health, I believe in the transformative power of creative practice for brain health.

andrea robin studio is a space where I can make my own progress in learning and locating resources accessible, enabling others to explore and harness the therapeutic potential of creative practice.

September 2022 - March 2023

Learning Experience Designer, Lighthouse Labs

Applied Learning Product's first assessment and evaluation framework to deliver technical learning content with compelling, immediate knowledge transfer. 

December 2020 - August 2022

Learning Specialist, Organizational Learning, Insurance Corporation of British Columbia

Acted as trusted advisor responsible for assessing, designing, and developing engaging and impactful learning programs and materials supporting individual, project, and organizational development to initiate HR's transformation from business training to organizational learning.

Learning Analyst, Enhanced Care, Insurance Corporation of British Columbia

Supporting access to learning technologies and effective online facilitation in provincewide transformation to adopt Enhanced Care.

June 2020 - September 2020

Learning Strategist, University Canada West

As first learning strategist, onboarded to leverage learning design expertise to build Centre for Learning Success from the ground up, through development of student-centered integrated learning program and resources. Developed content and methods aimed at improving student success by better supporting student-specific needs. Coalesced cross-team support to create and execute program strategy for producing actionable data and insights that drive performance and improvements across all areas of learning.

Functioned as central instructional designer and expert, initiating transformation of curricula into online learning – coached faculty and staff on unique technique for blended learning.

February 2020 - May 2020

Learning and Development Specialist, McMillan LLP

Provided national instructional design for firm-wide eLearning and training, contributed to capability development, and supported individual-led coaching for firm members while transitioning into work-from-home mandate in response to public health and safety recommendations during global pandemic.

2017 - 2019

Workplace Learning Coordinator, Work Learn program, University of British Columbia

Promoted to administer and oversee $6M+ in grant funding to 900 campus employers in direct support of 3K+ student employees for experiential learning across campus.

Irving K. Barber Learning Commons Program Assistant, University of British Columbia

Established, implemented, and provided daily assistance in support of new public service processes for 15+ Work Learn student staff focused on field work to identify and address complex, university-wide student needs. 

2015 - 2017

Development Manager, Artstarts in Schools

Supported the development of programs for philanthropic organization promoting and advocating the inclusion of visual and performing arts education for preschool through secondary schools. 

Program Coordinator, Artstarts in Schools

Volunteer, ArtStarts in Schools

2016

Grant and Research Development Officer, Science World

Collaborated with public and private foundations and agencies to identify fundable projects aimed at influencing and enhancing local to regional outreach of accessible educational programs. 

2005 - 2012

Programming Technician, Emily Carr University

Coordinated and facilitated integrated learning experiences throughout the University in collaboration with senior managers, departmental staff, and students in the Technical Services department. 

Special Projects

2019 - 2023

bonjour botanica

Created and delivered workshops, consultations, online resources connecting people with plants and environment including 'Seeds for Bees' Project, online community Plant Clinic, and edible wild plants (PNW) forest guiding tour.

2018

Facilitating for Social Change Workshop, Student Leadership Conference, University of British Columbia

Created and presented workshop for facilitators, teachers, mental health practitioners to design classroom learning with inclusion and accessibility.

2017 - 2019

Positive Space Workshop, Equity & Inclusion Office, University of British Columbia

Developed and facilitated workshops for Executive, Operations, and Staff Teams on delivery of University’s goals and mission, how these relate to public policy, and Human Rights Code provisions for creating and maintaining a safe, inclusive, accessible environment for individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities. 

Education

2010 - 2012

Bachelor of Science (45 credits), Dalhousie University

Relevant Subject: Psychoneuroimmunology
Focus: How integrated learning affects health outcomes

2001 - 2005

Bachelor of Fine Art, Emily Carr University

Relevant Subject: Ethics in Creativity
Focus: How society creates meaning through culture

Certifications

2021

UX Design

BrainStation

2020


Counselling Skills Practitioner 

Academy of Modern Applied Psychology

2019


Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Practitioner

Academy of Modern Applied Psychology

Community Engagement

2021 - present

Butterflyway Ranger, David Suzuki Foundation

Wild pollinators such as butterflies and bees are crucial to human survival. Climate change, development and widespread pesticide use are compromising their habitat and food sources. The Butterflyway Project aims to help people step up efforts to help pollinators find food and shelter.

1997 - present

Volunteer Letter Writer, Amnesty International

Write to international political leaders and influencers to advocate for human rights worldwide.

Using Format