Team: Solo Project for STEM teachers

Role: Graphic and Instructional Designer

Software: Adobe Creative Suite 

Timeline:  5 Days 

Copyright 2021

Design Process

• Research (1 Day):
  Researched mycology learning objectives and best practices in STEM lesson design. Studied instructional approaches for integrating science and real world environmental applications using mushroom growth. Performed a rapid competitive analysis using Canva templates to identify layout strategies that non designers can use to minimize interface errors and maximize clarity. This lesson template will be used in different grade levels.

• Design (2 Day):
  Created curriculum materials using Adobe Illustrator/InDesign for visual precision and professional formatting for classroom training. Ensured clean color use, image and text harmony, and optimal accessibility. Built materials for easy insertion into LMS (e.g., Canvas, Google Classroom) with flexible download options for students completing assignments independently.

• Review & Feedback & Iterate (2 Day):
  Collaborated with the internal instructional design team for peer review. Incorporated feedback to refine layout organization, content clarity, and interactive elements. Explored options for quiz and drag and drop activities via Articulate Rise/Storyline to support diverse learning modalities.

Key Features and Outcomes

• Cross-Curricular Connections:
  Embedded links to science, ELA, math, social studies, and art to foster holistic STEM learning.
  Provided real-world context by highlighting sustainable mushroom-based innovations, entrepreneurship, and environmental stewardship.

• User Experience and Self-Paced Learning:
  Designed self-guided lesson flow enabling students to manage their schedules, with clear step-by-step activities and scaffolded instructions.
  Students could complete the assignment without instructor intervention, growing both scientific and time management skills.

• Template Adaptability:
  Produced a visually consistent, downloadable template that teachers can re-use and adapt for various topics.
  Utilized design strategies from Canva and advanced graphic tools for professional content that avoids common layout or accessibility issues among non-designers.

Reflections and Impact

This curriculum demonstrated how educators can quickly generate effective, visually compelling STEM lessons using creative software and collaborative peer review. The process streamlined design, reduced technical barriers, and produced resources ready for LMS deployment and scalable across classrooms for all grades.