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Short Abstract
This education session introduces trauma-informed course design, focusing on practical strategies to foster safety, belonging, and trust in online learning environments. Participants will gain a clear understanding of trauma's effects on learning, explore frameworks like the TI-ADDIE model, and discuss specific applications of trauma-informed practices in their daily work.
Extended Abstract
Trauma adversely affects students’ ability to learn and re-traumatization is common in education settings, often due to a lack of awareness of the presence of trauma in learner’s lives. By contrast, the use of a trauma-informed approach to course design minimizes re-traumatization, fosters belonging, and creates online learning environments where learners are safe, trusted, and empowered.
In this education session, we will define trauma and trauma-informed education, discuss the negative effects of trauma on learning, and detail effective trauma-informed course design practices. We’ll dive into the core principles of trauma-informed education—safety, empowerment, trustworthiness, collaboration, choice—and explore the intersections of trauma-informed education and course design best practices. We’ll outline instructional design frameworks, such as the Trauma-Informed ADDIE model (TI-ADDIE), and share practical examples that highlight the importance of inclusive language, flexible assignments, and consistent course structure.
The primary goal of the session is to connect theory to personal practice. Throughout the session, participants will engage in think-pair-share activities, reflecting on what they have learned, sharing their insights, and brainstorming how they can apply trauma-informed practices in their work. By the end of the session, participants will have a clear understanding of trauma-informed course design principles and familiarity with practical tools to create inclusive, supportive online environments. This session welcomes educators at all levels of familiarity with trauma-informed practices, providing a space for both new and experienced educators to learn, share, and grow together.
In this education session, we will define trauma and trauma-informed education, discuss the negative effects of trauma on learning, and detail effective trauma-informed course design practices. We’ll dive into the core principles of trauma-informed education—safety, empowerment, trustworthiness, collaboration, choice—and explore the intersections of trauma-informed education and course design best practices. We’ll outline instructional design frameworks, such as the Trauma-Informed ADDIE model (TI-ADDIE), and share practical examples that highlight the importance of inclusive language, flexible assignments, and consistent course structure.
The primary goal of the session is to connect theory to personal practice. Throughout the session, participants will engage in think-pair-share activities, reflecting on what they have learned, sharing their insights, and brainstorming how they can apply trauma-informed practices in their work. By the end of the session, participants will have a clear understanding of trauma-informed course design principles and familiarity with practical tools to create inclusive, supportive online environments. This session welcomes educators at all levels of familiarity with trauma-informed practices, providing a space for both new and experienced educators to learn, share, and grow together.
Presenting Speakers
Raenalyn Loomis, M.A.
Instructional Designer at SUNY Empire State University
As an Instructional Designer at SUNY Empire State University, I collaborate closely with curriculum administrators and subject matter experts (SMEs) to develop and revise engaging online courses. My focus is on creating accessible and effective learning experiences that empower students. Leveraging technology and adult learning theory, I design courses that meet the highest standards of quality. I'm committed to professional development and collaboration within the online learning community.
Nichole Jakaub, M.A.
Instructional Technologist at SUNY Empire State University
I have dedicated my entire career to higher education, gaining extensive experience in student support and academic advising. My early roles involved advising adult learners on both their academic progress and financial matters. Over time, I transitioned into training, where I supported university advisors in their professional development.
After earning my Master of Arts in Psychology, I began teaching as an adjunct faculty member at several universities, which eventually led to my role as a Learning and Development Specialist for faculty. This position allowed me to combine my passion for education and technology, culminating in my current role in Instructional Technology. In this capacity, I support both students and faculty by guiding instructors through the course development process, always ensuring that student success and support remain central to the design.
After earning my Master of Arts in Psychology, I began teaching as an adjunct faculty member at several universities, which eventually led to my role as a Learning and Development Specialist for faculty. This position allowed me to combine my passion for education and technology, culminating in my current role in Instructional Technology. In this capacity, I support both students and faculty by guiding instructors through the course development process, always ensuring that student success and support remain central to the design.
Heather Bennett, Ph.D.
Instructional Designer at SUNY Empire State University
I am Instructional Designer with SUNY Empire where I work alongside talented faculty and staff to create inclusive, supportive, engaging online courses. I hold a Ph.D. in history and have worked internationally as an undergraduate instructor. My recent research interests and presentations have focused on ungrading, AI literacies, and DEIB in course design.
From Trauma to Trust: Building Safe and Inclusive Online Spaces through Course Design
Track
Learning Design, Instruction, and Open Pedagogy
Description
4/3/2025 | 10:15 AM - 11:00 AM
Modality: Virtual
Location: Zoom Room 6
Track: Learning Design, Instruction, and Open Pedagogy
Session Type: Education Session (45 min)
Institution Level: Higher Ed
Audience Level: All
Intended Audience: Administrators, Design Thinkers, Faculty, Instructional Support, Training Professionals, Technologists
Special Session Designation: Focused on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB), For Instructional Designers
Location: Zoom Room 6
Track: Learning Design, Instruction, and Open Pedagogy
Session Type: Education Session (45 min)
Institution Level: Higher Ed
Audience Level: All
Intended Audience: Administrators, Design Thinkers, Faculty, Instructional Support, Training Professionals, Technologists
Special Session Designation: Focused on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB), For Instructional Designers