Cheryl M. Popp, Ed. M

Instructional Systems Designer, Hatalom Corp., Orlando, FL (Remote)                                                       03/23-03/2024

 

Clearance:  Secret Status and Public Trust (Client:  Cubic)

 

This job involved designing, developing, and implementing computer-based training (CBT) for interactive multimedia instruction (IMI) and instructor-led training (ILT) within a multi-functional team. Key responsibilities included:

• Courseware Development: Collaborating with internal and external subject matter experts (SMEs), instructional designers, multimedia developers, and engineers to create and deliver training materials for both classroom and mobile delivery methods.

• Training Environment Design: Designing and testing training programs in a 3D interactive virtual ship environment, integrating 2D and 3D equipment, avatars, and job performance resources.

• Content Creation: Working closely with SMEs to develop realistic learning scenarios, ensuring alignment with learning objectives and adult learning principles.

• Assessment and Evaluation: Creating evaluation tools and assessments to gauge training effectiveness, including digital storyboards and interactive learning activities.

• Collaboration and Oversight: Overseeing curriculum development, providing QA support, and troubleshooting client concerns related to learning materials.

• Teamwork: Working in a co-located, multi-company, and multi-disciplinary team to support both the aesthetic and technical design of IMIs, ensuring they met performance objectives.

This role required strong collaboration, technical skills: Adobe Dreamweaver, AIM v5.0, Adobe Captivate, Adobe Connect, Articulate Storyline/Rise, and expertise in both instructional design and multimedia development, with a focus on delivering engaging and effective training solutions.

 

Instructional Systems Designer, Longevity Consulting, LLC, Washington, DC (Remote)                         12/21-03/2023

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Clearance:  Secret Status and Public Trust (Client:  NTC / FMCSA / Department of Transportation)

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This job involved applying the Instructional Systems Development (ISD) process to design and develop instructor-led training courses and associated materials. Key responsibilities included:

• Training Material Design: Creating and updating instructor manuals, student manuals, toolboxes, and job aids, ensuring that materials were current and aligned with training goals.

• Curriculum Development: Collaborating with government SMEs to develop, update, and tailor curricula for various training courses. This included designing lesson plans, practical applications, and instructional methodologies, while ensuring alignment with specific subject/skill requirements.

• Evaluation and Needs Assessment: Assessing client training needs and evaluating curriculum requirements to ensure that training objectives are met. Analyzing and validating training effectiveness by reviewing outcomes like course material quality, exams, and instructor requirements.

• Multimedia Integration: Incorporating multimedia formats into training courses to enhance engagement and effectiveness.

• Customized Learning Solutions: Developing specialized learning and development strategies for different functional areas.

• Piloting and Testing: Participating in the piloting of newly developed courses and updating them, as necessary. Collaborating with multimedia developers/designers to assess and design Computer-Based Training (CBT) modules

Overall, this role required a blend of instructional design expertise: Adobe Dreamweaver, AIM v5.0, Adobe Captivate, Adobe Connect, Articulate Storyline/Rise, collaboration with SMEs, and continuous assessment to ensure the creation of effective, up-to-date training materials that met client needs.

 

Instructional Designer II, Carley Corporation, Orlando, FL (Remote)                                                            03/21-12/2021

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Clearance:  Secret Status (Client:  NAWCTSD)

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This job focused on the creation of interactive training materials for both small and large groups, with an emphasis on sound instructional design, effective training strategies, and participant engagement. Key responsibilities included:

• Instructional Design: Developing training materials that incorporated established instructional design principles and participant activities, ensuring content was both educational and engaging.

• Evaluation Tools: Creating tools to assess trainee knowledge, performance, and the effectiveness of the training.

• Independent Work: Demonstrating a high level of autonomy by working without direct supervision, and tailoring design efforts to meet production timelines and the desired level of interactivity for each project.

• Staying Current: Maintaining up-to-date knowledge of training and development research, including learning and motivation theories, as well as the latest materials, methods, and strategies for instructional design.

• Multimedia Courseware Development: Collaborating with graphic artists, programmers, and SMEs to create engaging and interactive multimedia courseware. This involved using CBT authoring tools to design and package training modules.

• Content Creation: Developing curriculum materials in various formats (e.g., instructor-led, CBT, web-based, mobile) and researching data sources for instructional content, including additional information for both instructor and participant use.

• Customization and Flexibility: Adapting training materials to suit different delivery methods and training contexts, ensuring that materials were effective across multiple platforms.

In this role, I played a key part in developing flexible, engaging, and research-backed training materials across a variety of formats, collaborating with cross-functional teams to produce high-quality, interactive content.

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Instructional Designer, Appliedinfo Partners, Inc. (AIP), Somerset, NJ (Remote)                                      03/20-12/2020

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Clearance:  Secret Status (Client:  Leidos - AFATDS)

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This job involved analyzing, creating, and developing interactive online training content for multiple Army training programs, using the ADDIE (Analyze, Design, Develop, Implement, Evaluate) instructional design model. Key responsibilities included:

• Training Content Development: Creating engaging and interactive online training materials for various Army courses, with a focus on knowledge and performance-based learning.

• Assessment Design: Designing assessments and learning checks to verify learner understanding and performance, including remediation and software emulation exercises to support learning objectives.

• AFATDS Support: Contributing to the Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data System (AFATDS) upgrade initiative, helping to integrate updated content and systems into the training programs.

• CBT Production: Collaborating with courseware production teams to create computer-based training (CBT) modules using DIF (Distributed Instruction Framework), an in-house authoring and content management platform.

• SME Collaboration: Communicating with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to clarify course content, address questions, and ensure accuracy and relevance in the training materials.

This role required a combination of instructional design skills, technical expertise with the DIF platform, and effective collaboration with SMEs and production teams to create high-quality, interactive training solutions for the Army.

 

Instructional Designer / Curriculum/Multimedia Developer, KMS Solutions, LLC, Melbourne, FL       11/15-12/2018

(Remote)

Clearance:  Secret Status (Client:  DEOMI - Patrick Air Force Base, FL)

 

This job involved multimedia instructional design and LMS (Learning Management System) administration, focusing on developing and managing training programs for both in-person and online delivery. Key responsibilities included:

Instructional Design (ADDIE Approach)

• Course Development: Analyzed, created, and developed multimedia training products for in-person and online learning, adhering to DoD instructional systems design guidance.

• Objective Setting: Developed Terminal Learning Objectives (TLOs) and Enabling Learning Objectives (ELOs), categorized them using Bloom's Taxonomy, and created learning hierarchies.

• Content Design: Reviewed and revised existing instructional materials, designed lessons, job aids, activity guides, PowerPoint presentations, and test items.

• Instructional Strategies: Determined appropriate instructional strategies and methods, selected instructional media, and analyzed resource requirements and constraints.

• Evaluation: Designed plans of instruction, evaluated instructional effectiveness, and ensured learning outcomes were met through assessments.

LMS Administration (CourseMill & FedLearn)

• User Management: Managed user accounts, roles, and permissions to ensure secure and organized learning environments in both CourseMill and FedLearn LMS platforms.

• Content Upload & Troubleshooting: Uploaded training materials, troubleshot technical issues, and ensured all materials were accessible and functioning correctly.

• Certification Development: Developed and managed certifications for course completion, ensuring that training programs met organizational requirements.

MOOC Development (Tahoe Studio & FedLearn)

• MOOC Creation: Used Tahoe (platform)/Studio to design and produce Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), including courses like The Art of Negotiation, Critical Thinking, and The Role of Analytic Bias.

• Refresher Training: Established and set up refresher training courses (e.g., Annual Security, Ethics, Workplace Harassment) in FedLearn LMS for Subsystems and KMS Solutions.

This role required a deep understanding of instructional design, multimedia production, and LMS management. The position involved end-to-end course development, from designing content and learning objectives to troubleshooting technical issues and ensuring courses met organizational training goals. It also included administrative responsibilities in managing LMS platforms to maintain smooth, secure learning environments.

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​Web Designer/Developer, Self-employed / Freelance Contractor, East Stroudsburg, PA                       09/01 - 10/2015

This job involved web development and content management, focusing on creating, updating, and maintaining websites. Key responsibilities included:

• Website Creation and Maintenance: Designing, updating, and ensuring the ongoing functionality of websites, ensuring they met both user needs and technical specifications.

• Content Writing and Editing: Writing, editing, and managing content to ensure it was clear, engaging, and aligned with website goals.

• Page Layout Design: Designing the layout of webpages, ensuring an intuitive and visually appealing user experience.

• Technical Requirements: Determining and implementing the technical needs for the website, such as server configurations, software tools, and integrations.

• Backup and Troubleshooting: Creating backup files for website security and resolving coding or technical issues to ensure seamless website performance.

This role required a mix of creative and technical skills, with a focus on web design, content management, and troubleshooting to ensure effective and efficient website operation.

 

Programmer Analyst, Burns International Security Services, Parsippany, NJ                                          09/98 - 04/2000

This job involved working on system projects that required learning, implementing, and maintaining software across multiple user systems. Key responsibilities included:

• System Project Management: Assigned to various system projects that required both technical learning and practical implementation to ensure smooth operation across different user platforms.

• Back-office Program Enhancement: Focused on improving back-office programs, particularly for quality assurance purposes, helping to ensure the reliability and functionality of internal systems.

• Project Involvement: Contributed to several major projects, such as:

       o    A/P QSP Conversion: Worked on the conversion of accounts payable (A/P) processes within the Quality Service  Program (QSP).

       o    Y2K Projects: Participated in the Y2K remediation efforts for systems, including Cobra Travis and Putnam, to address potential issues related to the year 2000 date change.

This role required a blend of technical expertise, attention to detail, and the ability to work on complex system projects that supported business operations and ensured compliance with internal standards and external regulations.

 

Analyst, Andersen Consulting, Parsippany, NJ                                                                                                   03/97 - 09/1998

This job involved a variety of technical and administrative roles, with a focus on system administration, user support, and database management. Key responsibilities included:

CBT (Computer-Based Training) Administration

• Online Course Management: Served as the CBT Administrator, overseeing online training courses and ensuring the system was updated regularly.

• Technical Liaison: Functioned as the technical liaison for the CBT system, ensuring that any issues were addressed and communicating updates to relevant stakeholders.

Time Reporting System (Artes Administrator)

• System Administration: Managed the Artes Time Reporting System, managing new releases and updates.

• User Support: Provided technical assistance to users, addressing issues or questions related to the system.

• Help Desk Liaison: Functioned as the Artes technical help desk liaison, coordinating with the technical team to resolve system-related issues.

ABT Backup Administrator (Internal Time Reporting/Project Tracking)

• System Support: Served as the backup administrator for the internal ABT Time Reporting and Project Tracking System.

• User Assistance: Helped users with technical issues, ensuring smooth operation of the system.

• Regular Postings: Managed weekly or monthly postings within the system to ensure data was accurately tracked.

Database Management (MS Access)

• Software Tracking: Created an MS Access database to track in-house software, improving tracking and inventory management.

Procurement and Vendor Management

• Product Ordering: Managed the procurement process, including obtaining, ordering, and delivering products needed to satisfy customer requirements.

• Vendor Coordination: Contacted vendors to obtain competitive pricing and performed status checks on orders.

• Finance Coordination: Submitted completed orders to the Finance Department for processing and payment.

This role required strong organizational skills, technical knowledge, and the ability to manage both system administration tasks and procurement processes efficiently. The position involved working across multiple platforms and systems, providing user support, and ensuring smooth operations for both internal and external stakeholders.

 

Systems Analyst Assistant/PlanView Administrator                                                                                        08/95 - 03/1997

Apprise Insurance Information Services, Morristown, NJ 

• Delivered comprehensive technical, application, and administrative product support, including user access management, ad hoc report generation, and coordination of new releases and enhancements.

• Maintained and updated system tables, managed installations and upgrades, oversaw cost rate and application structure tables, and ensured secure system interface and access control.

• Produced regular reports such as monthly unapproved time reports for timekeepers and biweekly overtime reports for HR. Managed onboarding tasks for associates and consultants and tracked authorized personnel for time approval.

• Provided support for Lotus Notes and email functionalities within the Notes Application Management department.

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​Systems Coordinator, Apprise Insurance Information Services, Morristown, NJ                                      08/95 - 3/1996

Computer Helpdesk Support, CorNet International, Ltd., Stroudsburg, PA                                                04/95 - 8/1995

MIS Assistant, MANE, USA, Wayne, NJ                                                                                                                  01/92 - 10/1994

Administrative/Data Entry Clerk

Programmer Analyst, ITT Avionics Division, Clifton, NJ                                                                                   03/86 - 03/1991 

General Clerk A

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Substitute Teacher / Instructional Aide, Kindergarten Aide, PK-4 Aide, East Stroudsburg Area School District, and Notre Dame Elementary School, E. Stroudsburg, PA                                                                                              08/07 - 10/2015

• Adaptable instructional assistant and substitute teacher supporting early childhood education across multiple grade levels. Experienced in teaching foundational literacy, numeracy, and computer skills while fostering fine motor development and classroom engagement.

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•    Web Development & Programming: HTML, DHTML, XML, XSL, JavaScript, Java, ORACLE/SQL, COBOL, OS/JCL, VM/CMS, DOS, Adobe Dreamweaver
•    Content Management & Design: WIX, WordPress, Adobe CS6 Design & Web Premium
•    Multimedia & eLearning Tools: AIM v5.0, Adobe Captivate, Adobe Connect, Articulate Storyline/Rise, Camtasia, Questionmark, Lectora, SCORM, CourseMill (LMS), Animoto, ZOOM, Skype, Google Teams, Tahoe by Appsembler, Studio, DIF (Distributed Instruction Framework), AI - ChatGPT, Manus, Perplexity, Claude, Gemini, Gamma, Riverside, OpusClip, MS Copilot, AWS AI/ML Tools
•    Graphic & Video Tools: Adobe Photoshop, Audacity, Picasa, Screencast-O-Matic, YouTube, Vimeo, Jing, Wink, Windows Live Movie Maker, GIMP, SmartDraw, Canva, Infogram, Genially, WordArt, Piktochart, Visme, VUE, FreeMind
•    Office & Project Management Tools: Microsoft Office Suite, Visio, Acrobat Reader, Jira