About Me

Dawn D. Kahan, EdM

I design creative and engaging programs by transforming information into relevant, resonant and relatable content. As a presenter, trainer and facilitator, I rely on a combination of enthusiasm, professionalism, empathy and humor to affect positive change. I specialize in learning experiences and developing programs, scripts and activities that bring SME lessons to life.


My aim is to make learning enjoyable and accessible, with special emphasis on Emotivational Design; bridging communication, comprehension, collaboration, individual perspectives and immersive experiences. 


I use scenario-based learning, compelling narrative arcs and emotional intelligence to produce meaningful, measurable and memorable change. Stories are how we learn, how we relate and how we make sense of our world, transcending challenges through our shared human experience.



As a multi-published author, comic illustrator and game designer, I recognize the power of engaging, entertaining and compelling narratives to shift mindsets and behavior.


I have a Master's Degree in Education from Harvard University with a specialty in hermeneutics, focusing on improving communication and inclusivity through interpretational theory.

Creative

I develop engaging, innovative, data-driven programs that transform complex information into relevant, resonant and relatable content.

Comprehensive

My process centers around crafting resonant and relatable content that empowers learners to meet challenges and generate solutions in order to achieve desired results. I use the ADDIE instructional design model; by analyzing the learning objectives and identifying needs, I can better understand the client's goals and address the specific performance gaps. Assessing the learners' prior knowledge and training, as well as their preferred learning styles, I am able to develop and design effective, engaging and impactful learning experiences that appeal to people on a personal level.

I outline a comprehensive plan that includes specific learning outcomes, goals, tools and assessments in order to achieve learning objectives. I design for a variety of learning styles and accommodations, including multimedia resources, narrative design, interactive activities and blended learning models to create dynamic and engaging training experiences.

I focus on achieving measurable outcomes, using backwards-design in order to prioritize the end results throughout the development process.  I establish clear learning objectives and use formative and summative assessments to evaluate learners' progress, comprehension and retention. By tracking learner performance and assessing the effectiveness of the instructional materials, I make data-driven decisions to continuously improve the learning experience.

Collaborative

I am committed to creating content that matters. Collaborating with subject matter experts, team members and stakeholders from the outset ensures that content is accurate, inspires ownership and aligns with the organization's mission and goals. Assessments that incorporate direct learner feedback from pilot tests and user evaluations help refine and improve the final product. My aim is to go above and beyond expectations and offer programs that are meaningful, measurable and memorable for long-term, positive change.