Tom Baer

About Tom Baer

I am a manager and designer with experience in many domains and many aspects of human learning (adult and grades 6-12). I understand and work with details and the big picture. At the University of Washington School of Nursing, the University of Washington School of Social Work, and at Apex Learning, I have successfully led curriculum design and implementation inituatives with a team-based approach that values input from all stakeholders and also focused the team on the needs of the learners.My projects include a wide range of domains including science, social science, math, adult and young adult learning, team development, and humanities.I began my career in interactive e-learning by designing content for the award-winning Science Sleuths CD-ROM, which was one of the pioneers in creating challenge-based, interactive multimedia learning environments with digital technology.I helped to found Apex Learning, starting in 1998 when I designed Apex\'s first online course, the award-winning AP Calculus. Since then, I have had the privilege of contributing to future directions in online learning, by designing innovative and effective environments and courses.I am skilled in helping teams work better and in helping team members understand each other better. My background includes significant experience in designing products, experiences, and services, and especially in making them easy to learn and use.Specialties: Learning sciencesCurriculum developmand and managementProgram EvaluationHuman learning and adaptationInteraction designMedia productionBusiness needs analysisBuilding and leading teams with honesty and a positive attitude

Experience

1. Senior Instructional Designer

   Puget Sound Energy

   Feb 2019 — Present · Seattle, WA, US

   Establish and support readiness and skills in electrical distribution operators who perform critical functions to keep our electrical grid operating safely and reliably. Work as a team with subject matter experts, business leaders, and change management professionals to analyze training needs and job functions and design, develop, implement, and evaluate training solutions.

Education

• University of Washington

  BA, English, Media Production

  1983 — 1987

• Western Washington University

  M.Ed., Curriculum, Teaching

  1990 — 1995

• University of Washington

  Ph.D. (completion planned in Summer 2013), Medical education, problem-based learning

  1983 — 2013

Skills

• Business Analysis
• Product Management
• Media Production
• Team Leadership
• Project Management
• Content Management
• Interaction Design
• Curriculum Development
• Addie
• Content Development
• Technical Writing
• Html
• Training
• Leadership
• Management
• Needs Analysis
• Usability Testing
• Educational Technology
• Video
• E-Learning
• Distance Learning
• Teaching
• Editing
• Curriculum Design
• Instructional Design
• Blended Learning
• Captivate
• Multimedia
• Strategic Planning