About Me

Hello
My name is Tara Allen.
I am an Instructional Designer and Curriculum Developer
Background:
I was a high school social studies teacher for 10 years. During that time I led a team of high school social studies teachers, created all of my own curriculum, and created over 10 online courses related to social studies.
In 2023 I left the classroom to pursue a career in Instructional Design. I studied design theories (ADDIE, SAM, Kirkpatrick model etc.) and learned new technology associated with instructional design (Articulate, Adobe, Camtasia). I took a certification course designed to help teachers transition to the role of instructional designer.
In April of 2024 I received my Masters Degree in Educational Technology and Instructional Design at Western Governor's University.
In August of 2023 I started a position at Utah Valley University as an instructional designer, helping professors design their courses and align them to learning outcomes. I have supplemented the position with various contract jobs for online schools and companies seeking courses and instructional experiences. I am also working at Imagine Learning in a seasonal position as a Professional Development Specialist helping Imagine Learning teach schools and districts how to use their new social studies curriculum. I have also continued teaching at a local care center for women with eating disorders and teach high school students in the evenings every couple of months.
As you can see, I am tenacious! I'm driven and motivated and I am passionate about creating engaging, equitable, and diverse learning experiences.