Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)

Focus Areas

Trauma-Informed Care • Adult Learning • Workforce Development

The Challenge

Professionals across healthcare, education, behavioral health, and community services frequently work with individuals who have experienced trauma. However, many professionals lack a foundational understanding of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), their long-term impact, and the role trauma-informed practices play in supporting positive outcomes.

My Approach

I designed a learning experience that introduces the science of ACEs while helping learners connect research to real-world practice. The course was structured using adult learning principles and incorporated opportunities for reflection, knowledge checks, and practical application to support engagement and retention.

Special attention was given to presenting complex concepts in an accessible and meaningful way, ensuring learners could understand not only what ACEs are, but why they matter in their professional roles.

Deliverables

• Instructional design

• Curriculum development

• Content organization

• Learner engagement activities

• Knowledge checks and assessments

• Adult learning strategy

What This Project Demonstrates

This project demonstrates my ability to transform subject matter expert content into engaging, learner-centered experiences that make complex topics accessible, meaningful, and actionable.

Key Skills Demonstrated

• Adult Learning

• Instructional Design

• eLearning Development

• SME Collaboration

• Curriculum Development

• Learning Strategy

Project Snapshot

Audience: Behavioral health professionals

Format: eLearning

Role: Instructional Designer & eLearning Developer

Tools: Storyline 360 , PowerPoint, Microsoft Word

Source Materials: SME-Provided PowerPoint and Facilitator Notes

Design Highlights

• Transformed SME-developed presentation content into a learner-centered eLearning experience

• Organized complex research into accessible, engaging learning modules

• Incorporated reflection opportunities and knowledge checks to reinforce learning

• Applied adult learning principles to support engagement and retention

Course Samples

The following screenshots and videos highlight key elements of the course, including content presentation, learner interactions, and knowledge checks.