As an HR Business Partner at Louisiana Workers’ Compensation Corporation (LWCC), improving the way employees learn is part of Abigail Menard’s job. Through LSU’s online Learning Design Certificate, she’s gaining new tools to bolster her organization’s Leadership Academy.
“I lead our in-house Leadership Academy, including content development, facilitation, and ongoing learning initiatives,” Abigail said. “I believe this program will strengthen my course development skills, enhance our existing leadership program, and provide me with the tools to create even more effective learning experiences for our employees.”
Her experience is a clear illustration of how learning design skills can help professionals responsible for workplace training create more effective learning programs.
How Abigail Uses Learning Design Skills at Work
Abigail’s interest in learning and development grew through her professional experiences and education. A lifelong Louisiana resident, she earned her undergraduate degree in history and her M.S. in Leadership and Human Resource Development from LSU. She pursued both graduate and certificate programs through LSU Online to become more effective in her HR career.
“My goal is to be a thoughtful and strategic partner to the business units and employees I support, and LSU’s online graduate and certificate programs helped me develop the skills needed to do that…The [Learning Design Certificate] program has allowed me to continue developing professionally while bringing new ideas and perspectives to my work and projects,” she said.
Its foundational course has already introduced best practices and frameworks Abigail’s using to improve the LWCC Leadership Academy.
“While we refine and evolve the program each year, the frameworks and tools I have gained through this coursework will help strengthen its next iteration,” she said. “I believe the upcoming version of the Leadership Academy will be our best yet because of that!”
Employer Support Amplifies the Impact of Professional Development
LWCC played a critical part in Abigail’s decision to pursue the certificate. “I would not have been able to pursue the Learning Experience Design certification without my employer’s support and assistance. I am very grateful for LWCC’s dedication to continued learning and partnership with LSU Online,” she said.
LWCC provides an example of employer education benefits that help employees pursue relevant professional development opportunities and bring new knowledge back to their organizations. Education benefits can become part of a greater talent strategy, helping employers close skills gaps and preparing current employees to take on new roles.
For professionals considering continuing their education, Abigail highlights the importance of staying connected with your available resources to maximize your experience. “Communicate with your program coordinators!” This practice, in combination with the flexibility to enroll in new courses and even extend courses when life demands it, has helped her make the most of the certificate program while working.
Explore Professional Development Through LSU Online
Through five self-paced courses, the online Learning Design Certificate from LSU gives professionals the skills to design quality learning programs while they develop a portfolio of real-world projects. Topics include establishing relationships with stakeholders, aligning learning experiences with industry standards, and project management. After completing all courses in the certificate program, learners receive an official LSU certificate.
Ready to take the next step in your professional development? Explore the program and enroll today.
LSU Online Education Benefit Partnerships
Learn MorePowered by the LSU system, LSU Online offers access to over 150 degrees, certificates, and courses designed for working adults. Learn how your organization can partner with LSU Online to provide employees with professional development and education opportunities that align with talent strategy.
