In my spare time you can find me digging for dusty records to add to my collection and spinning vinyl at local events. I'm a big fan of funk, soul, hip hop and all groove related genres. I’m a passionate basketball fan and a proud dad and husband.
Dean Ernst
Learning Experience Designer
Digital Creative
Web Developer
Digital Learning Specialist
Dean Ernst
Learning Experience Designer
Digital Creative
Web Developer
Digital Learning Specialist
About Me
Hi. My name is Dean.
I’m a learning experience designer with 10+ years experience within all areas of digital learning technologies and a background in web/ux design. I'm passionate about creating high quality learning experiences that are interactive and engaging by blending learner centred design principles with enhanced visual and multimedia elements.
My Approach
I champion modern Learning Experience Design (LXD) principles, crafting immersive, user-centric educational experiences that go beyond traditional models like ADDIE and SAM.
Embracing agile and rapid development, I meet today's need for quick, adaptable eLearning. This holistic, learner-focused approach results in more personalised, impactful, and relevant learning experiences, attuned to the complexities of the digital age.
How I Can Help
Learning Design
Crafting tailored educational experiences to engage and empower learners effectively.
Interactive Media
Merging dynamic multimedia elements to enrich learning, making it immersive and memorable.
UI/UX Design
Optimizing interfaces for intuitive navigation, ensuring your learners enjoy a seamless and engaging experience.
Learning Technologies
Harnessing the latest educational tech to deliver content that's both innovative and impactful.
Web Development
Building robust and responsive learning platforms that adapt to the needs of modern learners.
Consulting
Providing expert guidance to refine your educational strategies, ensuring you achieve desired learning outcomes.
Companies I've Worked With
My Interests
Resume
I've had the privilege to craft digital learning solutions for some amazing organisations – large and small, government, not-for-profit, higher education and everything in between!
Here's a glimpse into my professional journey:
Experience
2023 - Now
Learning Design Lead
CommBank
Innovative & engaging learning courses & programs
Designing and delivering innovative learning experiences that align with strategic business goals, ensuring the workforce remains future-ready and customer-centric.
2021 - 2023
Digital Learning Specialist
Auto & General
Digital Learning Experiences for Insurance/Financial Services
Designing & developing modern and engaging digital learning experiences for the financial services industry. Making complex concepts easy to understand and keeping industry knowledge up-to-date.
2018 - 2021
Digital Learning Designer
Royal Flying Doctors Service
Health, Aviation and Corporate Digital Learning Solutions
Worked across health, aviation and corporate divisions to design engaging and innovative online learning experiences for a range of audiences and purposes. Also developed a range of education and training solutions for RFDS QLD in the simulation and virtual reality environment.
2016 - 2018
Digital Learning Specialist
Minor Hotels
Delivering "Experiences Beyond Expectations"
Worked with internal and external stakeholders to develop online courses, modules and resources for Leadership, Induction, Onboarding, WHS, Customer services etc. I led the rollout of new LMS and development of the company L&D Digital Capability Framework and Blended Learning Strategy.
2011 - 2016
Digital Learning Developer
University of the Sunshine Coast
Creating and delivering world class digital learning resources
Worked collaboratively with Academics and other stakeholders to develop learning resource material to enhance the student experience. I led the Faculty of Arts & Business (FAB) eLearning team and moved into the Centre for Support & Advancement Of Learning & Teaching (CSALT) as a Senior Digital Learning Designer.
2003 - 2011
Web/eLearning Developer
Sunshine Coast Grammar School
Sunshine Coast Private School - eLearning, Intranet & Web
This role was varied, across the full spectrum of digital learning areas, including instructional design, eLearning development, intranet/web development and learning tools and systems. I led the implementation of the school rollout of the school LMS and subsequent development of web based learning materials for staff and students.
1994 - 2001
Physical Training Instructor
Royal New Zealand Airforce (RNZAF)
"Mens Sana in Corpore Sano" - A healthy mind in a healthy body
Created, delivered and managed fitness/recreation programs to ensure service members peak physical and mental readiness. Also delivered a range of recreation programs/initiatives for spouses and dependents.
Education
2001 - Present
University of Life
Self Taught & Industry Training
When making a career change in 2001, I considered going back to University to get more qualifications, but it was obvious to me that the dynamic nature of web technologies was not best served by another "piece of paper". So I chose a combination of self directed learning and "on the job" training in real world settings, solving real world challenges to make the transition to online education/web/digital pathways.
1999 - 2001
Post Graduate Diploma of Physical Education
Massey University (NZ)
I completed my Post Graduate Diploma in Physical Education on a part time basis while employed by the Royal New Zealand Airforce.
1992 - 1995
Bachelor of Recreation Management
Lincoln University (NZ)
With a major In Fitness Management, I completed my Bachelor of Recreation Management Degree. This qualification allowed me to gain employment in the New Zealand Defence Force as a Physical Fitness Officer.
Skills
eLearning Tools
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Articulate 360
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Evolve
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Elucidat
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Gomo
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iSpring
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Guroo
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Chameleon
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H5P
Learning Experience Design
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User-Centric Design
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Accessibility & Responsiveness
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Technical Proficiency
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Visual Communication
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ID/LXD Models
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Action Mapping
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Scenario Based Training
Multimedia Development
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Adobe CC
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Camtasia
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Vyond
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Loom
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Canva
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Iorad
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Synthesia
Technologies
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LXP/LRS/LMS Platforms
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Agile Methodologies
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SCORM/xAPI/ILT
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HTML/CSS/JavaScript
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AI (ChatGPT/Google Bard/MidJourney)
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UI/UX Methodologies
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Virtual/Augmented Reality
Portfolio
I blend instructional, UX, interaction, visual, and behavioral design elements to craft captivating learning experiences.
My portfolio is as varied as the clients I serve, ranging from dynamic sales and rigorous compliance training to comprehensive leadership development, engaging induction programs, detailed process/technical training, and specialised courses in sectors like healthcare, finance, aviation, transport and hospitality… in essence, I've created learning solutions for nearly every conceivable context!
Check out some of my work:
Cascading Goals Video
Video
Ambition Video
Video
LMS Promo Video
Video
PDS Video
Video
Graphic Design Gallery
Visual Design
Design Patterns Gallery
Visual Design
Get in Touch
I'm thrilled you want to contact me!
If you want to dive deeper into what I can offer, reach out to me. I can't wait to hear from you!
Contact Form