Hi, I’m David Schlotterback — Instructional Designer & eLearning Developer

I create learning experiences that are clear, accessible, and built for real results. With a Master’s in Instructional Design & Technology and nearly a decade of hands-on eLearning development, I specialize in transforming complex content into engaging, interactive, and user-friendly learning solutions.

My work spans statewide education initiatives, corporate training, and multimedia-rich eLearning, with strengths in:

• Articulate Captivate development (interactive modules, scenario-based builds, SCORM/xAPI)
• Adult learning theory and evidence-based design (ADDIE, SAM, Backward Design)
• Canvas LMS course builds & structured learning paths
• Accessibility & UDL-aligned design
• Visual communication and multimedia production
• SME collaboration and project planning

Whether developing statewide training for the Nebraska Department of Education or building custom learning experiences for diverse organizations, my goal is always the same: design learning that is intuitive, inclusive, and impactful.

Take a look around—this portfolio showcases the work I’m most proud of and reflects the thoughtful, learner-centered approach I bring to every project.

Nebraska Department of Education

Integrating Secondary Newcomers and SLIFE Students Into Your District

Nebraska Department of Education

Training Modules – English as a Second Language (Sample)

I contracted with the Nebraska Department of Education in the development of eLearning modules aimed at training staff on the state rule regarding English Learner programs in school districts throughout Nebraska. The training modules also provide support in creating and integrating the programs statewide.

The ELL module has reached 437 learners, with 104 completions and 275 actively progressing at their own pace. Completers average a strong 98% performance, and educators consistently praise the course for providing practical, high-value resources they can use to better support ELL students. 

WHAT I PROVIDED:

Storyboarding, Script Editing, Motion Graphics, Animation, Voice Over, eLearning and Interactive Development (Articulate Storyline), SCORM File Production

This module can be purchased at the NDE website.

Nebraska Department of Education

Training Modules – Homeless Liaison Training (Sample)

I contracted with the Nebraska Department of Education in the development of eLearning modules aimed at training homeless liaison staff in school districts throughout Nebraska. The training modules also provide support in creating and integrating homeless liaison programs statewide.

The Homeless Liaison module has 78 enrollments, with 49 completions and zero drop-offs. Learners typically finish in 1–2 hours, earning a perfect 100% average score. Participants report that the training delivers meaningful, actionable guidance to strengthen support for Homeless Liaison staff.

WHAT I PROVIDED:

Storyboarding, Script Editing, Motion Graphics, Voice Over, eLearning and Interactive Development (Adobe Captivate), SCORM File Production

This module can be purchased at the NDE website.

Introduction to Graphic Design

IDT Graduate Project

This course was built around the Backward Design framework utilizing Open Educational Resources (OER) for all instructional materials and user guides. The theories used were Cognitivism (memorizing and information processing via OER) and Constructionism (summative assessments).

WHAT I PROVIDED:

Instructional Design, eLearning Development, Content Design, Curriclum Development, Formative Assessments, Summative Assessments, LMS Development (Canvas), Bloom’s Taxonomy

Drawing 101

IDT Graduate Project

This is a IDT graduate program project. The directive was to create an online eLearning course from scratch using a website builder.

This course was built around the Backward Design framework utilizing Open Educational Resources (OER) for all instructional materials.  The instruction is rooted in the Constructionism Learning theory in that in every module the learner is to construct an artifact based on the modules’ instruction.

This course required use of Absorb, Do, and Connect activities and was to adhere to ADA accessibility requirements.

Download the Course Outline

WHAT I PROVIDED:

Instructional Design, eLearning Development, Course Design, Bloom’s Taxonomy, Curriculum Development, Formative Assessments, Summative Assessments, Web-based Instruction Development and Design (using Wix.com).

Animation and Motion Graphic Demo Reel

AIMS Center for Math and Science Education

This compilation showcases a series of educational animations and motion graphics I produced while working with the AIMS Center for Math and Science Learning. Each piece was designed to support K–12 students in understanding complex STEM concepts by pairing clear instructional design with engaging visual storytelling.

These animations were developed as part of purchasable learning modules used by schools nationwide. They extended and enriched the hands-on math and science activities sold by AIMS, providing teachers with high-quality digital content to deepen instruction, reinforce conceptual understanding, and enhance student engagement. Through these visuals, I helped transform classroom learning materials into interactive, media-rich experiences that brought STEM concepts to life.

WHAT I PROVIDED:

Animation, Motion Graphics, Graphic Design, Illustration, Editing

TOOLS USED:

Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, After Effects, Premiere Pro), Microsoft Office 365, Google Suite

Let’s Transform Potential Into Performance Together!