Susan Nelson Spencer: Designing Learning Experiences that Inspire

In the captivating world of fashion, where creativity and expression take center stage, Susan Nelson Spencer once danced amidst the glitz and glamour. Now, she weaves her expertise into a different tapestry, revolutionizing the landscape of instructional design. As the founder of Sandbox Learning Experience Design, LLC, Susan emerges as a visionary force, reshaping how organizations approach the art of learning. With a diverse background as a former fashion industry corporate trainer, college instructor, and administrator, Susan’s transition into instructional design unveils an awe-inspiring tale of transformation and empowerment. 

The Unexpected Path of Susan 

Susan’s journey into instructional design was a serendipitous discovery, much like many professionals in the field. Her initial foray into teaching began during her time in the fashion industry, where she developed and implemented training programs for retail employees. Recognizing her passion for teaching, Susan transitioned into a part-time teaching role at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM) after returning to California. 

While working at the college, Susan was involved in the nascent eLearning department, where she wrote curricula and designed and developed her own online courses. As she delved deeper into the world of online course design, she realized this field’s unique nature and potential. Inspired by conversations with current instructional designers and fueled by her own research, Susan decided to pursue a master’s degree in instructional design. 

Even before completing her graduate degree, Susan began freelancing for a corporate eLearning agency, paying off the entire cost of her education. This early success validated her decision to embark on this new career path and set the stage for her remarkable journey in the field of instructional design. Motivated by her growing expertise and a desire to make a lasting impact in instructional design, Susan embarked on a new chapter by establishing her own company, Sandbox Learning Experience Design. 

Crafting Inspiring Learning Journeys 

Sandbox Learning Experience Design, LLC is a pioneering force in instructional design, offering tailored services for diverse clients, including Fortune 500 companies, non-profit foundations, and organizations of all sizes. Specializing in instructional design, eLearning development, training, and curriculum design, Sandbox delivers dynamic solutions for online, virtual, hybrid, and face-to-face learning experiences. 

Their portfolio boasts an array of impactful projects, covering a wide spectrum of training topics. From leadership and coaching to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and career conversations to environmental, social, and governance (ESG), Sandbox tackles diverse subjects with precision and creativity. Additionally, Sandbox has developed learning and development programs for Generation Z soft skills, digital marketing, design thinking, and instructional design. 

Sandbox’s unique approach to each project sets it apart from other agencies. By incorporating design thinking and a concept called “backward design,” Susan and her team ensure that every project is tailored to achieve the ultimate learning goal while iterating to enhance the learner’s experience. Moreover, unlike larger agencies with multiple team members, Sandbox handles projects from start to finish, providing a more streamlined and agile process. 

Driven by innovation and a commitment to creating meaningful learning experiences, Sandbox Learning Experience Design, LLC continues to shape the future of instructional design, crafting inspiring learning journeys for clients across various industries. 

Guidance for Aspiring Learning Designers 

Susan seamlessly merges her fashion background with instructional design, infusing principles of color theory, design elements, and trends into her work. Her keen eye for visuals enhances the creation of engaging learning experiences. Furthermore, the fashion industry’s fast-paced environment instills in Susan resilience and openness to change, vital qualities for success in the dynamic landscape of instructional design.  

In her book, Next-Level Instructional Design: Mastering the four competencies shared by professional instructional designers, Susan draws connections between the skills of educators, curriculum developers, and graphic/UX designers, emphasizing the foundational abilities of teaching, training, writing, creating, and communicating. This holistic approach serves as a guiding beacon for aspiring professionals, offering a roadmap to thrive in the ever-evolving field of instructional design. 

Susan offers valuable advice for those aspiring to enter the instructional design field. Networking with professionals in the industry, assessing existing skills, and seeking educational opportunities are crucial steps in the journey. By fostering a growth mindset and staying up-to-date with technological advancements, instructional designers can equip themselves with the necessary tools for success.