About
About me
Welcome to my portfolio
- Masters: M.A. in eLearning Design and Development
- PGCert: Learning, Teaching and Assessment in Higher Education
- Diploma: Graduate Diploma in MEd Adult & Further Education
- Honours: BSc. in Interactive Digital Media
- Degree: BSc. in Computing & Digital Media
- Location: Limerick, Ireland
- Email: sandrapicarra2@gmail.com
- Specialisation: eLearning, Digital Design & Creative Education
- Freelance: Available
Learning Experience Designer
My name is Sandra, I am a Learning Experience Designer, Adult Educator, and Digital Media Specialist passionate about creating meaningful, inclusive, and transformative learning experiences. My journey into education has been anything but traditional.
Originally from Portugal, I moved to Ireland as an adult learner seeking new opportunities and a fresh start. Returning to education transformed not only my career but also my understanding of learning, identity, and personal growth. Through this experience, I discovered the power of education to build confidence, create opportunities, and empower individuals to achieve goals they once believed were beyond their reach.
Today, my work combines creativity, technology, and pedagogy. I design and facilitate online learning experiences and classroom-based to Adult and Further Education, specialising in digital learning, multimedia production, curriculum design, and creative technologies. My practice is grounded in the belief that learning should be accessible, engaging, and relevant to the diverse experiences learners bring to the classroom.
Throughout my career, I have worked with a wide range of learners, including adult returners, multilingual learners, youthreach, creative practitioners, and individuals with diverse learning needs.
These experiences have strengthened my commitment to Universal Design for Learning (UDL), inclusive teaching practices, and learner-centred approaches that recognise and celebrate individual differences.
As an educator, I am particularly interested in authentic assessment, project-based learning, digital storytelling, and the thoughtful integration of technology to support learning. Whether I am developing eLearning resources, teaching Adobe Creative Cloud applications, designing multimedia content, or supporting curriculum development, my goal is always the same: to create learning experiences that foster confidence, creativity, curiosity, and lifelong learning.
This portfolio represents more than a collection of projects. It documents my ongoing journey as an educator, designer, and reflective practitioner. It showcases not only what I have created, but also what I have learned through teaching, collaboration, scholarship, and continuous professional development.
I hope this portfolio provides insight into my work, my values, and my commitment to creating inclusive and impactful learning experiences.
The following videos offers a small window into my journey, my values and the experiences that shape who I am.
Thanks for visiting.
About Me
My Transformative Experience
This is who I am
Resources
SP Learning-HUB
Teaching, Learning and Assessment Resources
Under construction...
Every classroom has a story. Every story can become better teaching. The SP Learning-Hub explores the moments that shape learning, from breakthrough successes to everyday classroom challenges. Through real teaching stories, evidence-informed practice, and creative educational design, you'll discover practical ideas for curriculum design, assessment, accessibility, AI, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), educational technology, Adobe Creative Cloud, and media production. Whether you're a teacher, lecturer, instructional designer, trainer, or lifelong learner, this space will help you create learning experiences that are engaging, inclusive, and meaningful. These resources include classroom stories, teaching strategies, tutorials, course design, and conversations that connect educational research with real practice.
Welcome to The Box of Memories, a cinematic storytelling series exploring learning in a creative and imaginative way. Set between the present and 2045, each story transforms ideas about education, creativity, technology, collaboration, and intellectual property into visual narratives. Rather than simply explaining concepts, The Box of Memories invites you to discover them through stories, objects, characters, and questions making learning something to experience, imagine, and reflect on.
Explore the foundations of intellectual property and copyright through storytelling and real-world examples. This chapter introduces key concepts such as ownership, derivative works, permissions, licensing and attribution, helping you understand how to create, use and share work responsibly while respecting the rights of others.
Episode 1
What do you think education will look like in 2045?
Would you trust an AI to teach you everything, or is there something only people can offer?
In Episode 1, When AI Replaced the Classroom, we enter a world where artificial intelligence has transformed education. Every lesson is personalised. Every learner has an AI mentor. Knowledge is available instantly, and every learning experience is tailored to the individual. Everything appears efficient and appears perfect. Yet, beneath this ideal future lies a question that every educator, learner, and parent should ask: Have we gained knowledge at the cost of human connection?This short film is not a prediction.
It is an invitation to reflect on the choices we are making today and the future we are building together.
Episode 2
But you had to give up learning with other people... Would you?
In September 14th, 2045 Education has become faster, smarter and more efficient than ever before. At least, that's what everyone believes. When a young investigator is sent to inspect the last abandoned university still standing, she expects nothing more than another forgotten building scheduled for demolition. Instead, she discovers something that challenges everything she thought she knew about learning. Hidden beneath years of dust lies a small wooden box. Inside begins a story that may change the future.
Reflection Question:
If technology could teach you everything perfectly, what part of education would you never want to lose?
Episode 3
But something we left behind?
In the year 2045, education has become perfectly personalised. Every learner has an AI tutor. Every lesson is optimised. Every answer arrives instantly. Yet somewhere along the way, something quietly disappeared. When an investigator is assigned to document the last university still standing before it is permanently closed, she discovers an old wooden box hidden beneath years of dust. Inside lies a forgotten map of the University of Possibilities. As she studies it, the empty campus begins to come alive in her imagination. Busy pathways. Open classrooms. Ideas flowing between disciplines. Students crossing courtyards. Friends gathering beneath the trees. For a brief moment, she understands that universities were never only about lectures or buildings. They were places where people found mentors, challenged ideas, discovered themselves, built friendships, and became part of something larger than themselves.
This is the beginning of The Box of Memories, a cinematic series inspired by real experiences in education, exploring what learning could become if technology enhances human connection instead of replacing it. The University of Possibilities is fictional. The stories behind it are not.
Reflection Question:
What about you? What place from your own learning journey has stayed with you... and why?
Episode 4
In The Lesson That Was Never Finished.
The investigator returns to the Box of Memories and discovers an old blue folder filled with lesson plans, handwritten notes, corrections and ideas left behind by different educators. At first, it seems like an ordinary collection of papers. But as she turns the pages, something becomes clear: these lessons were never created by one person and simply left unchanged. They evolved. Teachers questioned them, adapted them, added new ideas and passed them on. The discovery raises a bigger question about how knowledge grows through sharing and collaboration. But it also creates a dilemma. Every idea begins with someone. So when an idea is shared, adapted and transformed by others… who does it belong to?
Think about something you have created, a photograph, design, video, piece of writing or even an idea. If someone else used it, changed it or shared it, when would it stop being yours?
Reflection Question:
Who owns the idea?
Episode 5
As the investigator follows the traces left across its pages
She begins to uncover the difference between an idea and the work we create from it. Along the way, we explore intellectual property and copyright, and why recognising the people behind creative work matters. But the discovery leaves another question unanswered:
Does copyright mean we can never use someone else's work?
Reflection Question:
When is it okay to use, change or build upon something created by someone else?
Episode 6
In the previous episode of The Box of Memories, our investigator explored intellectual property and copyright and was left with another question: Does copyright mean we can never use somebody else’s work?
In Episode 6, The Ideas We Share, another discovery leads us into the world of derivative works. New creations that are based on, adapted from, or build upon existing works. A drawing can inspire a new illustration. A book can become a film. A story can be translated. Music can be rearranged. But creating something new from an existing work raises an important question: Do we have permission? This episode explores the relationship between copyright, derivative works and permission, including an important reminder: finding something online does not automatically mean it is free to use, and giving credit is not always the same as having permission. Because creativity rarely happens in isolation.
We learn from others, respond to their ideas and build upon what came before, but sharing responsibly also means respecting the people who created the original work.
Reflection Question:
Would you give someone permission to change your work and create something new from it?
Episode 7
In this episode of The Box of Memories, the investigation continues with a new clue: the rules that determine how creative work can be used, shared and adapted. Through the objects left behind, we explore copyright, permissions, licensing and Creative Commons, and discover why finding something online does not automatically mean that it is free to use.
We look at the Creative Commons licence elements — BY (Attribution), SA (ShareAlike), NC (NonCommercial) and ND (NoDerivatives) — and how they help creators communicate what others are allowed to do with their work.
Before using someone else’s work, the investigator leaves us with a simple checklist:
✓ Who created it?
✓ Where is the original source?
✓ What licence applies?
✓ Does the licence allow what I want to do?
✓ Do I need permission?
✓ How should I attribute it?
✓ Have I kept evidence of the licence or permission?
But one question remains. Teachers quote books. Students use extracts in assignments. Researchers refer to existing work. They do not ask permission for every sentence or quotation. So where is the line?
Reflection Question:
Have you ever used part of someone else’s work because you believed it was okay to use? What made you think it was allowed?
Next episode: Fair Dealing
Resume
Professional Profile
→ Download my CV in pdf (PDF, 145 kB)
I am a Learning Experience Designer, Adult Educator, and Digital Media Specialist with expertise in curriculum design, eLearning development, creative technologies, and inclusive teaching practice. My professional journey combines a background in graphic design and digital media with a strong commitment to adult, further and online education.
Having returned to education as an adult learner myself, I understand the transformative power of learning and the importance of creating supportive, accessible, and meaningful educational experiences. This perspective has shaped my teaching philosophy and strengthened my commitment to learner-centred approaches that recognise the diverse experiences, abilities, and aspirations of every learner.
Throughout my career, I have designed and delivered learning experiences across a range of educational settings, including Further Education and Training, Youthreach, online learning environments, and community-based initiatives. My work is informed by Universal Design for Learning (UDL), authentic assessment, experiential learning, and reflective practice, enabling me to create engaging learning environments that promote confidence, creativity, and lifelong learning.
Alongside teaching, I have developed expertise in instructional design, digital storytelling, multimedia production, educational technology, and curriculum development. I am particularly interested in the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning, exploring how evidence-informed practice, learner feedback, and reflective inquiry can enhance teaching effectiveness and student success.
My goal is to bridge creativity, technology, and pedagogy to design learning experiences that are accessible, innovative, and impactful.
Areas of Expertise
Curriculum Design & Instructional Design
eLearning Development
Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
Online & Blended Learning
Learning Experience Design
Adobe Creative Cloud Instruction
Multimedia Production & Video Editing
Accessibility & Inclusive Education
Learning Management Systems (Moodle & Canvas)
Project-Based Learning
Assessment & Learner Support
Digital Content Creation
HTML, CSS, Bootstrap, JavaScript, PHP, WordPress
Educational Technology Integrationn
Gamification & Interactive Learning
Creative Media Education
Professional Experience
Adobe Certified Instructor
2024 to Present
Cenit College, Naas, Ireland
Supporting adult learners nationally through online Adobe Certified Professional programmes in Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro, InDesign and Adobe Express. This role combines teaching, curriculum design, learner support, assessment design, and continuous course improvement within a self-paced online environment.
- Deliver online instruction and learner support across Adobe Certified Professional programmes in Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro, InDesign and Adobe Express.
- Design engaging and accessible learning experiences aligned with certification objectives and adult learning principles.
- Develop multimedia teaching resources, project-based assignments, and learner support materials to enhance learner engagement and confidence.
- Support diverse learners in self-paced online environments through inclusive teaching strategies, formative feedback, and differentiated instruction.
- Facilitate learner progression toward industry-recognised Adobe certification and portfolio development.
- Redesign learning activities and assessments to improve learner clarity, engagement, and practical application of skills.
Teacher of Social and Digital Media
2023 to 2024
Limerick Clare Education Traing Board, Clonroad Ennis Campus
- Delivered modules in Graphic Design and Digital Photography across Levels 4 and 5 within Further Education and Training (Year 1 and 2).
- Designed learner-centred classroom activities integrating creativity, collaboration, and industry-based design practices.
- Applied inclusive teaching approaches and UDL principles to support learners from diverse educational and cultural backgrounds.
- Developed practical assignments and portfolio-based assessments aligned with QQI learning outcomes.
- Encouraged learner confidence, creativity, and professional development through project-based learning approaches.
Digital Life Story Coordinator
2022 to 2023
Avista, Limerick, Ireland
This role was particularly significant in shaping my understanding of person-centred learning, accessibility, digital storytelling, and the relationship between technology, identity, and wellbeing. Working alongside individuals with Down syndrome, families, support staff, and researchers strengthened my commitment to inclusive and human-centred educational design.
- Supported individuals with Down syndrome who were at risk of developing dementia in creating personalised digital life stories using multimedia technologies.
- Facilitated the collection and organisation of photographs, videos, audio recordings, and personal narratives to support memory, identity, and communication.
- Delivered training and digital support to participants, families, and support staff in accessible technology use.
- Collaborated with academic researchers to support data collection and evaluate the impact of digital storytelling on wellbeing and communication.
- Applied person-centred and inclusive methodologies throughout all stages of the project.
Teacher Assistant
2022
Limerick Clare Education Traing Board, St Mary's Adult Education Education Group CLG, Limerick, Ireland
- Delivered modules in Digital Media, Internet Skills, and Graphic Design across QQI Levels 3 to 4.
- Developed differentiated lesson plans and accessible learning materials tailored to adult learners with diverse educational backgrounds and abilities.
- Applied inclusive teaching approaches, integrating active learning, collaborative activities, and digital technologies to enhance learner engagement and participation.
- Supported learners in developing practical digital, creative, and communication skills within an inclusive adult education environment.
Teacher Assistant
2022
Limerick Youth Service, Limerick, Ireland
- Delivered modules in Digital Media and Pathway to Employment (Level 4, Year 1).
- Designed learner-centred lesson plans and accessible educational resources to support youth learners with varied learning needs and experiences.
- Incorporated active learning strategies, collaborative projects, and digital tools to encourage participation, confidence, and skill development.
- Supported learners in building digital literacy, communication, and employability skills within a supportive and inclusive learning environment.
Teacher Assistant
2021
Limerick Clare Education Training Board. FET Killmallock Town Campus, Kilmallock, Ireland
- Delivered modules in Web Design, Web Authoring, Digital Media Technology, Internet Skills, Graphic Design, and Spreadsheets across QQI Levels 4–6.
- Developed differentiated lesson plans and accessible learning materials for diverse learner groups, including VTOS and Youthreach learners.
- Integrated active learning methodologies, collaborative activities, and digital technologies into classroom and practical learning environments.
- Supported learners in developing technical, creative, problem-solving, and employability skills through inclusive and learner-centred teaching practices.
Video Editor
2021
Hewitt College, Cork, Ireland
- Collaborated with the examcast.ie team to develop engaging educational video content for Junior and Leaving Certificate exam preparation.
- Produced and edited multimedia learning resources designed to support student understanding and revision.
- Applied storytelling, visual communication, and instructional design principles to educational media production.
Education
PGCert in Learning Teaching and Assessment in HE
2025 to 2026
University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
Specialising in curriculum design, assessment, reflective practice, and higher education pedagogy.
Master of Arts in eLearning Design and Development
2022 to 2023
Munster Technological University, Cork, Ireland
Specialised in instructional design, e-learning authoring, multimedia storytelling, educational games, and online learning environments.
Graduate Diploma in MEd in Adult and Further Education
2021 to 2022
Mary Immaculate College, Limerick, Ireland
The programme is recognised by the Teaching Council as a professional teaching qualification for the Further Education sector. It includes modules on the theory and practice of education and lifelong learning (psychological, philosophical, historical and sociological perspectives), teaching, learning, curriculum planning, assessment and a substantial teaching placement.
Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Interactive Digital Media
2020 to 2021
Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands, Limerick, Ireland
Specialised in digital media production, instructional design, data visualisation, entrepreneurship, and interactive technologies.
Bachelor of Science in Computing and Digital Media
2018 to 2020
Galway Mayo Institute of Technology, Galway, Ireland
Focused on multimedia production, 2D & 3D graphics, animation, dynamic web design & UX/UI development, digital marketing, video production and database technologies for multi-platform environments.
Scholarship
Educational Innovation
- Designed and evaluated innovative project-based learning approaches for Adobe certification programmes.
- Redesigned assessments using authentic assessment and UDL principles
- Developed multiple eLearning courses and educational games.
- Created teaching portfolio demonstrating evidence-informed practice and reflective scholarship.
Professional Service
- Volunteer Digital Skills Facilitator (Women's Shed)
- Irish Red Cross Volunteer
- UDL Facilitator
Certifications
Teaching Council Registration
Adult & Further Education - Route 3
Advanced Cetificate
Multimedia and Web Development - NFQ Level 6
Cetificate
Graphic Design - NFQ Level 5
Adobe Creative Educator
Leader
Adobe Creative Educator
Innovator
Adobe Certified Professional
Graphic Design & Illustration using Adobe Illustrator
Adobe Certified Professional
Digital Video using Adobe Premiere Pro
Adobe Certified Professional
Print & Digital Media Publication using Adobe InDesign
Preparing students for future essential creative skills
Adobe Education Exchange
Facilitator
Universal Design in Teaching & Learning
Psychological First Aid
for Practitioners
Generative AI in the Classroom
Adobe Education Exchange
Digital and Technical Skills
Learning Technologies
Moodle, Canvas, Google Classroom, Articulate Storyline 360, Rise, Evolve, Easygenerator
Adobe Creative Cloud
Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro, After Effects, Adobe Express, Firefly, Adobe After Errects
Web & Development
HTML, CSS, Bootstrap, JavaScript, JQuery, PHP, WordPress
Multimedia & Design
Video Production, Graphic Design, Photography, Audio Editing, Motion Graphics
Portfolio
My Work
Select a topic to learn more
- All
- Teaching Portfolio
- eLearning
- Student Work
- Videos
- Games
- Graphic Design
- Web Development

The Purpose of
This Teaching Portfolio
and Acknowledgements
Teaching Portfolio

My Transformative
Experience
Teaching Portfolio | Video Editing

Assessment and Examination
of Student Learning
Teaching Portfolio
Scholarship of
Teaching and Learning
Teaching Portfolio

Graphic Design Movements
E-Learning course
and student showcase work
Teaching Portfolio | eLearning

Online Safety Programme
E-Learning
eLearning Development
Contact
Contact Me
Got a project in mind? Let's grab a virtual coffee and chat about it.
My Location
Ireland
Social Profile
Email Me
sandrapicarra2@gmail.com
Call Me
+353 89 252 6656























