Degree(s)
M.A., University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point; B.A, University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee
Biography
Amanda Ferrante’s instructional design journey has taken her on a diverse path in both the private and public sectors. Amanda supports the UW-Madison teaching and learning community through engaging and inclusive course design. Amanda creates learning experiences for a variety of disciplines and modalities. Most notably, she leads the course design for the Online Undergraduate Degree program initiative. Amanda earned her master‘s degree from UW-Stevens Point, where her research focused on gender identities and communication in our society‘s infrastructure. Amanda began her learning and development career after graduate school as an associate professor teaching gender and communication studies for UW System. She then joined the private sector where she created and delivered training for enterprise-level performance, coaching, and employee development. Amanda gets the most joy from connecting with colleagues to discuss ways to enhance experiences for all learners. She has presented her findings and experiences at several national conferences, most recently discussing scenario-based learning strategies at the Florida Innovation Summit. Amanda actively participates in diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice groups on campus. These values inform her work and interactions with colleagues and partners. Outside work, Amanda practices self-care by spending time with others, gardening, exploring Wisconsin’s beautiful nature, and cycling.