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February 4, 2026
Hello Reader,
I hope you are well, and if you are living in the frozen lands, that you are at least partially dug out.
If you're concerned about how AI will affect your future role, I hope my conversation with Josh Cavalier will help you make sense of it. There is still uncertainty, but some trends are emerging that will help you prepare.
The second article explores several ways to surface your tacit knowledge, which arises from your experience but is difficult to articulate. This is important when helping SMEs share what they know, when you need to ensure a smooth transition between roles, and when you want to share your own tacit knowledge.
If you're struggling with infographics that don’t quite work, check out the final article. It offers evidence-based guidelines for designing information graphics that reduce cognitive effort and support learning.
Are you attending any virtual events this winter? My schedule is at the end of the newsletter.
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Now on to the articles and podcast.
- The Evolution of L&D in an AI-Powered World
In this conversation with Josh Cavalier, we have an honest discussion about how AI is and will affect our roles and impact in the learning industry.
- Strategies for Tacit Knowledge Transfer
If it is difficult to transfer tacit knowledge through language, then how can it be passed on? Here are six proven strategies for inferring and acquiring tacit knowledge.
- 21 Ways to Improve Your Infographics
Why do some infographics feel instantly clear while others feel oddly exhausting? This article breaks down the design principles that make information graphics.
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Now, on to the resources for this month. |
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Are You Ready to Future-Proof Your L&D Career?
AI is changing how learning work gets done. L&D Practitioners in an AI-Powered World offers a candid look at how learning professionals are adapting and what that means for their careers. Download the eBook for a candid look at the unique career paths of L&D professionals. |
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GOOD FINDS
Before downloading files, please be sure to check that they are virus and spam-free. Note that freebies often require some form of registration.
FEED YOUR MIND
MULTIMEDIA
- Text Behind Image Online: Upload an image and position text behind it so it can still be read. (Thanks to Bianca Woods)
- Enhancor: Fix plastic-looking AI skin by making it look authentic in your images
- Flora: Collection of AI 50+ tools for creative work. Could save costs of having multiple licenses. Free trial.
- Adobe Firefly: Choose your gen AI model and create "photorealistic images"
COOL TOOLS
- Fillout: Application for creating forms with a free plan
- TickTick: Organizing app with calendar, to-do list, notes, etc. at a reasonable price, plus free plan
- Buttondown: Newsletter creation tool that's a bit less expensive than other platforms
- Strater: AI study tool that tranforms videos, PDFs, and articles into study materials
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WAYS TO GROW YOUR SKILLS, VISIBILITY, AND ADVANCE YOUR CAREER
Thoughtful programs and courses to help you build skills, stay current, and move your career forward.
STAND OUT AS A TRUSTED AUTHORITY
For experienced learning professionals ready to be known for their expertise.
A small-group coaching program focused on strategic visibility, thought leadership, and attracting meaningful opportunities while serving others. The January cohort is sold out. The next one starts in July. Get notified when the next cohort opens. MASTERING INSTRUCTIONAL DESIGN
For new and seasoned instructional designers who want to sharpen skills and stay current.
A professional learning community with monthly live sessions, 15+ self-paced courses, and 50+ expert recordings covering instructional design, multimedia, and learning strategy. Learn what you need, when you need it. Explore the community with one month free. An 8-lesson email course on overcoming visibility barriers, contributing with confidence, and building a sustainable visibility plan. Lessons arrive every few days to support steady momentum without overwhelm. Start the free course. BREAKING INTO INSTRUCTIONAL DESIGN (FREE EMAIL COURSE)
For people exploring or transitioning into instructional design.
A 12-lesson introduction to the field, covering career paths, responsibilities, networking, and salary ranges. Delivered over six weeks or available immediately as an eBook for purchase. Start the free course. Not sure where to start?
- Exploring an ID career → Breaking Into Instructional Design
- Building or refreshing skills → Mastering Instructional Design
- Sharing expertise more intentionally → Stand Out as a Trusted Authority
- At any stage: Elevate Your Profile and Visibility (free email course)
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MY UPCOMING SCHEDULE: JOIN ME IF YOU CAN!
Crafting Learning Experiences with Design Thinking
- MnISPI
- February 20, 2026
- 1:00-2:00PM EST (GMT-5)
- Teams Link
- Meeting ID: 219 195 691 147 11 Passcode: QQ7BX3J7
Writing with AI Assistance
- IDIOC (Instructional Designers in Offices Drinking Coffee)
- Wednesday, February 25, 2026
- 10:00am EST (GMT-5)
- Subscribe to their videocast for more information
The Power of Visuals: How to Enhance Learning through Effective Design (Panel Discussion)
- U Mass Amherst: IDEAS Seminar
- Thursday, February 26, 2026
- 2:00-3:30PM EST (GMT-5)
- Register Here
Creating the Career You Want (Panel Discussion)
- ELB Learning Panel Discussion
- Thursday, March 19, 2026
- 1:00PM EDT (GMT-4)
- More information coming
Cheers,
Connie
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