Benjamin Harwood

Learning Experience Designer

For me, the future of learning isn’t about technology alone—it’s about creating environments where powerful tools amplify our ability to imagine, collaborate, and grow. 

My Background

I’m an educator, instructional designer, and technologist with more than 25 years of experience, including work in K–12 and, more extensively, in higher education in the United States, along with five years of living and teaching in France. These varied settings—from small colleges to large universities—have shaped my view of learning as both a local practice and a global conversation. I’m especially interested in how immersive technologies, AI, and creative media can redefine what’s possible in teaching, research, and professional growth. 

My Approach & Philosophy

My work centers on designing engaging, adaptive, and measurable learning experiences that move beyond traditional models, always prioritizing human creativity and reflection. Through projects that integrate video, podcasts, extended reality (XR), and digital media, I help students, faculty, and professional communities express their ideas and identities in meaningful ways. I create multimedia storytelling experiences that foster authentic representation, voice, and agency—empowering individuals and helping organizations gain insight into emerging trends and skill needs. Increasingly, I’m developing and piloting generative AI solutions for creative work, ethical use case studies, assessment, and simulation. My approach emphasizes responsible, transparent, and ethical implementation, addressing bias, copyright, and agency in AI-powered creation. 

Outside Work

Beyond my professional life, I find joy in trekking, mountaineering, cooking, and creative projects at home.