Hi, I'm Laura Patsko. I design, deliver and evaluate learning experiences.
That means I spend my days:
- asking lots of curious and critical questions;
- observing how people learn;
- researching what works in different contexts (and how we know that it works);
- reviewing learning experiences with all these things in mind to identify strengths and make recommendations for improvement.
Alongside my learning design work, I’m also proud to work as Language Coordinator for ANKAA Project, a not-for-profit organization in Athens, Greece, that stands for equitable pathways to education and employment.
When I’m not teaching or designing learning experiences, you’ll probably find me doing some kind of crafting or exploring the city on foot with my awesome little dog, Hero.
My values
Clarity
I value clear and honest communication, and I enjoy finding sense in the complexity and nuance of life.
Inclusivity
I believe all participation is worthy. Excluding certain voices or views, on the other hand, is a sure way to limit learning and growth.
Integrity
To trust and defend the conclusions we draw, we need to think and act critically, fairly and ethically.
Empathy
One person can’t experience or know everything! To learn and live together, we must always listen to and respect each other.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why "blackbird"?
Oh, there are many reasons… I love all birds, but seem to have a special affinity for blackbirds. I’ve always found their colours, song and personality especially charming; and we have things in common which amuse me – we’re both commonly found dashing between both cities and more rural settings, and are both known for whistling all day, for example! But more than that, I’ve spent most of my life living, travelling and working all around Europe and no matter where I go, there are blackbirds. They make me feel like I’m home wherever I am. I hear their beautiful, clear, creative, melodic calls cutting through all the other noise of this busy world, and this keeps me grounded.
What's LXD?
“LXD” stands for Learning (or Learner) Experience Design. A learning experience designer (like me) is concerned with the entire process of learning, including learning materials, resources, courses, instructional methods, self-study, learner training (a.k.a. “learning to learn”), learner motivation, goals, and so on – as well as the research and principles that inform these things.
A bit of trivia – the term “LXD” was originally coined by analogy with “UXD”, or “user experience design”, which is “concerned with the entire process of acquiring and integrating a product, including aspects of branding, design, usability and function.”
How did you make the recording of blackbird song at the end of your videos?
My blackbird sting, featured at the end of videos like my voice work demo reel, is an excerpt from a recording by Marie-Lan Taÿ Pamart (XC554021), accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/554021. It’s used under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 license.
Who took your photos? They're great!
Thanks! My portrait on the homepage is by Nikos Papatheodorou. The photo of me with Hero on this page is by Yannick Vidal. They don’t have public portfolios but if you’re interested in getting in touch with them, I can always ask – just contact me.
Who designed your logo?
My super cool logo was designed by an artist and former teacher trainee of mine, Mauro de Giorgi.