Episode #86. Saturday December 11, 2021, 11:30 pm Eastern

Abstract: We’ve had many shows devoted to K-12 and higher education environments; but how is learning changing in the workplace? In Episode #86, the crew at Silver Lining for Learning will have the opportunity to hear from two professionals and their journeys from the early stage of their careers to their current work at one the big four, PwC. Specifically, we will take a virtual tour to the newly established “Experience Center” at PwC in Cyprus, an innovation and entrepreneurship hub, where Dr Maria Solomou works. At the Experience Center, she designs and develops interactive, participatory experiences with the application of cutting-edge technologies, aiming at immersing users in the optimal possible experiences. Learn about the underlying philosophy of this state-of-the-art center as well as the array of technologies and spaces now available to develop human-centric solutions and improve user experiences in physical and virtual settings. Also in this episode, Dr. Theano Yerasimou will discuss how she manages large-scale training projects and programs for clients across the globe and in various industries. Both are involved in designing and developing highly interactive interventions in a wide array of modalities (i.e., blended, face-to-face, virtual (live), self-paced eLearning, microlearning, mobile learning, gamified, etc.). Maria and Theano will discuss their growth from experience designers, trainers, and researchers in their current occupation at PwC Cyprus. They will reflect on key moments in their professional journeys around positioning participants as active agents of change within technology-enhanced learning. More about our guests after the video.

Maria Solomou is an Experience Design, Consulting and Organizational Development professional currently working at PwC’s Experience Center in Cyprus. She has a diverse background in game design, elearning, instructional design, training and development, learning organizations, entrepreneurship, and management. Maria designs and develops interactive, participatory experiences with the application of cutting-edge technologies, seeking to advance creative and critical thinking, facilitate digital transformation and enhance performance in organizations. She has a master’s degree in Education, Technology, and Society from the University of Bristol and another master’s as well as a Ph.D. in Learning Sciences and Instructional Systems Technology from Indiana University. Check out the Experience Center at PwC in Cyprus (https://www.pwc.com.cy/en/experience-center.html). Maria can be reached at msolomou@mariasolomou.com.

Theano Yerasimou is a consultant in the People & Organisation practice at PwC in Cyprus. She has 16 years of experience as a Learning & Development expert, with expertise in Instructional Design, eLearning, and Learning Technologies. As a Learning Experience Designer (LXD), Theano focuses on current methodologies and technology tools to design relevant and meaningful experiences for various and diverse audiences. She has been managing large-scale training projects and programmes for clients across the globe and in various industries, including pharmaceutical and healthcare, financial services, marine/shipping, product development (engineering), and education. She is experienced in the design and development of highly interactive training interventions in various modes (blended, face-to-face, virtual (live), self-paced eLearning, microlearning, mobile learning, and gamification). She has also facilitated numerous face-to-face and virtual workshops on a number of topics. She can be contacted at Theano Yerasimou theanoy@gmail.com.