Why NextThought Studios?

LEARNING.

About Us

The NextThought Studios Team specializes in creating learning video that adheres to research-based practices for optimizing information acquisition and recall. We believe each video is a unique learning environment that requires the right balance of narrative, visual, and audio inputs to achieve specified learning goals. We begin the process by mapping project learning goals using a custom, visual learning language. We then integrate the overall project vision with the right content strategies and technologies to ensure learning success. The NextThought Studios Team blends decades of professional development and curriculum design expertise with a deep commitment to instructional innovation.

Learning Environment Modeling

At NextThought, we use a custom visual tool called Learning Environment Modeling (LEM) for all our projects. LEM allows us to design learning environments built on the scientific foundations of cognitive learning theory. It helps us take what seems to be an overwhelming process – designing interesting, instructionally sound videos – and makes it as simple as stacking building blocks. The resulting project models, or LEMs, serve as blueprints for building successful learning videos, and can also be used as evaluation processes to improve insights and make better decisions. With its innovative visual toolbox, LEM provides a shared language that ensures the final product match the project vision and goals.

WHO.

THE PLAYBOOK TEAM

Jae Strickland headshot

Jae Strickland

  • Title: Head of Learning Design and Education

  • Degrees: Ph.D. in Educational Studies, Educational Leadership and Higher Education; Specialization in Educational Administration and Supervision; Master of Education, Educational Leadership; Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education

  • Experience: Jae started her career in education as a public school teacher, instructional coach, and elementary principal. During her tenure as a principal, she implemented numerous successful programs that served as a catalyst for student success and promoted family and community engagement.  She also spent two years working at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln conducting research and co-teaching classes in the Educational Administration Department. Jae currently serves as Head of Learning Design and Education for NextThought, where she leads a talented team in creating innovative and successful learning environments that foster high levels of engagement.

    Jae continues to be a strong advocate for schools and stays active in researching and promoting school, family, and community partnerships in urban, Title 1 Elementary Schools.

  • Why is learning important to you? Education is the pathway that leads to understanding. It awakens who we are; it enables us to realize our greatest dreams, and empowers us to change the world.

  • Favorite things:  Spending time with my family, exercising, learning new things, watching and attending sporting events

Janelle Bevan headshot

Janelle Bevan

  • Title: Head of NextThought Studios

  • DegreesMaster of Arts in Journalism, Video Producing and Media Management // Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, Broadcasting and Electronic Media

  • Experience:  Janelle has worked on a vast number of projects, ranging from corporate commercials to long-form documentaries. She served as the graduate assistant to the Creative Media department head at the University of Oklahoma for two years while completing her Master’s in Video Producing and Media Management. She has worked with the Broadcast Education Association and acted as their Festival Producer for the 2015 awards show in Las Vegas. Janelle is six-time Telly Award and Emmy winner.

  • Why learning is important to you? Knowledge pushes new perspectives, engages conversation, and opens the doors for success. Learning brings happiness, boosts confidence, and transforms us socially, physically, and mentally.

  • Favorite things: Lens Flares, zombies, coffee mugs, scooter rides in the studio, having the ability to elicit emotions through moving pictures and create something that has never been imagined before.