About Clark
Who is Clark Quinn?
Clark Quinn, Ph.D., is the Executive Director of Quinnovation, a learning experience design consultancy. He is a recognized leader in connecting cognitive science with practical training strategies to enhance organizational learning and performance. Dr. Quinn focuses on helping organizations strategically leverage information systems to meet their learning, knowledge, and performance objectives, ensuring that learning initiatives translate into tangible results.
His expertise lies in the nuanced application of human cognition principles to the design of technology systems, augmented by his extensive business and management experience. Through Quinnovation, he advises both commercial and non-profit organizations on strategic eLearning, performance support, and robust learning experience design.
What is Clark Quinn known for?
Dr. Quinn is widely known for bridging the gap between cognitive science and its practical application in training and organizational development. He advocates for evidence-informed learning design, emphasizing meaningful practice, constructive feedback, and the cultivation of effective mental models. His work often involves debunking common myths in learning, such as the concept of "learning styles," to drive more effective and innovative organizational execution.
He has authored multiple influential books on workplace learning and innovation, though specific titles are not detailed in available sources. Through his consultancy, speaking engagements, and written works, he advises global companies on aligning their learning strategies with how individuals truly think, work, and perform.
What is Clark Quinn's background and experience?
Clark Quinn holds a Ph.D. in Psychology from the University of California, San Diego, awarded in 1989. He also earned an M.A. in Psychology in 1984 and a B.A. in Computer-Based Education in 1980, both from the same institution. This robust academic background provides the foundation for his deep understanding of human cognition and learning processes.
His extensive professional experience includes leadership roles in prominent organizations focused on educational technology and learning design. Since 2001, he has served as the Executive Director of Quinnovation, where he leads learning experience design consulting. Prior to this, he was the Director of Cognitive Systems at Knowledge Universe Interactive Studio/Knowledge Planet from 1998 to 2001, where he spearheaded the development of internet-based intelligent adaptive learning systems and consulted on cognitive design.
From 1996 to 1998, Dr. Quinn was the Director of Education Technology at the Access Australia Cooperative Multimedia Centre, overseeing educational technology research and development and managing learning and usability evaluation services. He also served as the Director of User Experience at Extempo Systems and as Multimedia Manager for Open Net Pty Ltd, gaining diverse experience in various facets of learning and technology. Additionally, he has provided independent consulting services in computer program design, statistical consulting, and career counseling since 1983.
Beyond Quinnovation, Dr. Quinn contributes to the broader learning and development community. He serves as Editor-In-Chief for LDA Press, a publisher focusing on evidence-informed manuscripts for L&D professionals. He is also the Co-Organizer of the Learning Development Accelerator, an organization promoting evidence-informed approaches to L&D, and an Advisor to Elevator 9, providing learning science guidance on platform design.
What topics does Clark Quinn speak and write about?
Dr. Quinn's speaking engagements and written works cover a broad spectrum of topics related to learning science, instructional technology, and organizational performance. He frequently addresses areas such as evidence-informed learning design, the strategic application of AI in workplace learning, performance support, and the effective use of educational games and mobile learning applications.
He has been featured on various podcasts, discussing subjects like "The Science of Engagement," where he delves into learning science, motivation, emotion, practice, and feedback in learning design. His discussions also encompass topics such as job aids, skill-building for workplace impact, and performance consulting to address learning gaps. Dr. Quinn is a frequent speaker and consultant, sharing his insights on how to foster deeper learner engagement through effective practice, feedback mechanisms, and strategic game design principles.
How does Clark Quinn contribute to the Best Practice Institute?
Clark Quinn has contributed his expertise to the Best Practice Institute through engagements such as the webinar "From Execution to Innovation: Strategically Enhancing Organizational Learning Through Technology." In this capacity, he has shared his insights on how organizations can enhance their competitive edge by improving execution and fostering innovation through advanced learning technologies.
His involvement with the Best Practice Institute underscores his commitment to advancing organizational learning by providing strategic guidance on leveraging technology to meet evolving learning and performance needs within the workplace. While not a faculty member, his contributions align with BPI's mission to disseminate best practices in organizational development and human capital management.