jmichin

About the Institute
The UNC Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute (FPG) is a multidisciplinary research institute focused on transforming children’s lives through innovation in research, practice, and policy. FPG works across education, health, disability, and early childhood systems to ensure research meaningfully informs real‑world practice and decision‑making.

FPG Website

My Role at FPG
In my role at FPG, I support the institute’s mission by working at the intersection of technology, accessibility, content, and collaboration. My work spans public‑facing websites, internal systems, instructional materials, and professional learning resources.

Rather than focusing on a single project, my role involves improving how information is designed, delivered, and maintained across teams and initiatives.

Areas of Work
Web Content & UX

• Support public‑facing websites that translate research into accessible, usable content
• Improve information architecture and navigation for diverse audiences
• Balance institutional requirements with usability and clarity

Accessibility & Inclusive Design

• Apply accessibility best practices across web and presentation materials
• Support compliance with ADA and Section 508 standards
• Develop guidance and training to help non‑technical staff create accessible content

Instructional & Professional Learning Support

• Contribute to the design of online learning resources and training materials
• Focus on reducing cognitive load and supporting real‑world use by educators and practitioners

Collaboration & Process Improvement

• Translate technical requirements into practical guidance
• Work across research, communications, and technical teams
• Help make workflows clearer and more sustainable

Selected Examples of Work

• Web and accessibility support for FPG initiatives and centers
• Design and UX consultation for online learning and dissemination tools
• Development of accessibility guidance and training for conference presenters
• Ongoing support for content updates, migrations, and quality assurance

[add images]

Reflection
Working at FPG has shaped how I think about technology not as a standalone solution, but as part of a broader system that includes people, processes, and purpose. This role has reinforced my interest in human‑centered design, accessibility‑first thinking, and supporting organizations as they translate research into meaningful, inclusive practice.