Course Design
In this branch, we look at the principles and practices that underpin the development of effective academic courses. The Foundations section includes the key concepts such as determining the course’s learning outcomes, designing assessments and assignments, selecting appropriate content, and structuring the overall learning experience. We then explore learner-centred design as a specific set of principles that are associated with improved student engagement and outcomes. Finally, we look at obtaining and interpreting data and feedback to continuously improvement the design of our courses.
Foundations of Course Design
Explore the fundamental principles and theories that underpin effective course design, providing a solid groundwork for educational excellence. Explore our courses on backward design to gain insights into the alignment of learning outcomes, assessments, and course content. Discover practical strategies for enhancing students’ learning skills in the Helping Students Learn How to Learn course, which will provide you with actionable insights that can be seamlessly integrated into your course from day one.
A strong grasp of these foundations enables educators to adapt to evolving educational landscapes, integrating innovative methodologies and catering to the diverse needs of students for a transformative and enriching learning experience.
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Learner-Centered Design
Embrace the concept of learner-centered design, where the focus is on meeting the needs and preferences of the students to create a more personalised and effective learning experience.
Gain practical insights into implementing learner-centered approaches in course design and creating syllabi that resonate with learners with Creating a Learner-Centered Syllabus and Introduction to Person-Centered Education led by Erik Blair and Introduction To A Pedagogy Of Kindness courses. Learn how to foster a growth mindset among students and faculty, promoting continuous learning and development with Promoting Growth-Minded Students and Faculty webinar recording. Discover how to design impactful programs that engage and support students in their first year of college with Creating Engaging First-Year Experience Programs course.
Embracing learner-centered design principles through these resources empowers educators to create a more engaging, personalised, and effective learning environment for students.
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Continuous Improvement and Reflective Practices
Course design doesn’t end and then delivery begins. As you teach your course, you’ll find ways it can be enhanced and improved. Here we look at what we can do as educators to gather student feedback and data and how to act on it to create better, more engaging learning experiences.
