Module: EDU4111-20 Digital Learning Design

Level: 4

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: TBC

Module Tutor Contact Details: TBC

1. Brief description and aims of module:

Learning design refers to the planning process for designing instructional events. It is the systematic approach to course development that involves an iterative process of ongoing evaluation and feedback. The aims of the process are to create engaging and effective educational material that combines "design processes" and "problem-solving processes".

As such, learning design is the foundation of all effective learning environments and it is essential that all learning technologists understand the founding principles of the field. Learning design centres on the learner’s experience of education. This module aims to introduce you to the literature on of digital learning and its implications for course and activity design. In this module, you will explore design models as well as the infrastructure issues important in the design, development and delivery of online courses.

This module will cover both theory and practice of design. You will have opportunities to evaluate various theories and approaches to learning design at different scales.

2.Outline syllabus

• Introduction to Learning Design
• The interplay between learners, learning environments and learning outcomes
• Constructive alignment
• The development of learning design models
• Common weaknesses in digital educational design
• How learning design theory supports quality educational outcomes
• Understanding digital learning contexts – designing with digital resources and technologies

3.Teaching and learning activities

Lectures highlighting key theories and principles of learning design. Seminars. Practical workshops.

Online activities (including collaborative tasks). Tutorials and open session.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW
• Description: Group project and presentation (2000 words equivalent)
• % Weighting: 50%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW
• Description: Production of a digital learning resource (2000 words equivalent)
• % Weighting: 50%