ELRC 7535E Modules 

Course Reflection

This course has been a valuable learning journey that pushed me to think more deeply about instructional design, accessibility, and the role of educational technology in shaping student learning experiences. From Module 1 through Module 5, each assignment built on the last, helping me connect theory to practice in ways that I can directly apply to my classroom.

One of the most important takeaways for me has been the role of UDL in designing meaningful learning experiences. I have always wanted to meet my students where they are, but UDL gave me a clear framework to make that vision more intentional. This upcoming school year, I will be using UDL in a hybrid sense. My in-person lessons will incorporate multiple means of engagement, representation, and expression, while my Schoology course will serve as an extension of those strategies. I am looking at my Schoology design differently now, asking how it can better meet the needs of my students, not just act as a place to post assignments.

Through the different modules, I gained skills that align with several course outcomes. CO 1 and CO 2 came into play when analyzing digital environments and designing inclusive experiences, especially when I created activities that could work for both in-person and online learners. CO 5 was especially present in collaborative elements, from building peer discussion prompts to designing branching activities that encouraged teamwork and reflection.

One transformative experience was the integration of multimedia principles in Module 5. This reinforced the importance of purposeful media selection, ensuring that each element serves a clear instructional goal. I also appreciated how the assignments consistently connected back to standards like ISTE and QM, which helped me ensure that my designs were not just creative, but also high quality and aligned to professional expectations.

Looking ahead, I plan to apply these skills by continuing to refine my hybrid learning approach. Schoology will no longer be a static repository but an interactive space with clear pathways for students to access content, collaborate, and demonstrate their understanding in multiple ways. I will also integrate tools like H5P and other interactive platforms to give students opportunities for low-stakes practice before summative assessments.

Overall, this course has made me more intentional, flexible, and strategic in my design choices. I feel more confident not only in meeting student needs but also in leading conversations about instructional design and educational technology with colleagues. The work I have done here will have a direct impact on my students’ learning and my growth as an educator.