|
COURSE OPENS: January 5, 2026
What if digital learning could help institutions build for access, opportunity, and belonging for everyone—not just the students who were already best served?
Introduction to Digital Learning is a self-paced, asynchronous professional learning course that reframes digital learning as an ecosystem rather than a set of tools. Grounded in research on online learning, instructional design, and student success, the course weaves together short readings, practice-based vignettes, and reflective activities that foreground students’ lived experiences across modalities.
Participants examine how culture, policy, infrastructure, and support structures shape digital learning at their institution, and surface the tensions between promise and practice. Each module invites them to look at their own courses, programs, or units with fresh eyes, identifying where design, communication, and support practices can open more doors for students. The course culminates in a concise Digital Learning Action Plan that names concrete changes, partnerships, and next steps for expanding access and removing barriers in their local context.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:
- Define digital learning and distinguish it from related concepts such as modality, delivery method, and technology adoption.
- Analyze how structural factors (e.g., policies, resource allocation, student support services, infrastructure) shape learners’ access, engagement, and outcomes in digital environments.
- Evaluate examples of digital courses, programs, or initiatives using evidence-informed criteria focused on access, belonging, and student success.
- Design or revise at least one element of their own digital learning practice (such as a learning activity, communication plan, or assessment) to improve inclusion, engagement, or clarity.
- Develop a concise Digital Learning Action Plan that identifies specific changes, partnerships, or professional learning steps to strengthen access and opportunity in digital learning within their local context.
SERVICE DELIVERABLES
- Access to a six-module, self-paced eLearning course (plus orientation) focused on digital learning ecosystems in higher education.
- Applied reflective activities and short case vignettes to analyze local digital learning practices.
- Downloadable checklists and guides (e.g., accessibility and inclusion checklist, engagement and belonging checklist, feedback strategy examples, ethical scenarios handout, Digital Learning Action Plan guide).
- A customizable Digital Learning Action Plan template to support institutional or unit-level follow-up.
INTENDED AUDIENCE
Faculty and instructional support staff
SERVICE TYPE
SERVICE MODEL
CONTACT HOURS
0 required contact hours
TIME ON TASK
- Approximately 10–12 hours total (orientation + six modules).
- Typical pacing: 3–5 hours per week over 2–3 weeks, or concentrated into a shorter intensive schedule.
|
