The Overview/Introduction/Start

The Overview/Introduction/Start Here module serves as the first point of contact for learners and is foundational in setting expectations. It occurs at the beginning of the course and is crucial for orienting learners to the course structure, content, goals, and tools. This module helps establish context and gives learners an understanding of what they will achieve and how they will engage throughout the course.

 

This module is placed at the very start, before diving into the learning content. It serves as the gateway to the rest of the course. 

 

Blended Learning Instructional Design

The instructional design approach combines elements from constructivist and experiential learning theories to create a comprehensive learning experience. Each module follows a consistent structure with the following key components:

• Clear Learning Objectives: Well-defined goals to direct the learning process.

• Diverse Learning Activities: A mix of individual and group read-aloud sessions, along with hands-on activities like labs and demonstrations.

• Opportunities for Application: Engaging project work that enables learners to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts.

• Reflection and Self-Assessment: Encouraging learners to reflect on their experiences and evaluate their understanding.

• Peer Collaboration and Feedback: Fostering peer interaction to support collaborative learning and provide constructive feedback.

This balanced approach supports scaffolded learning, guiding students from basic knowledge to practical application and integration within a blended classroom setting.

 

Main Course Goals and Outcomes

The main course goals and outcomes are shared in the Start Here module under the syllabus tab and in the weekly modules.

 

Aligning Modules with Goals, Activities, and Assessments

Modules align with the goals, activities, and assessments by:

• Outlining the goal for each module

• Learning Activities that support the goals

• Learning Assessments to evaluate student learning

 

Learning Environment

The learning environment will emphasize a student-centered approach, actively involving students as central participants in their educational journey and supporting their digital literacy. This method will encourage the COVA approach to learning by giving the students the opportunities to choose what they learn and how they learn, and fostering a sense of ownership. Peer collaboration will play a significant role in this learning environment as students will often encourage and offer peer reviews and feedback in their ePortfolio discussions and submissions. This promotes the exchange of diverse perspectives and encourages teamwork while enriching their learning experience through the development of social and communication skills.

 

My Role

My role will vary depending on the context.

• Presenter: Delivering lectures or introducing new content.

• Facilitator: Encouraging group discussions, supporting learners in exploring ideas, and fostering interaction.

• Coach: Offering personalized guidance, supporting learners through problem-solving tasks or projects.

• Mentor: Providing feedback, helping learners navigate challenges, and supporting their growth and development.

My role will shift throughout the course, often depending on the learning activities and the level of learner autonomy.

 

Course Format

This course is a blended learning format with a mix of online and in class instruction, discussions and assignments. 

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Course Introduction

The course introduction and instructor introduction are both included in the Overview/Introduction module.

• In the course introduction, learners are welcomed, the course’s purpose and outcomes are outlined, and the learning platform and tools are introduced.

• I introduce myself via a written message, providing information on my background and approach to the course. This helps humanize the learning experience.

Building the learning community:

• Encouraging interaction through discussion forums, collaborative projects, and group activities.

• Creating opportunities for peer feedback and shared experiences to build relationships and enhance a sense of community.

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Collaboration Ratio

The course will have a balance of synchronous and asynchronous collaboration:

• Synchronous activities might include live sessions (e.g., Q&A, discussions), webinars, or virtual office hours to allow real-time engagement.

• Asynchronous collaboration could involve discussion boards, self-paced assignments, and peer reviews, where learners engage at their own convenience.

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To address infrastructure and system issues, we’ll:

• Ensure the course platform is accessible and mobile-friendly.

• Provide clear technical support information for troubleshooting (e.g., FAQs, contact for help).

• Offer guides or tutorials on using the course tools and systems.

• Make sure all content is accessible, with captions for videos, readable fonts, and alternative formats if necessary. 

• For learner support, regular check-ins and feedback will be provided, alongside mentoring to ensure learners stay on track and receive help when needed.