Instructional Design: Digital Media, New Tools and Technology from edX

Instructional designers today have a tremendous number of tools and resources available to them to create highly engaging courses. Social media, digital video, and freely available online instructional resources and applications connect and engage people in new, and exciting ways. When creating online learning experiences, instructional designers integrate and infuse these digital tools and digital content in ways that engage and connect learners to course content.

In the third course in the Instructional Design and Technology MicroMasters Program, you will explore the design, development, and integration of digital media to enhance the learning experience.

Choosing instructional materials for a course may seem like a simple step, but in fact, there are many important aspects of online learning experience development that are important to consider, such as content creation, copyright and creative commons, accessibility testing, and visual and web design techniques.

Course topics include media and visual design, video, screencasting, animation, storyboarding, authoring tools for interactive learning, as well as audio in instructional design.

This course is part of the Instructional Design and Technology MicroMaster’s program from UMGC. Upon completion of the program and receipt of the verified MicroMaster’s certificate, learners may then transition into the full UMGC Master’s Program in Learning Design and Technology. See the MicroMasters program page for more information.

What you'll learn

Integrate visual design principles into digital text-based media
Apply image editing and publishing practices
Produce effective video and screencasting materials
Design an interactive learning module using an authoring tool
Implement accessibility strategies to develop inclusive, technology-enhanced learning experiences
Create a variety of digital learning objects, including images, videos, screencasts, audio, and interactives, to enhance an online minicourse
Build an Instructional Design portfolio to showcase knowledge of digital media

What's inside

Learning objectives

Integrate visual design principles into digital text-based media
Apply image editing and publishing practices
Produce effective video and screencasting materials
Design an interactive learning module using an authoring tool

Implement accessibility strategies to develop inclusive, technology-enhanced learning experiences
Create a variety of digital learning objects, including images, videos, screencasts, audio, and interactives, to enhance an online minicourse
Build an instructional design portfolio to showcase knowledge of digital media

Integrate visual design principles into digital text-based media
Apply image editing and publishing practices
Produce effective video and screencasting materials
Design an interactive learning module using an authoring tool
Implement accessibility strategies to develop inclusive, technology-enhanced learning experiences
Create a variety of digital learning objects, including images, videos, screencasts, audio, and interactives, to enhance an online minicourse
Build an instructional design portfolio to showcase knowledge of digital media

Syllabus

Week 1: Digital Media Introduction Week 2: Digital Text & Visual Design Week 3: Digital Images Week 4: Video Tools & Accessibility Requirements Week 5: Screencast & Animation Videos Week 6: Storyboards Week 7: Author Tools for Interactive Learning Week 8: Audio for e-Learning & Signature Assignment Submission

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Covers the key concepts of digital media for e-learning, providing foundational skills to enhance online learning experiences

Strengthens an existing foundation for intermediate learners seeking to expand their knowledge and skills in digital media for e-learning

Provides hands-on opportunities to create digital learning objects, such as videos, images, and interactive modules, allowing learners to apply their knowledge practically

Offers a comprehensive study of digital media tools and techniques, covering visual design, video production, audio editing, and authoring tools

Teaches accessibility strategies, ensuring that digital learning materials are inclusive and cater to diverse learner needs

Builds a strong foundation for designing and developing engaging and effective online learning experiences

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Instructional Design: Digital Media, New Tools and Technology with these activities:

Review lecture notes, textbook readings, and assignments

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Reinforce understanding by reviewing core course materials.

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Summarize key concepts from lecture notes
Annotate textbook readings
Review past assignments and quizzes to identify areas for improvement

Brush up on graphic design principles

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Revisit essential design concepts to reinforce foundational knowledge.

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Review visual design principles (e.g., color theory, typography, layout)
Practice applying these principles to simple design projects

Complete image editing practice exercises

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Gain proficiency in image editing skills through hands-on practice.

Browse courses on Image Editing

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Use image editing software to crop, adjust, and enhance images
Experiment with different tools and effects

Four other activities

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Explore advanced techniques for creating e-learning courses

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Enhance your skills by learning industry best practices and innovative approaches.

Browse courses on Course Design

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Identify reputable e-learning resources and tutorials
Follow step-by-step guides to master new tools and techniques

Engage in peer critique of digital media projects

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Receive constructive feedback and exchange ideas to improve work quality.

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Share your digital media projects (e.g., videos, images, infographics)
Provide feedback on each other's work
Discuss areas for improvement and innovation

Develop an interactive video tutorial

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Apply course concepts in a practical setting by creating a compelling learning resource.

Browse courses on Video Production

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Choose a topic and create a storyboard
Record and edit video content
Add interactive elements (e.g., quizzes, simulations)

Design a comprehensive media package for a course module

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Apply the full range of skills acquired to create a high-impact learning resource.

Browse courses on Instructional Design

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Determine the learning objectives for the module
Develop a storyboard or outline for the media package
Create and integrate various digital media elements (e.g., videos, images, animations)

Career center

Learners who complete Instructional Design: Digital Media, New Tools and Technology will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Corporate Trainer

Corporate Trainers provide training and development to employees within a company or organization. They work with employees to identify their training needs and develop programs that meet those needs. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be a successful Corporate Trainer. You will learn how to design and develop digital media, including videos, screencasts, and interactive learning modules. You will also learn how to implement accessibility strategies to ensure that your training programs are inclusive and meet the needs of all learners.

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Instructional Designer

Instructional Designers plan, develop, and deliver instructional materials and programs. They use their knowledge of learning theory and instructional design principles to create effective and engaging learning experiences. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be a successful Instructional Designer. You will learn how to design and develop digital media, including videos, screencasts, and interactive learning modules. You will also learn how to implement accessibility strategies to ensure that your learning materials are inclusive and meet the needs of all learners.

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Learning and Development Manager

Learning and Development Managers are responsible for planning, developing, and delivering training programs for employees. They work with other departments to identify training needs and develop programs that meet those needs. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be a successful Learning and Development Manager. You will learn how to design and develop digital media, including videos, screencasts, and interactive learning modules. You will also learn how to implement accessibility strategies to ensure that your training programs are inclusive and meet the needs of all learners.

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Curriculum Developer

Curriculum Developers are responsible for planning, developing, and evaluating curriculum for schools and other educational institutions. They work with teachers and other stakeholders to identify learning needs and develop curriculum that meets those needs. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be a successful Curriculum Developer. You will learn how to design and develop digital media, including videos, screencasts, and interactive learning modules. You will also learn how to implement accessibility strategies to ensure that your curriculum is inclusive and meets the needs of all learners.

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Media Producer

Media Producers plan, develop, and produce media content for a variety of purposes. They work with clients to identify their needs and develop content that meets those needs. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be a successful Media Producer. You will learn how to design and develop digital media, including videos, screencasts, and interactive learning modules. You will also learn how to implement accessibility strategies to ensure that your work is inclusive and meets the needs of all audiences.

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Educational Consultant

Educational Consultants provide advice and guidance to schools and other educational institutions on a variety of educational issues. They work with schools to identify and address challenges, and to develop and implement strategies for improvement. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be a successful Educational Consultant. You will learn how to design and develop digital media, including videos, screencasts, and interactive learning modules. You will also learn how to implement accessibility strategies to ensure that your work is inclusive and meets the needs of all learners.

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Interactive Media Designer

Interactive Media Designers create interactive media experiences using a variety of media, including video, audio, and text. They work with clients to identify their needs and develop experiences that meet those needs. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be a successful Interactive Media Designer. You will learn how to design and develop interactive media experiences. You will also learn how to implement accessibility strategies to ensure that your work is inclusive and meets the needs of all users.

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Video Editor

Video Editors edit video footage to create a cohesive and polished product. They work with directors, producers, and other stakeholders to ensure that the final product meets the desired vision. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be a successful Video Editor. You will learn how to use video editing software to create and edit videos. You will also learn how to implement accessibility strategies to ensure that your work is inclusive and meets the needs of all audiences.

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Instructional Technologist

Instructional Technologists use their knowledge of technology to design, develop, and deliver effective learning experiences. They work with educators to identify and use technology to meet the needs of learners. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be a successful Instructional Technologist. You will learn how to design and develop digital media, including videos, screencasts, and interactive learning modules. You will also learn how to implement accessibility strategies to ensure that your work is inclusive and meets the needs of all learners.

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Web Designer

Web Designers create and design websites. They work with clients to identify their needs and develop websites that meet those needs. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be a successful Web Designer. You will learn how to use web design software to create and design websites. You will also learn how to implement accessibility strategies to ensure that your work is inclusive and meets the needs of all users.

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Graphic designer

Graphic Designers create visual content for a variety of purposes, including print, web, and social media. They work with clients to identify their needs and develop designs that meet those needs. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be a successful Graphic Designer. You will learn how to use design software to create visual content. You will also learn how to implement accessibility strategies to ensure that your work is inclusive and meets the needs of all audiences.

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E-Learning Developer

E-Learning Developers design and develop online learning experiences. They work with clients to identify their needs and develop experiences that meet those needs. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be a successful E-Learning Developer. You will learn how to design and develop online learning experiences. You will also learn how to implement accessibility strategies to ensure that your work is inclusive and meets the needs of all learners.

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Education Technology Specialist

Education Technology Specialists use their knowledge of technology to support teaching and learning. They work with educators to identify and use technology to meet the needs of learners. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be a successful Education Technology Specialist. You will learn how to use technology to design and deliver effective learning experiences. You will also learn how to implement accessibility strategies to ensure that your work is inclusive and meets the needs of all learners.

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Assistive Technology Specialist

Assistive Technology Specialists help people with disabilities use technology to access education, employment, and other opportunities. They work with individuals and organizations to identify and use assistive technology to meet their needs. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be a successful Assistive Technology Specialist. You will learn how to use assistive technology to support people with disabilities. You will also learn how to implement accessibility strategies to ensure that your work is inclusive and meets the needs of all learners.

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Accessibility Specialist

Accessibility Specialists help organizations make their products and services accessible to people with disabilities. They work with organizations to identify and remove barriers to access. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be a successful Accessibility Specialist. You will learn how to identify and remove barriers to access. You will also learn how to implement accessibility strategies to ensure that your work is inclusive and meets the needs of all users.

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