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Dr. Adam Stepan

This class is designed for teaching and learning professionals, program directors, professors and others interested in implementing digital education programs at their institutions.

It includes an overview of the history of digital education initiatives, suggestions on managing and digital education projects, and guides to the basics of blended learning, backwards course design, class filming, zoom use, and digital class delivery.

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This class is designed for teaching and learning professionals, program directors, professors and others interested in implementing digital education programs at their institutions.

It includes an overview of the history of digital education initiatives, suggestions on managing and digital education projects, and guides to the basics of blended learning, backwards course design, class filming, zoom use, and digital class delivery.

This course builds on examples and best practices from Columbia University and peer institutions around the world, and draws on the more than 50 interviews conducted in the research of the Leveling the Learning Curve book project.

It also shares insights, tips, and guides from leaders of top digital education programs at leading universities around the world such as Stanford, Penn, ASU, Dartmouth, Georgia Tech, UC Berkeley and many others, as well as leaders from the Digital Education divisions of the World Bank, UNDP, and PBS Learning Media.

No prerequisite experience with digital education tools is required to be successful in this course. All you need is basic computer operation skills. The course utilizes presentation tools such as PowerPoint, video conferencing software Zoom and Panopto, and Canvas LMS. DIY tools such as ring light, microphone, webcam, and green screen are introduced but not required.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Module 1: Creating the New Connected University
This module covers the concept of a connected university, how to lead digital transformation in education, the competencies needed to make digital education work, and how to approach program and course design in networked learning.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Suitable for teaching and learning experts, such as program directors and instructors, seeking to leverage digital tools
Provides hands-on guidance for creating engaging blended learning experiences
Covers current best practices in digital education from leading organizations
Applicable for individuals and institutions aiming to enhance their digital learning capabilities

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Reviews summary

Blended learning for education professionals

According to students, this course offers a solid and comprehensive foundation for teaching and learning professionals seeking to implement digital education programs. Learners frequently appreciate the practical strategies and real-world examples, particularly from Columbia University and other leading institutions, which add significant credibility. The instructor's clear explanations and the well-structured modules are consistently highlighted. While it provides valuable insights for designing and delivering blended learning, some experienced learners or those seeking advanced technical how-tos may find certain sections a bit theoretical or basic, and some technology-specific examples may benefit from updates. Overall, it is considered highly relevant for current educational challenges.
Praised for clear explanations and logical course flow.
"The instructor explains complex ideas clearly and provides excellent examples."
"The instructor's passion for digital education shone through every lecture."
"The course is well-structured and easy to follow."
Offers a comprehensive and well-structured introduction.
"A good overview for educators new to blended learning concepts."
"The content is comprehensive, covering everything from design to delivery."
"Solid course for understanding the foundations of blended learning. The depth is appropriate for a toolkit."
Provides actionable methods and real-world examples.
"This course was exactly what I needed to transition my traditional classroom into a blended format. The 'backwards design' module was particularly insightful, providing practical strategies."
"I particularly enjoyed the practical advice on engaging students in 'high flex' environments."
"I appreciated the focus on practical application in my educational setting."
Some tech examples may feel dated or specific to Columbia.
"I would have liked more specific tools beyond Canvas and Panopto."
"Some parts felt slightly outdated, especially for someone already working with modern LMS systems."
"The focus on Columbia's specific tools was a bit limiting if you don't use them."
Beneficial for new learners, less for seasoned professionals.
"This course is good for absolute beginners, but as an experienced instructional designer, I didn't find much new here."
"I was hoping for more hands-on practical application and less theoretical discussion; it felt more suited for administrators than active educators looking for cutting-edge tools."
"It rehashed a lot of what I already knew from professional development."

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 Blended Learning Toolkit with these activities:
Develop a Course Trailer Video
Create a compelling video that promotes your digital course and highlights its value to potential students.
Browse courses on Marketing
Show steps
  • Write a script for the video
  • Film and edit the video
  • Upload the video to YouTube or other platforms
  • Share the video on social media and other channels
Read 'Teaching Online: A Practical Guide' by Susan Ko
Gain practical advice and guidance on how to effectively design, deliver, and evaluate online courses.
Show steps
  • Read the book's chapters on course design and development
  • Summarize the key principles and strategies discussed
  • Identify areas where you can apply the book's insights to your own teaching
Follow a Tutorial on Zoom Classroom Management
Gain hands-on experience with using Zoom's features for managing online classes, including breakout rooms, polling, and screen sharing.
Browse courses on Zoom
Show steps
  • Find a suitable tutorial on YouTube or other platforms
  • Follow the tutorial and complete the exercises
  • Practice using the Zoom features covered in the tutorial in your own online sessions
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Design a Blended Learning Module
Create a detailed design for a blended learning module, incorporating both online and face-to-face elements.
Browse courses on Blended Learning
Show steps
  • Define the learning objectives for the module
  • Select appropriate online and face-to-face activities
  • Develop a schedule for the module
  • Plan for assessment and feedback
Attend a Webinar on Digital Education Best Practices
Gain insights from experts in the field of digital education and learn about the latest strategies and technologies for effective online learning.
Browse courses on Digital Education
Show steps
  • Identify and register for a relevant webinar
  • Attend the webinar and take notes on key points
  • Reflect on the information presented and consider how to apply it to your own teaching
Develop an Instructional Course Design Plan
Develop a comprehensive plan for designing and delivering a digital course, including learning objectives, assessment strategies, and technology integration.
Browse courses on Course Design
Show steps
  • Analyze course goals and objectives
  • Research and select appropriate technologies
  • Create a storyboard or outline for the course
  • Design assessments and rubrics
  • Develop a plan for implementation and evaluation
Participate in a Peer Review of Course Materials
Gain feedback from peers on the quality and effectiveness of your digital course materials.
Browse courses on Peer Review
Show steps
  • Identify a peer who is also teaching a digital course
  • Exchange course materials and provide constructive feedback
  • Implement feedback and iterate on your own course materials
Create a Portfolio of Digital Teaching Materials
Build a comprehensive portfolio of digital teaching materials to showcase your skills and expertise in digital education.
Browse courses on Portfolio
Show steps
  • Gather and organize your existing digital teaching materials
  • Develop new materials to fill any gaps in your portfolio
  • Create a website or online platform to showcase your portfolio
  • Share your portfolio with potential employers and collaborators

Career center

Learners who complete Blended Learning Toolkit will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Reading list

We've selected 50 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Blended Learning Toolkit.
Classic in the field of presentation design. It provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of effective presentation design, and it's a great resource for anyone who wants to learn how to create more visually appealing and persuasive presentations.
Explores the use of blended learning in Latin America and the Caribbean. It includes chapters on the history, design, implementation, and evaluation of blended learning programs.
Explores the psychological perspective on blended learning. It includes chapters on the history, design, implementation, and evaluation of blended learning programs. It also includes case studies from a variety of educational settings.
This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of blended learning for educators. It includes chapters on the history, theory, research, and practice of blended learning.
Provides a comprehensive overview of blended learning in higher education. It includes chapters on the history, design, implementation, and evaluation of blended learning programs. It also includes case studies from a variety of higher education institutions.
Provides a comprehensive guide to PowerPoint 2021. It covers everything from the basics to more advanced topics like data visualization and storytelling. It's a great resource for anyone who wants to learn how to create more effective presentations.
This in-depth guide covers all aspects of Zoom, from setting up meetings and managing participants to using advanced features like breakout rooms and polling. It's a valuable resource for anyone who wants to maximize their Zoom experience.
Explores the use of blended learning in English language teaching. It includes chapters on the history, design, implementation, and evaluation of blended learning programs.
Comprehensive guide to PowerPoint. It covers everything from the basics to more advanced topics like data visualization and storytelling. It's a great resource for anyone who wants to learn how to create more effective presentations.
Comprehensive guide to presentation design. It covers everything from the basics of typography and color theory to more advanced topics like data visualization and storytelling. It's a great resource for anyone who wants to learn how to create more visually appealing and effective presentations.
Introduces the backward design framework, a foundational concept in course design that emphasizes starting with desired learning outcomes. It provides a comprehensive approach to planning curriculum, assessment, and instruction. It is widely used as a textbook in educational programs.
Based on extensive research in cognitive psychology, this book provides evidence-based guidelines for designing effective e-learning experiences. It covers principles for using multimedia, visuals, and interactions to optimize learning. This crucial reference for those involved in online course design.
This open-source textbook offers a global perspective on teaching and learning in the digital age. It covers various teaching methods, media selection, and quality assurance in digital environments. It valuable resource for gaining a broad understanding and is regularly updated to reflect new technologies and trends. is widely used by educators and educational planners.
Distills key research on how students learn into seven accessible principles. It provides actionable strategies for applying these principles to course design and teaching practice. This foundational text for understanding the learning process.
Praised for its practical and insightful approach, this book focuses on the specific challenges and strategies for leading remote teams effectively. It covers essential aspects like hiring, onboarding, maintaining culture, and ensuring productivity in a distributed setting, making it highly relevant for leaders who rely on video conferencing.
Delves into the nuances of communication and collaboration within virtual teams, directly addressing the interpersonal and group dynamics affected by the use of tools like video conferencing. It provides research-backed insights and practical strategies for building trust, making decisions, and fostering cohesion in a digital environment. This is highly relevant for anyone working in or managing virtual teams.
Is considered a classic in the field of online learning, offering foundational theories and practical guidance. It is essential for gaining a deep understanding of the principles that have shaped digital education. It must-read for anyone serious about the academic underpinnings of online learning.
Offers practical tactics and strategies for leading and managing teams that operate remotely, heavily relying on video conferencing for interaction. It focuses on aspects like communication, trust-building, and ensuring productivity in a virtual environment. This valuable resource for managers and team leaders in the age of remote work.
Delves into the impact of generative AI on education, a highly contemporary topic in digital education. It explores both the opportunities and challenges of integrating AI into teaching and learning. It is essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the cutting edge of educational technology.
This guide is specifically designed for those who facilitate remote meetings, a core application of video conferencing. It provides actionable tactics and principles for conducting effective and engaging virtual meetings, addressing a key practical skill for anyone involved in video conferencing.
Provides a comprehensive guide to designing and delivering blended learning programs in a corporate setting. It includes step-by-step instructions, case studies, and templates.
Provides a research-based approach to learning that emphasizes the importance of active learning. It offers practical tips and strategies for students and teachers alike.
Provides a collection of tips and tricks for using PowerPoint. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic formatting to more advanced features like animation and interactivity. It's a great resource for anyone who wants to learn how to use PowerPoint more efficiently.
This handbook offers a comprehensive exploration of online learning, covering theoretical perspectives, research methodologies, and practical applications. It is an excellent resource for gaining a broad and deep understanding of online education, a core component of digital education. It key reference for researchers and advanced students.
Is written by a presentation design expert, and it provides a framework for creating presentations that are visually appealing and easy to understand. It's a great resource for anyone who wants to learn how to design more effective presentations.
Provides a practical guide for educators on how to design and implement blended learning programs. It includes step-by-step instructions, case studies, and templates.
This handbook offers a comprehensive guide to successful remote work for all levels within an organization. It covers setting up effective remote environments, communication strategies, and team management techniques, providing a holistic view of how video conferencing fits into a successful remote work strategy.
Provides a comprehensive overview of digital transformation, covering key concepts, strategies, and case studies. It is suitable for both beginners and experienced professionals.
Connects neuroscience with culturally responsive teaching practices, offering a framework for designing instruction that effectively engages diverse learners. It provides practical strategies for building trust and boosting student capacity. This is essential for inclusive course design.
Offers practical principles and activities for creating engaging and active online learning experiences. It is highly relevant for those designing or teaching online courses. It provides concrete strategies to enhance student participation and interaction in digital environments.
Advocates for shifting the focus of teaching from the instructor to the student, emphasizing what and how students are learning. It outlines five key changes educators can make to create a more learner-centered environment. This is an excellent resource for faculty looking to improve their pedagogical approach.
A classic text that explores the potential of computers to revolutionize learning, particularly for children. While published in 1980, Papert's ideas on computational thinking and constructionism remain highly influential in digital education. It must-read for understanding the historical vision for technology in education.
Adapts the principles of 'small teaching' to the online environment, offering practical, small-scale changes that can significantly improve online course design and teaching. It's a valuable resource for educators transitioning to or improving online instruction.
Translates research on the science of learning into practical, evidence-based teaching strategies. It focuses on techniques like retrieval practice, spaced learning, and interleaving that can be integrated into course design to enhance retention and understanding.
Explores the latest research in cognitive science and its implications for learning. It offers insights into how the brain learns and provides practical strategies for students and educators to enhance learning effectiveness. This adds a neuroscientific perspective to course design.
Aimed at employees in distributed teams, this book offers practical advice on navigating the challenges of remote work, such as avoiding loneliness, staying motivated, and communicating effectively. It provides valuable tips for individuals who regularly use video conferencing as part of their work.
Provides a practical guide for remote workers to enhance productivity, manage time, and communicate effectively with colleagues. It offers relatable insights and actionable tips that are useful for anyone utilizing video conferencing as a primary mode of communication in a distributed team.
This classic text outlines a systematic model for instructional design, covering needs assessment, instructional analysis, learner analysis, objectives, assessment, strategy, and evaluation. It provides a foundational understanding of a structured approach to course design.
This collection of essays explores the theoretical and practical aspects of critical digital pedagogy. It delves into contemporary topics by questioning the role of technology in education and advocating for more humanizing approaches. It valuable resource for deepening understanding and engaging with current debates in the field.
Offers a practical guide to digital transformation, with a focus on developing a successful strategy. It draws on the author's experience as a founder of Siebel Systems.
Explores the growing field of learning analytics and its application in educational settings. It is relevant to contemporary topics in digital education, focusing on using data to improve learning. It provides insights for researchers and practitioners interested in data-driven approaches to education.
Presents an alternative grading system, specifications grading, which can significantly impact course design and student motivation. It offers a detailed guide to implementing this approach, focusing on mastery and reducing the focus on पॉइंट्स. This valuable resource for rethinking assessment within course design.
This practical guide provides simple and effective strategies for online teaching. It covers a wide range of topics, including course design, engagement, assessment, and technology tools.
Provides a research-based perspective on online learning. It covers a wide range of topics, including learner engagement, motivation, and assessment.
Offers a concise and accessible overview of key instructional design principles. It's a good starting point for those new to course design and provides practical tips for creating effective learning experiences in various contexts.
This guide offers a practical introduction to using Microsoft Teams, a widely used platform for video conferencing and collaboration. It covers the essential features and functionalities, making it a useful resource for beginners and those who need a quick reference for using the software effectively. While specific to one platform, it addresses the practical aspects of video conferencing use.
Similar to the Microsoft Teams guide, this book provides a user-friendly introduction to Zoom, another dominant video conferencing platform. It covers setting up meetings, using key features, and troubleshooting common issues, making it a practical resource for individuals and teams relying on Zoom for virtual communication.

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