Designing Learning Innovation from Coursera

Where to start to innovate your teaching? But before that, what does it mean to innovate in the classroom? Designing Learning Innovation aims to put the designing culture at the service of learning innovation, supporting those who do not have a specific pedagogical background and those who wish to learn the basic tools of a good teaching design then to continue exploring the frontiers of innovation.

A set of logical and methodological tools to innovate teaching, finding the most suitable approaches with one’s own vision of the teaching-learning experience.

INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES (ILOs)

If you actively participate in this course, at the end you will be able to:

Use basic theoretical-methodological tools (such as Constructive Alignment and the Learning Innovation Network) to enhance teaching coherence between learning objectives, assessment methods and learning experiences;

apply pedagogical frameworks of the active learning methodology to the design either an individual teaching module or an entire teaching path;

evaluate advantages and disadvantages, in the field of your own teachings, of traditional evaluation approaches compared to the new assessment strategies, in particular those oriented to the formative evaluation;

apply simple strategies for managing the active class in small, medium and large classrooms;

designing and producing quality teaching materials also enhancing the availability of “Open Educational Resources”.

THE MOOC-BOOK: MATERIALS AND ACTIVITIES

The MOOC is realized in a strongly integrated way with the book “Designing Learning Innovation” published by Pearson (the english version is the translation of the italian one already published and accessible here https://www.bookrepublic.it/ebook/9788891926067-designing-learning-innovation-pearson/)

In the course you will find video lessons and infographic articulated as in the book. You will also encounter different types of activities which will contribute to make your experience richer and more complete.

What's inside

Syllabus

Why Learning Innovation

The topic of this first week “Why should we carry out Learning Innovation” explores the concept of Learning Innovation and the reasons behind it, trying to find an answer to the question: “why should we need to innovate our teaching?”

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Explores innovative approaches to teaching, providing a comprehensive foundation for designing impactful learning experiences

Led by experienced instructors from Politecnico di Milano, known for their contributions to educational innovation

Offers practical tools for aligning learning objectives, assessment methods, and learning experiences

Emphasizes active learning methodologies, enabling students to engage and retain information effectively

Covers essential aspects of teaching design, assessment, and classroom management to enhance learner engagement and success

Requires access to technology and basic computer literacy for full participation

Reviews summary

Foundations of learning innovation design

According to the course design, learners can expect to gain practical pedagogical tools for innovating teaching. The curriculum is exceptionally structured, guiding participants through key concepts like Constructive Alignment and the unique Learning Innovation Network. This course appears well-suited for those without a formal pedagogical background, providing a solid foundation in teaching design. The integration with a companion MOOC-book, including video lessons and infographics, suggests a rich learning experience. While comprehensive for foundational knowledge, the course might offer introductory-level depth, potentially leaving experienced educators seeking more advanced strategies.

Materials are well-structured with an accompanying book.

"The integration of the MOOC with the Pearson book makes for a very cohesive and valuable learning resource."

"I appreciated the video lessons and infographics; they complemented the book's content perfectly."

"Having a well-produced accompanying book enhances the depth and reference potential of the course material."

Covers a broad spectrum of teaching innovation topics.

"The syllabus provides a thorough overview, from defining learning innovation to designing materials and assessments."

"I found the detailed exploration of the Learning Innovation Network concept particularly insightful for rethinking my approach."

"The course structure flows logically, ensuring a complete understanding of the teaching-learning process."

Excellent starting point for new or non-pedagogy professionals.

"As someone without a specific pedagogical background, this course provided a clear and accessible introduction to teaching innovation."

"I appreciated that it focused on the basic tools of good teaching design without being overwhelming."

"This course is ideal if you're looking to understand the fundamentals of modern teaching methodologies."

Offers actionable frameworks for designing effective teaching.

"I found the Constructive Alignment and Learning Innovation Network incredibly useful for structuring my teaching."

"The course helped me apply active learning methodologies directly to my lesson plans, which was a huge benefit."

"I learned practical strategies for managing active classes, both small and large, that I can implement immediately."

May not delve deep enough for advanced practitioners.

"While great for a foundation, I might have wished for more in-depth case studies or advanced theoretical discussions."

"As an experienced educator, some sections felt quite introductory, though still useful for a refresher."

"I would have liked to see a deeper dive into cutting-edge innovation or more complex pedagogical challenges."

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 Designing Learning Innovation with these activities:

Review constructivist learning theories

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Reviewing constructivist learning theory will provide a strong foundation for the course content on tools for teaching.

Browse courses on Constructivism

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Read an introduction to constructivism
Identify the key principles of constructivism
Apply constructivist principles to a learning scenario

Read "Teaching for Learning: A Guide to Effective Teaching in Higher Education"

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"Teaching for Learning: A Guide to Effective Teaching in Higher Education" provides valuable insights into effective teaching practices and can complement the course materials on teaching design and innovation.

View Melania on Amazon

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Read the book
Summarize the key points of the book
Identify the implications of the book for your own teaching practice

Participate in a peer learning group

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Participating in a peer learning group will provide opportunities to collaborate with others to improve your understanding of the course concepts.

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Identify a peer learning group
Attend the group meetings
Participate in the group discussions

Five other activities

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Follow tutorials on active learning strategies

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Following tutorials on active learning strategies will provide practical guidance on how to implement these strategies in the classroom and enhance student engagement.

Browse courses on Active Learning

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Search for tutorials on active learning strategies
Watch or read the tutorials
Identify the key takeaways from the tutorials

Design a learning module using the Learning Innovation Network

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Starting a project to design a learning module will provide hands-on experience with the Learning Innovation Network tool and help students apply the course concepts to a real-world scenario.

Browse courses on Learning Innovation Network

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Identify the learning objectives for the module
Select appropriate activities and resources for the module
Develop an assessment plan for the module
Create a prototype of the module
Get feedback on the module and make revisions

Attend a conference or workshop on teaching and learning

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Attending a conference or workshop on teaching and learning will provide opportunities to connect with other educators and learn about innovative teaching practices.

Browse courses on Teaching and Learning

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Identify a relevant conference or workshop
Register for the event
Attend the event

Develop a proposal for an innovative teaching intervention

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Developing a proposal for an innovative teaching intervention will provide an opportunity to apply the course concepts to a real-world problem and demonstrate understanding of the principles of teaching design and innovation.

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Identify a problem or challenge in your teaching practice
Develop a proposal for an innovative teaching intervention to address the problem or challenge
Present your proposal to your peers or instructors for feedback

Mentor a new or struggling student in your field

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Mentoring a new or struggling student will provide an opportunity to apply your knowledge and skills to support the learning of others.

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Identify a student who could benefit from your mentorship
Establish a regular meeting schedule with the student
Provide guidance and support to the student

Career center

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

Instructional Design Specialist

Instructional Design Specialists design and develop learning materials and experiences. This course may be helpful for Instructional Design Specialists, as it provides a foundation in learning theory and instructional design. The course covers topics such as learner analysis, content development, and evaluation, which are all essential concepts for Instructional Design Specialists to understand.

See salaries and explore the career path for Instructional Design Specialist

Learning and Development Specialist

Learning and Development Specialists design and deliver training programs for employees. This course may be helpful for Learning and Development Specialists, as it provides a foundation in learning theory and instructional design. The course covers topics such as needs assessment, learning objectives, and evaluation, which are all essential concepts for Learning and Development Specialists to understand.

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Curriculum Developer

Curriculum Developers plan and develop educational programs and materials. This course may be helpful for Curriculum Developers, as it provides a foundation in learning theory and instructional design. The course covers topics such as curriculum mapping, learning objectives, and assessment, which are all essential concepts for Curriculum Developers to understand.

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Educational Consultant

Educational Consultants provide advice and support to educational institutions and organizations. This course may be helpful for Educational Consultants, as it provides a foundation in learning theory and instructional design. The course covers topics such as needs assessment, program evaluation, and change management, which are all essential concepts for Educational Consultants to understand.

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Instructional Coach

Instructional Coaches work with teachers to improve their teaching skills. This course may be helpful for Instructional Coaches, as it provides a foundation in learning theory and instructional design. The course covers topics such as observation, feedback, and reflection, which are all essential concepts for Instructional Coaches to understand.

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eLearning Developer

eLearning Developers design and develop online learning programs. This course may be helpful for eLearning Developers, as it provides a foundation in learning theory and instructional design. The course covers topics such as online learning environments, learner engagement, and assessment, which are all essential concepts for eLearning Developers to understand.

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Educational Researcher

Educational Researchers conduct research on learning and teaching. This course may be helpful for Educational Researchers, as it provides a foundation in learning theory and research methods. The course covers topics such as qualitative and quantitative research, data analysis, and reporting, which are all essential concepts for Educational Researchers to understand.

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Education Policy Analyst

Education Policy Analysts develop and analyze policies related to education. This course may be helpful for Education Policy Analysts, as it provides a foundation in learning theory and policy analysis. The course covers topics such as education law, funding, and equity, which are all essential concepts for Education Policy Analysts to understand.

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Learning Experience Designer

Learning Experience Designers design and develop learning experiences for learners. This course may be helpful for Learning Experience Designers, as it provides a foundation in learning theory and instructional design. The course covers topics such as learner engagement, motivation, and assessment, which are all essential concepts for Learning Experience Designers to understand.

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Instructional Technologist

Instructional Technologists use technology to improve teaching and learning. This course may be helpful for Instructional Technologists, as it provides a foundation in learning theory and instructional design. The course covers topics such as educational technology, online learning, and assessment, which are all essential concepts for Instructional Technologists to understand.

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School Administrator

School Administrators oversee the operation of schools. This course may be helpful for School Administrators, as it provides a foundation in learning theory and educational leadership. The course covers topics such as curriculum development, assessment, and school improvement, which are all essential concepts for School Administrators to understand.

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Teacher

Teachers plan and deliver instruction to students. This course may be helpful for Teachers, as it provides a foundation in learning theory and instructional design. The course covers topics such as lesson planning, classroom management, and assessment, which are all essential concepts for Teachers to understand.

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Professor

Professors teach and conduct research at colleges and universities. This course may be helpful for Professors, as it provides a foundation in learning theory and instructional design. The course covers topics such as course design, teaching methods, and assessment, which are all essential concepts for Professors to understand.

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Education Consultant

Education Consultants provide advice and support to educational institutions and organizations. This course may be helpful for Education Consultants, as it provides a foundation in learning theory and educational leadership. The course covers topics such as needs assessment, program evaluation, and change management, which are all essential concepts for Education Consultants to understand.

See salaries and explore the career path for Education Consultant

Instructional Designer

Instructional Designers plan and develop educational materials and experiences. This course may be helpful for Instructional Designers, as it provides a foundation in learning innovation and design principles. The course covers topics such as constructive alignment, active learning, and assessment, which are all essential concepts for Instructional Designers to understand.

See salaries and explore the career path for Instructional Designer