Required Courses 

• Foundations of Learning Design and Technology 

In this course, students will be presented with historical views and core perspectives of learning and cognition as they apply to a variety of contexts, such as learning environments, learning technologies, and emerging field directions. A combination of analysis, discussion, and practical application will lead to the development of skills needed to design successful learning experiences with meaningful technology integration. Examining how the understanding of learning has evolved and is currently viewed helps designers predict and support the needs of current and future learners. 

• Theories and Strategies of Learning 

In this course, students will be presented with historical views and core perspectives of learning and cognition as they apply to a variety of contexts, such as learning environments, learning technologies, and emerging field directions. A combination of analysis, discussion, and practical application will lead to the development of skills needed to design successful learning experiences with meaningful technology integration. Examining how the understanding of learning has evolved and is currently viewed helps designers predict and support the needs of current and future learners. 

• Learning Design and Development 

This hands-on course guides students through a dual learning design development and project management process. Students will work on needs analysis and design objectives, strategies, and assessments that are aligned with the target training module or course. They will justify the choice of strategies, media, and tools, and develop related original materials that incorporate technology meaningfully. They will also reflect on planning for resource development, delivery, implementation, project management, and evaluation of the learning design. The course aims at helping students produce authentic learning-based solutions while implementing ID and project management models and theories. 

• Research Methods in Education and Training 

In this course, learners explore the qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods research methodologies commonly used in the learning sciences (education) and training, focusing on the integration of theory and practice, and ultimately drawing on data to arrive at research-informed decisions both as research designers, and as consumers of research. Students delve into a comprehensive exploration of several research paradigms, focusing on the processes and intricacies of research design, from formulating research questions, surveying the literature, and grappling with ethical considerations, to selecting appropriate methodologies, data collection methods, and analysis techniques relevant to the learning sciences. Students gain practical skills in scholarly writing, interpreting, and presenting research findings, with a focus on applying research insights to real-world challenges in educational and training settings. Collaborative projects foster teamwork, ensuring students develop the expertise needed to contribute meaningfully to the field of learning sciences research. 

• Multimedia Environments 

In this course, learners will examine multimedia design principles and tools that developers and learning designers typically use to deliver computer-based, innovative solutions. Learners will apply principles of visual literacy and visual communication, thus gaining practical experience with text, graphics, and web design (with audio, video, and screen capturing) for the creation of authentic, interactive learning experiences. Accessibility and inclusive design, as well as multimedia issues (including copyright and licensing for Open Educational Resources) will be discussed, and there will be numerous opportunities for students to perform evaluations of digital media technologies. 

• Online Teaching and Learning 

The course presents fundamental concepts, principles, models and research-based best practices for the effective instructional design, and the use of technology in online education and training programs. It focuses on the knowledge, skills, and dispositions of the online teacher, as well as the characteristics and needs of the online learner. The design, implementation and assessment of online learning is addressed through various case-based opportunities and innovative pedagogical approaches. Current trends and future directions in online teaching and learning research are also shared. 

• Developing Learning Experiences with Design Thinking 

This hands-on course provides an overview of the powerful, creative process of design thinking as a problem-solving approach within the context of learning and training. Participants will be exposed to the principles of design thinking and will explore the effectiveness of this process when the goal is innovation. Real-world examples will be discussed, revealing how the design thinking process can enhance learning while addressing systemic change. Students will have the chance to implement design thinking in their professional environment, in order to solve a problem related to their own work practice. 

• Managing Distance Education 

In this course, learners will explore core concepts, technologies, and issues related to the design, development, and delivery of adult learning and training at a distance. Specifically, learners will gain knowledge on factors that influence learning and training in adults and the relationship between these factors to distance education theories. Learners will also focus on effective leadership and change management techniques and they will consider strategy, planning, policy, and resourcing issues to lead change in distance learning and training environments. 

• Learning Analytics 

In this course, learners explore the theoretical foundations and practical use of learning analytics in educational and training contexts. Through the deep understanding and interpretation of learning data, learners assess student engagement and learning outcomes and enhance teaching practices. Learners gain hands-on experience as they focus on understanding the ways in which learning analytics can be used to develop experiences, support learners, and predict success. 

Practicum Track or Thesis Track 

• Capstone Project or Portfolio or Thesis Track 

This course serves as the culminating experience of the program, allowing learners to synthesize and integrate knowledge, skills, and creativity acquired throughout their LD&T coursework. Students demonstrate their educational growth, professional proficiency, and readiness for real-world challenges by creating a comprehensive capstone product of personal or professional interest. This product may take the form of a practical project addressing an authentic learning or performance problem, or a portfolio showcasing selected work, reflective synthesis, a personal learning design philosophy, and a peer-review contribution. Both options are designed to exhibit mastery in Learning Design and Technology, align with program outcomes and students’ professional goals, and be utilized beyond the end of the program as a manifestation to prospective employers of integrated learning from their coursework, and of the level and range of their professional skills and practice. 

• Technology Requirements: