Learning Theory/ID Models
& Opening Presentation Video

Reflection on Learning Theory:

This reflection aims to identify learning theories that I found to be most influential in shaping the design and objectives of the minicourse, and how did it guide my decisions regarding content, activities, and assessments. We will discuss with some examples.

Constructivism is applied here as the learners in this learning context are actively involved with the activities and they get to use their past experience as well during social interactions with their fellow learners while contributing to the discussion posts. Learners can feel ownership over their learning as they can design their own activities while working on the course assignment.

Cognitivism is also important to enhance the learner’s learning capacity and work with how they think by using various techniques to reinforce their learning. Learning is also not in isolation here and is an interpersonal activity. The learners are actively involved in the learning process and come up with “schemata” that must be worked with. “Cognitive load” was managed effectively by removing extraneous elements and providing learning resources what assists them to learn better.

​Connectivism learning theory is also applied as digital space and technology permeate most learning activities in this interactive learning scenario. There are many free online resources and information available on the topic for use.

Andragogy (adult learning) theory is used as the course is adult-centered and the learners draw from previous experiences, are motivated, and are ready to learn relevant content as well as problem-solving. The learners are able to use their experience, self-direct, and know why they are doing the activities given. Autonomy of the learner is essential to the process. It becomes more of a problem-solving space than just memorization which is an important principle of Andragogy.

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Reflection on Instructional Design Models:

The rapid instructional design model is primarily followed in the development of the minicourse. The rapid learning model is used as the Instructional Designer here is autonomous and a Subject Matter Expert (SME). The rapid model is used in the minicourse development to accommodate tighter timelines or the need for flexibility. Rapid instructional design model allowed me to quickly prototype and refine the minicourse using existing resources and streamlined processes, making it possible to respond quickly to changing learning needs or constraints.

I have also utilized the ADDIE model as a comprehensive roadmap for the minicourse development. Starting with the Analysis phase, I assessed the needs of the target learners and defined clear learning objectives. In the Design phase, I planned the course structure and selected appropriate instructional strategies. Development involved the creation of course materials and activities, followed by Implementation, where the course is delivered to learners. Finally, the evaluation phase would help to assess the minicourse's effectiveness and identify areas for improvement for future learners.

While also adopting the UbD framework, I could structure the minicourse by working backward from desired learning outcomes. This involved designing assessments first to clearly define what success looks like, then developing instructional materials and activities that prepare learners to achieve these outcomes. Such a backward design approach ensured that every element of the minicourse is purposefully aligned with end goals, promoting deeper understanding and the ability to apply knowledge in practical post-secondary teaching context.

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Opening Presentation Screencast: 

The opening presentation screencast is a 2.5 minute video for one of the modules in the minicourse recorded using a screencast video tool to introduce the learners to the module. ScreenPal tool is used for the screencast and video editing, and YouTube is used for publishing and editing the video. The video includes a few examples of course content to connect the learners to the upcoming work highlighting active learning strategies. Closed captioning is added to the video to be inclusive for all learners. Please watch the video here on YouTube to play it with closed captioning.