Spartan Learning Experience Design (SLXD)

Illustration of a Spartan helmet centrally placed and encircled by the text "Spartan Learning Experience Design." Surrounding the helmet are various educational and technological icons, including books, e-readers, a globe, a wi-fi symbol, a pencil, and other learning tools, all interconnected by lines and nodes. Leafy branches and academic symbols add to the theme, highlighting the convergence of traditional and modern learning elements.

Project Title: Spartan Learning Experience Design (SLXD)

Project Date: March 2024 – present

Short Description: SLXD is a self-directed, asynchronous D2L course designed for MSU educators to enhance their abilities in creating innovative and effective learning experiences. The course aligns with the Quality Matters (QM) framework and aims to assist MSU educators in designing courses that meet QM standards. To promote the course, a number of professional development workshops have been organized, providing participants with opportunities to engage in interactive discussions, receive personalized feedback, and collaborate with peers. These sessions are intended to bridge the gap between the online materials and practical application, ensuring that educators can effectively implement best practices in their own teaching contexts. Attendees can also share their experiences and challenges, fostering a community of continuous improvement and support among MSU educators.

My Main Contributions:

Writing Instructional Materials: In collaboration with my coworkers, we designed the D2L course from scratch, working together to develop a cohesive and engaging progression of content. As a team, we crafted the syllabus to effectively communicate course objectives, expectations, and policies to participants. We collaboratively established specific learning objectives for each module, guiding educators through the materials to ensure they achieve desired competencies. Together, we prepared all module materials, including readings and multimedia resources, creating a comprehensive and interactive learning experience.
Designing and Running Educator Training: Working alongside my coworkers, we designed 18 one-hour sessions inspired by the D2L course content, delivering the training in a hybrid format. This process involved a team-based analysis of key themes and essential components of the D2L course, which we then distilled into concise, impactful sessions. We utilized a variety of instructional strategies, such as group work, case studies, and role-playing, to foster active learning and collaboration among participants. Additionally, our team implemented feedback mechanisms to continually refine and enhance the training sessions based on participant input, ensuring a collaborative approach to continuous improvement.

Products:

Other Contributors:

Dr. Jay Loftus
Dave Goodrich
Monica Mills
Dr. Bethany Meadows

Creation of lifelong.msu.edu

A-CAPP Professional Certificate Program

Redesigning of teachingcenter.msu.edu