Are you a learning developer, learning technologist, instructional designer, instructor or lecturer looking to enhance your multimedia production skills? If so, we have a course for you!
Multimedia and online learning design in Higher Education will equip you with the knowledge and practical skills to produce high-quality multimedia content. Support providers will also learn how to guide and support academics and research staff in effectively integrating multimedia resources into their teaching. Whether you’re just starting out or are already an experienced professional, this course offers valuable insights to help you grow.
Throughout this course, you’ll delve into the essential aspects of multimedia learning, from Mayer’s principles to hands-on production techniques and online learning design. The course is structured into four modules and below you will find an overview and breakdown of the course content.
Module 1: Multimedia learning – What, how and why?
This module explores how to effectively integrate multimedia into teaching, focusing on aligning content with specific learning objectives to maximise educational impact. By understanding how multimedia can enhance learning, educators can better support students in gaining the knowledge and skills they need.
The module also covers principles of multimedia learning, based on Richard Mayer’s Cognitive Theory and John Sweller’s Cognitive Load Theory. It explains how information is processed through auditory and visual channels and stresses the importance of managing cognitive load. These principles are valuable in various teaching settings, helping to design educational experiences that are both effective and supportive.
Is this module for me?
For anyone looking for insights into multimedia learning principles, good practices, examples and handouts.
Module learning objectives
After this module, you will:
- Understand the main principles and effectiveness of multimedia learning design in the educational context.
- Use multimedia design principles to provide feedback on the effectiveness of existing multimedia materials in education.
Module 2: Multimedia production – Guidelines & Tools from and for Higher Education
This module explores the process of creating educational multimedia content, from DIY approaches to professional setups. It covers key aspects such as content, instructional design, media use, and technology, emphasising the importance of planning through the phases of pre-production, production, and post-production. The module also provides guidance on technical elements like camera placement, lighting, and sound, to ensure a high-quality output.
Additionally, the module highlights the importance of considering accessibility and copyright when creating multimedia.
Is this module for me?
For anyone looking for insights into production approaches & settings in other Higher Education institutions. Also, video/audio production principles (mainly aimed at non-experts).
Module learning objectives
After this module, you will:
- Be familiar with multimedia production approaches in several higher education organisations;
- Be able to decide on your own approach, balancing content, instructional design, media and technology.
Module 3: Create online learning – Principles and guidelines to create online learning
This module provides valuable guidance for creating effective online learning experiences by aligning teaching strategies with the specific needs of learners. It stresses the importance of selecting the right online learning format—whether hybrid, blended, or fully online—based on a thorough analysis of learner characteristics, prior knowledge, and learning preferences. The process involves defining the target audience and customising course content to meet their diverse needs, using methods such as Persona-Profiling to ensure inclusivity and relevance.
Furthermore, the module offers strategies to enhance engagement and interaction within the online learning environment, focusing on the use of multimedia, gamification, and interactive elements to keep learners motivated. It introduces key pedagogical theories and instructional design frameworks to ensure that content is delivered effectively. Additionally, the module covers best practices for assessments, feedback, and ongoing quality control, providing a comprehensive toolkit for continuously improving the online learning experience.
Is this module for me?
For anyone looking to explore educational principles of online learning creation. Mainly aimed at those with limited to intermediate experience in creating online learning arrangements.
Module learning objectives
After this module, you will:
- Understand what different principles and guidelines can add in creating effective and engaging online learning experiences.
- Improve the engagement, interaction and assessment of different elements in an existing online course design.
Module 4: Facilitate and support – Facilitating Learners and Supporting Educators
This module emphasises building a supportive learning environment through social interaction and constructive communication. It introduces Schulz von Thun’s and Watzlawick’s frameworks that can be used to better understand communication processes and prevent misunderstandings. The module also covers managing both synchronous and asynchronous online learning, highlighting the importance of structure, interactive exercises, and continuous feedback to keep students engaged.
Additionally, the module guides educators in effectively using Learning Management Systems (LMS) for course management and interaction. It includes best practices for integrating multimedia content and using dynamic tools like H5P and Mentimeter to enhance engagement. The overall goal is to help educators create innovative online learning experiences tailored to diverse student needs.
Is this module for me?
For anyone looking to explore the practicalities of online learning. Mainly aimed at those with limited experience in creating online learning arrangements.
Module learning objectives
After this module, you will:
1. Understand different ways to influence experience of a learner in an online learning environment.
2. Apply level: Provide the right practical approach to facilitate online learning, matching the learning context.
Conclusion
The Multimedia and online learning design in Higher Education course offers valuable insights for both beginners and those with more experience in multimedia production. For those new to the field, the course provides a solid foundation in multimedia learning principles, production techniques, and online learning design, equipping participants with the essential skills to succeed. For those with more experience, the course offers an opportunity to deepen their expertise, explore how peers in different countries approach their work, and refresh their knowledge.
