Learning Technologies Foundations and Applications

Learning Technologies Foundations and Applications is an online course offered by the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, taught by Wenhao David Huang. This course is part of the Instructional Design MasterTrack Certificate and is designed to introduce learners to the field of learning technologies, focusing on both foundational theories and practical applications across diverse educational and organizational contexts.

Course Structure and Content

• The course is divided into six modules, each exploring key aspects of learning technologies:

  • Introduction and Orientation: Familiarizes learners with the course structure, technical requirements, and the learning environment.

  • Field Overview and Career Paths: Discusses the landscape of learning technologies and potential career opportunities in the field.

  • Evolution and Impact of Learning Technologies: Explores the historical development of learning technologies and their influence on global citizenship, teaching, and learning.

  • Designing Effective Learning Technologies: Covers frameworks such as E3, Motivation, Volition, and Performance (MVP), and transactional distance, with a focus on diversity, assistive technologies, and the needs of senior citizens.

  • Cognitive Load Theory: Examines how Cognitive Load Theory informs the design of technology-enriched learning environments to optimize learners’ cognitive capacity.

  • Final Reflections and Applications: Encourages learners to reflect on their learning and consider practical applications.

Skills You Will Gain

• Instructional design

• Electronic media and technology solutions

• Learning management systems

• Human-computer interaction

• Learning theory and innovation

• Education software, emerging technologies, and assistive technology

• Technical consulting and technology strategies

Learning Experience

• The course includes a mix of video lectures, readings, quizzes, assignments, and discussion prompts, allowing for interactive and self-paced learning.

• Upon completion, learners can earn a certificate that can be added to their LinkedIn profile or resume.

Who Should Enroll

• This course is suitable for educators, instructional designers, HR professionals, and anyone interested in leveraging technology for teaching, training, or organizational learning.

Instructor and Ratings

• Instructor: Wenhao David Huang

• Course rating: 4.5/5 from over 180 reviews, praised for its informative content and practical approach.

Offered by

• University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, recognized for its academic excellence and leadership in research and public engagement.

This course provides a comprehensive foundation for understanding and applying learning technologies in various educational and professional settings.