Digital Education

The instructional design team leads course planning and development. They work closely with subject matter experts (SMEs) and program leadership to clarify learning objectives, align them with assessments and activities and structure the course for optimal flow and student engagement. Drawing on evidence-based practices and fundamental learning theories, they ensure that each course is designed not only to deliver content but also to foster active participation, critical thinking and collaboration.

The instructional design process involves rethinking the syllabus, adapting teaching methods for online or blended delivery and finding ways to connect students with the material and each other. Whether through interactive discussions or problem-based activities, instructional designers help SMEs create a learning environment that is rigorous, engaging and inclusive.

Instructional designers are partners in creating courses that are purposeful, effective and learner-centered. 

Examples of services:

• Collaborate on course planning and ensure learning objectives align with AUC’s academic standards
• Apply evidence-based teaching strategies to foster active learning and engagement
• Structure content, activities and assessments for a logical and accessible student learning path
• Support online and blended delivery methods without compromising academic rigor

The multimedia and instructional technologists collaborate with faculty to identify the right tools and technologies to enhance the learning experience for students and make courses more engaging. They also provide guidance and training on effectively using AUC’s learning management systems (i.e., Canvas) to organize course content, facilitate discussions, assess student learning and track engagement.

The multimedia and instructional technology team is also involved in online course development. They are responsible for mapping the entire student learning journey, creating a clear step-by-step path that guides learners through all materials and activities. They manage course setup, ensure all materials are uploaded correctly and guarantee the technical environment runs smoothly. The team ensures courses are both engaging and accessible by creating visually compelling and interactive resources.

Examples of services:

• Design the learning journey: Plan the entire course, creating a clear step-by-step path for students to follow through all materials and activities
• Select technology tools: Work with faculty to choose the right tools and technologies to make courses more engaging and enhance student learning
• LMS guidance and training: Provide faculty with guidance and training on how to use the learning management systems for content organization, discussions and student assessment
• Content enhancement: Bring creativity to teaching materials, making courses engaging through visually compelling and interactive resources
• Ensure accessibility: Guarantee courses are welcoming and accessible to all students by creating resources that meet accessibility standards
   

In today’s learning environments, high-quality video and audio are among the most powerful tools for teaching. The instructional video production team transforms ideas into professional, engaging media that support course objectives. They work with SMEs to plan, script and storyboard videos that are clear, concise and engaging. The team also advises SMEs on presentation techniques, pacing and how to adapt content for video in ways that maximize student attention and comprehension.

Through an ASHA grant, the Center for Learning and Teaching (CLT) has established a general video production studio that serves AUC SMEs and program leadership working with CLT on developing high-quality video and audio for instructional purposes, specifically for blended and online courses. The production of these videos enriches instructional modules offered online.

Formats range from short micro-lectures and tutorials to interviews, demonstrations, roleplay scenarios and video or audio podcasts. Each medium is designed with both content and audience in mind, ensuring it fits seamlessly into the course structure and supports the intended learning goals.

Examples of services:

• Collaborate, plan and script videos for clarity and impact
• Manage all aspects of production including filming, lighting, sound and editing
• Add motion graphics, animations and visual effects to explain complex concepts
• Provide guidance on best practices for on-camera delivery and visual storytelling