The challenge
The dramatic impact of Covid-19 upon education increased the demand for high-quality distance learning. In the design of online learning in this challenging scenario, it was important not to lose the benefits of campus-based learning, particularly in high-contact disciplines like teacher education.
My intervention
At Coventry University I was responsible for the end-to-end development of online programmes on FutureLearn, including a PGCE distance learning qualification for Primary and Secondary education, and several subject-specific short courses. My goal was to deliver pedagogically sound, engaging, and inclusive content that supported learner success at scale.
I scoped and mapped out 33 weeks of PGCE content across three modules, creating detailed course storyboards in collaboration with subject matter experts, whom I mentored through the process of writing for online learning. I designed written content that incorporated active learning principles, threaded a combination of in-school tasks with online research and reflective activities, and regular feedback prompts. I worked closely with a media team to embed relevant images, video, and audio elements that enhanced accessibility and engagement.
The outcome
The programme not only supported the university’s strategic goals in developing quality online learning and widen access to professional qualifications, but student feedback also highlighted the clarity, interactivity, and consistency of the materials. My collaborative, detail-oriented approach helped ensure content quality and learner satisfaction across multiple subject areas.