DESIGNING DIGITAL LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

 Assalamualaikum everyone!

This week I would like to share a method to design digital learning environment. This method is based on notes shared by Ms Aimi to my class.

By hook or by crook, using technology especially lesson involving edutech is a must in this "Post-Covid-19" Era where Teaching and Learning is most likely using technology such as internet as a medium. Most educators have accept the fact that technology usage is important in delivering the lessons.

However, one big question that need to be think is "How should we design the lesson that involve technology?" Usually, in designing any system a suitable problem solving  model application can be used to help designing a good system. For example during my experience in industry working as a Halal Executive, we have been designing our own Quality Management System (QMS) for ISO 9001 certification. In order to design a good QMS, we have used the concept of PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) and based on this model the system can be ensure the continuous improvement.  

For the case of designing digital learning environment there are two model can be used which are ADDIE model and ASSURE model. ADDIE model is a model that derived from: 

1. Analysis, 
2. Design, 
3. Development, 
4. Implementation, and 
5. Evaluation. 

For ASSURE model, it is derived from: 

1. Analyze learners’ characteristics, competencies, and learning styles
2. State objectives for what your lesson should accomplish (ABCD format—audience/behavior/condition/degree)
3. Select, modify, and design methods, media, and materials
4. Utilize methods, media and materials—implement the lesson
5. Require learner participation in lesson
6. Evaluate learner outcomes with objectives and revise as necessary.

Both models use the similar concept but different approach in obtaining the same objective by evaluation on students.

Digital learning is any type of learning that is accompanied by technology or by instructional practice that makes effective use of technology. It encompasses the application of a wide spectrum of practices including: blended and virtual learning. Digital Learning is sometimes confused with online learning or e-learning, digital learning encompasses the aforementioned concepts.

A digital learning strategy may include any of or a combination of any of the following:

1. adaptive learning
2. badging and gamification
3. blended learning
4. classroom technologies
5. e-textbooks
6. learning analytics
7. learning objects
8. mobile learning e.g. Mobile Phones, Laptops, Computers, iPads.
9. personalized learning
10. online learning (or e-learning)
11. open educational resources (OERs)
12. technology-enhanced teaching and learning
13. virtual reality
14. augmented reality

There are few types of Digital Learning Approach can be used for students which are:

1. Problem-Based Learning
2. Drill and Practice
3. Project-Based Learning

Problem-Based Learning

The best instructional strategy for e-learning is to use problems as triggers of learning. The e-learning environment is perfect for PBL cycles. PBL approaches provide the motivation for online learning engagement in terms of connecting to resources, peers and experts.

Drill and Practice

Reinforcement activities are practice activities that give learners the chance to apply the information, knowledge, and skills they have learned from the course. In an eLearning course, you can use several types of reinforcement/practice activities. These range from hands-on, guided-analysis, teamwork activities and drill-and-practice.

Project-Based Learning

Research shows that PBL can help students build 21st-century skills such as collaboration, communication, critical thinking and creativity. It also gives students agency in their learning and lends itself to a more authentic assessment of their skills and capabilities. Plus, PBL allows students to learn through well-designed projects and self-evaluation.

According to our subjects and assessment method that we used in our curriculum, suitable approach can be used to design digital learning environment for our students.