Strategic Learning Program Design and Analysis

This course examines the design, development, and evaluation of learning programs as a strategic and analytical process that extends beyond the design of individual courses. Applicable to corporate, educational, and nonprofit contexts, students explore theoretical frameworks and applied practices that inform the design of digital and hybrid learning programs that are competitive in the market and meet organizational and learner needs. The course includes practical steps that inform early-stage decision-making in program design, such as market analysis, program differentiation and positioning, needs assessment, stakeholder analysis and engagement, the use of quantitative and qualitative data to inform design decisions, and compliance with accreditation and/or external organizational requirements. The course complements coursework in instructional design, educational technology, and project management by focusing on program-level strategy and decision-making. Through applied projects, the course provides direct experience with the program-level learning design process, including facilitating the creation of learning objectives across stakeholders, guiding the development of program architecture and sequencing, alignment across courses or program components, avoiding redundancy and identifying gaps, and embedding assessment and evaluation throughout the program lifecycle. The course addresses several program-wide considerations during the design process, such as scalability, consistency in user experience and media assets, sustainability of program materials for content currency and accessibility, and adaptability to changes in strategic priorities, market conditions, and learner needs. Particular emphasis is given to the role of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence. The course equips students to lead or support the strategic development, evaluation, and improvement of program-level learning design across educational and professional contexts.