Using an Online Engagement Framework to Redesign the Learning Environment for Higher Education Students: A Design Experiment Approach

Abstract

With more higher education courses being offered online, the design of the learning environment is an essential component of the educational experience. However, not all online learning environments facilitate student engagement. This paper describes the redesign of two online Initial Teacher Education courses in a regional university, using the Online Engagement Framework (OEF) for higher education. Following a design experiment approach, the online components of the course were audited and redesigned with consideration to the five elements of online learning and engagement. To understand the effectiveness of the redesign, we analysed student feedback from 24 course offerings along with course analytics. Data indicated an increase in student engagement, as well as feedback indicating students highly valued the cognitive, behavioural, and emotional elements of their online courses. The paper reinforces the importance of forefronting student input in course redesign, and offers timely and practical considerations to guide course redesign.