Innovation and improved student learning: Instructional design at UC Online

At UC Online, our Instructional Design Team ensures that every class provides more than just knowledge. Our courses are designed to engage you while you build the skills you need for your career.

When it comes to education, nothing is accidental. The reason for this is instructional design, which the Instructional Design Center defines as “the process by which learning experiences and products are designed, developed, and delivered.”

Courses that are thoughtfully designed build trust. They reaffirm to students that they’re receiving a rigorous, high-quality education. 

Dr. Shaunak Sastry, Professor of Communication at UC, worked with the Instructional Design staff to review a COMM course for quality. After receiving feedback from the team, he shared, "I do feel that I am able to offer a much more streamlined and accessible course as an instructor.”

UC Online’s Instruction staff is dedicated to designing courses that prepare learners for career success. Whether they’re fine-tuning current course offerings or developing a brand-new program, these professionals are intentional and detail oriented.

In many instances, the work of the Instruction team results in improved student learning, retention, and satisfaction.

Let’s look at an example of UC Online’s Instruction team in action.

“One project I’m especially proud of was the recent development of the courses in our new Hospitality Management program,” said Jenny Davis, Instructional Designer.

In designing these courses, the Instruction staff focused on reflecting real-world scenarios in the industry. Theoretical knowledge will only get learners so far.

In a constantly evolving field like hospitality management, it’s imperative that graduates be able to navigate complex and often unexpected challenges — whether that’s dissatisfied guests or temperamental technology. Practical coursework that covers tourism, operations, and customer service is the best way to prepare learners for the workforce.

Instructional Designers play a crucial role in keeping UC’s online courses up-to-date and beneficial to students.

Dr. Ryan Maloney, Hospitality Management Program Director, had high praise for the Instructional staff’s work.

“These courses are designed to reflect the real-world challenges facing today’s hospitality leaders,” he explained. “Through the study of hotels, restaurants, events, and more, students develop the soft and technical skills needed to make an immediate and meaningful impact upon entering management roles in the industry.”

Instructional Design paves the way for innovative and high-impact learning. When courses prepare students for their future careers, they believe in the power their degree holds. They become invested in their UC education — and they learn what We See You means.

UC Online’s Instructional Design team is dedicated to delivering cutting-edge course design and engaging student experiences.

The future of online learning is here at UC.