Postgraduate Diploma in Learning Design and Technology

The Postgraduate Diploma in Learning Design and Technology (PGDLD&T) is offered by the School of Education at The Open University of Kenya. Programme Philosophy: The programme connects to the mission and philosophy of the OUK which is to "prioritize the development of critical thinking skills, innovativeness, and the ability to engage in independent and interdisciplinary inquiry and practical application of knowledge." Rationale: Kenya, like other countries, is experiencing rapid technological advancements transforming how we live and work. There is a need for innovative educational programs to keep pace with these changes and ensure that the workforce is equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the 21st century. The Big 4 Agenda, Vision 2030, Agenda 2063, and SDG4 all have education as a critical component. The Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) introduced the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) and the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) as key stakeholders in its implementation. Additionally, the integration of ICT in education is a key part of CBC. CBC emphasizes the development of competencies such as critical thinking, creativity, communication, collaboration, and digital literacy. These competencies align with the 21st-century skills required for success. However, the implementation of CBC has faced challenges such as limited infrastructure, resources, and teacher training in some schools. Yet, its success requires teachers to be competent in designing learning activities that support the development of these skills. The postgraduate programme would benefit learners in several ways. First, as technology continues to advance, there is a growing need for professionals with the expertise to design and implement effective learning solutions that use innovative strategies. By offering this programme, OUK will contribute to building Kenya's skilled workforce that is equipped to meet the demands of the modern economy. Second, the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of distance learning and remote work; this programme would enable learners to develop the skills necessary to design effective online learning platforms and distributed work environments. Third, there is a significant demand for learning design and technology professionals in Kenya and globally, and by introducing this program, the OUK will attract learners from the country and beyond interested in pursuing the profession. Finally, the programme would be beneficial because it would provide learners with a well-rounded experience combining theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Goal: The goal of the Postgraduate Diploma in Learning Design and Technology (PGDLD&T) is to prepare professionals to learn how to create and implement effective learning experiences on digital platforms. The programme will serve varied audiences in diverse learning and performance contexts for practical learning analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation of learning resources. This will be achieved through engaging in courses focused on learning theories, strategies, and prevailing technologies culminating in a capstone project, where learners will apply learning principles toward real-life issues. Upon completion of the programme, graduates will be equipped with the competencies and proficiencies to contribute to, advocate for, and provide leadership in innovative learning and performance products and services in their professional settings.