In Course ReDesign Academy faculty complete initial online modules (Stage 1) prior to engaging with peers in live discussions, either in-person or online (Stage 2). See a sample CRA schedule here.
Stage 1:
In our self-paced Online Preparation Modules, you identify key goals for your course ReDesign, consider the types and modes of learning you want for your students, connect with your peers, and review strategies for planning and assessing course assignments.
Stage 2:
In the Collaborative Workshop meetings, you join 10-12 of your Mason colleagues for a set of hands-on, project-based events to ReDesign a cornerstone assignment, explore opportunities and challenges for your course, and create your overall course revision plan in a collaborative, supportive environment.
Final Portfolio
Participants in CRA complete a final portfolio that demonstrates their skill at three crucial parts of course design:
- Structuring information and assignments that align with learning outcomes and faculty priorities
- Designing course activities that engage all students and enable learning that aligns with key goals
- Anticipating challenges to teaching and learning and using course design elements to maximize gains and minimize obstacles
Participants generally do not have a completed course plan at the end of CRA, but they have engaged with the major structural questions and identified next steps that will lead to a successful course.