Humanizing learning for all: Considerations for large-dcale online design initiatives

This chapter examines the complexities associated with achieving large scale change in online learning in a way that is humanizing for all stakeholders. Whilst rapid changes in online learning over the past decade have resulted in a more personalized and inclusive learning experience for students, leaders of these initiatives often fail to put in place strategies to ensure the change process itself is a humanizing one for those involved, including academic leaders and educators. Part of the reason for this is arguably the increasing and pragmatic need to achieve outcomes within short timeframes; this is compounded by the diverse skill base, influences and perceptions of individuals involved in changes of this kind. This chapter examines these complexities and offers strategies for humanizing large scale change in online learning following lessons learned from the Online Course Innovation project, a faculty-based initiative to redesign over 280 subjects in a two-and-a-half-year timeframe.