LSI

Module Specification

Science of Adult Education

Module Specification

Science of Adult Education: Transform Learning with Innovative Insights


Traditional educational paradigms often struggle to adapt to rapidly advancing technologies. At the intersection of learning science and AI, this module stands as a beacon for educators seeking to navigate and flourish in this evolving environment. It recognises that learning is no longer confined to conventional paradigms but is a multifaceted landscape shaped by the demands of the digital age.

You will explore a comprehensive curriculum that includes the psychology of adult learning, focusing on cognitive and technical skill acquisition. This module delves into a range of teaching and learning methods, offering comparisons between tried-and-tested approaches and emerging AI-driven techniques. Engage with the challenges and opportunities arising from educational technology, including design processes that inform innovative pedagogical strategies.

This module promises to sharpen your educational acumen and expand your professional toolkit. By understanding how technology can be harnessed to transform education, you will gain the ability to influence and inspire learners in impactful ways. Prepare to break new ground, leading the charge into a future where learning transcends traditional boundaries and fosters profound growth.



Prerequisites and Co-requisites

None

Learning Outcomes

Code Attributes developed Outcomes
LO1 Knowledge and Understanding Conceptual understanding of current theories and models of adult learning and instructional design in the context of changing higher education landscapes
LO2 Knowledge and Understanding Differentiate diverse adult education methodologies and their effectiveness within different educational environments.
LO3 Intellectual Skills Deconstruct traditional pedagogical approaches to facilitate the design of innovative AI-centric educational models
LO4 Intellectual Skills Evaluate emerging educational technologies using established learning science principles
LO5 Technical/Practical Skills Evaluate educational technologies based on different learning styles
LO6 Professional/Transferable Skills Plan the deployment of educational technologies in diverse settings

Content Structure

Week Topic
Week 1 Introductory lecture
Introduces the module, outlining its relevance to the field and connections to other topics. It provides an overview of the content structure, key references, and assessment details.
Week 2 Learning Theories
An exploration of the established theories that underpin adult learning, focusing on the concepts that inform current practices.
Week 3 Contemporary Approaches to Learning
Flexible and student-centred experiences shaped by technology, collaboration, and real-world relevance that emphasise critical thinking, autonomy, and adaptation over rigid instruction or passive knowledge absorption.
Week 4 Adult Learning Psychology
An examination of the mental processes involved in adult learning with an emphasis on knowledge acquisition and retention.
Week 5 Cognitive Development
This chapter discusses the cultivation of cognitive abilities in adults, shedding light on how professionals can expand their intellectual capacity.
Week 6 Curriculum Design
An overview of how design thinking principles can be employed to innovate effective courses, focusing on learner-centric and outcome-focused approaches.
Week 7 Teaching Frameworks
A comparative analysis of various educational techniques and pedagogical methods ranging from conventional classroom settings to disruptive online and AI-driven platforms.
Week 8 Assessment Methods
This chapter delves into the historical tapestry of assessment theories, reflecting on how knowledge and skills attainment can be measured.
Week 9 Education Technology
This chapter will explore how EdTech can transform learning, teaching, and assessment methodologies and their effects this has on learning outcomes. It will also provide insight into the integration of online platforms and AI technologies in education, examining their strengths and potential in redefining learning experiences.

Student Workload

The methods of teaching and learning for this module are based on the School's Short-course 5 teaching system, consisting of the following activities.

Activity
Introductory lecture
Concept learning (knowledge graph)
AI formative assessment
Case Study Review
Independent reading, exploration and practice
Total:

Teaching and Learning Methods

Activity Description
Introductory lecture

This is the first weekly session, dedicated to providing a comprehensive introduction to the module. The module leader will present an overview of the subject, elucidating its importance within various digital engineering professions and its interrelation with other modules. Students will need no preparation ahead of attending this session.

The module leader will provide a structured breakdown of the content to be covered in the subsequent 9 sessions. Students will also receive an outline of the essential reference materials, alongside suggestions for supplementary reading. The format and criteria for the summative assessment will be delineated, followed by a dedicated period for questions and answers.

A recording of the session will be available to facilitate async engagement for any other student who missed the class, also offering an opportunity to review the content again.
Concept learning (knowledge graph)

Our institution's approach to teaching is primarily based on flipped learning. Ahead of each weekly session (Workshop/Lab), students will be required to study the essential concepts that are used in the coming session so they are familiar with the theories and ideas related to that session. The study material will be in the form of written content, illustrations, pre-recorded lectures and tutorials, and other forms of content provided through the AGS.

This content is self-navigated by the students, accommodating different learning styles and schedules, allowing students to watch or listen to them at their own pace and review them as needed.
AI formative assessment

Once each concept of the theory is studied, students will be prompted to engage in formative assessment with instant AI feedback. They include multiple-choice questions, socratic questions and answers, written questions, role-play and other AI-assisted practice scenarios.

The purpose of this automated formative assessment is to provide students with immediate feedback on their understanding of module material and highlight any areas that need support or further study. They are also used to track student progress, boost motivation and promote accountability.
Case Study Review

In this learning activity, students explore recent real-world case studies relevant to their course topic. The case studies will have been selected and curated by the module leader to represent up-to-date examples. They guide students through key details, contextual factors, and outcomes. This approach enhances students' understanding of current industry trends, challenges, and solutions, preparing them for real-world scenarios they may encounter in their future careers.

The learning experienced will be augmented by AI (virtual private tutor) allowing the students to critically engage with the content and discuss the case studies.
Independent reading, exploration and practice

This activity challenges students to engage with the reference material and independently explore and analyse academic literature related to the course topic. Students are expected to select relevant sources, practice critical reading skills, and where applicable technical skills, and synthesise information from multiple references. This is an opportunity to enhance research abilities, critical thinking, and self-directed learning skills while broadening and deepening subject knowledge.

Module Approval

Stage Version Date of approval Authority Chair Revalidation
Compliance 1.0 Academic Board Dr Paresh Kathrani
Pre-Teaching 1.0 Director of Education Dr Paresh Kathrani
Note: The information detailed within this record is accurate at the time of publishing and may be subject to change.
Module Spec: Science of Adult Education: Transform Learning with Innovative Insights (LS71)